2020 Ford Ranger XLT Review: A Truck That Still Rocks!

by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT, a truck that's been making waves in the mid-size pickup truck segment. Is it still a top contender? Does it hold up against the competition? Let's find out! This review will cover everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if the Ford Ranger XLT is the right truck for you. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Ford Ranger XLT 2020: Overview

Alright, let's kick things off with a general overview of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. The XLT trim sits comfortably in the middle of the Ranger lineup, offering a sweet spot between affordability and features. You're getting a good balance of comfort, capability, and tech without breaking the bank. The 2020 model year brought some minor updates, building on the Ranger's successful re-introduction in 2019. The Ranger aimed to capture the hearts of truck enthusiasts who wanted a smaller, more fuel-efficient option without sacrificing the ruggedness and utility of a traditional pickup. The XLT trim really shines when it comes to value. You get a lot of bang for your buck, offering a blend of practical features and modern technology. Think of it as the Goldilocks of the Ranger family—not too basic, not too fancy, just right. One of the standout features is its powerful engine, which provides plenty of grunt for everyday driving and towing. The Ranger is also known for its comfortable ride and surprisingly agile handling for a truck. Inside, the XLT offers a well-designed cabin with user-friendly controls and comfortable seating. It's a truck that's just as capable of handling your daily commute as it is tackling off-road adventures or hauling gear. Overall, the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT is a versatile and appealing option in the mid-size pickup truck market. It’s a great choice for those who need a capable truck without the bulk of a full-size pickup. With its blend of performance, comfort, and features, the Ranger XLT continues to be a favorite among truck buyers. The XLT is often the go-to for those who want a truck that can do it all, from work to play, without emptying their wallets. And honestly, for a mid-size truck, it really does deliver. So, if you're in the market for a mid-size pickup, the Ford Ranger XLT is definitely worth a closer look.

Key Features and Specs

Let's break down some of the key features and specs that make the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT stand out. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that packs a serious punch. This turbocharged four-cylinder engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering a solid 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. That means plenty of power for accelerating, towing, and tackling various driving conditions. The towing capacity is also impressive, reaching up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped. This makes the Ranger XLT a capable hauler for trailers, boats, or other equipment. Inside, the XLT trim offers a well-appointed cabin with comfortable cloth seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a variety of tech features. You'll find an 8-inch touchscreen display with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to easily integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and hands-free calling. The XLT also comes with a range of standard safety features, such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist, providing added peace of mind on the road. The exterior of the Ranger XLT features a rugged and modern design, with a bold front grille, muscular fenders, and a functional bed. The truck's dimensions make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while still providing ample cargo capacity. The suspension system is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, both on and off-road. The XLT also offers a variety of optional features, allowing you to customize your truck to fit your specific needs and preferences. These options include things like off-road packages, upgraded audio systems, and advanced driver-assistance features. The Ranger XLT really does offer a compelling package of performance, technology, and capability, making it a strong contender in its class.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about the fun stuff: the performance and driving experience of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is the star of the show here. It offers impressive power, especially for a mid-size truck. You'll feel a surge of acceleration when you hit the gas, making it easy to merge onto highways or pass slower vehicles. The 10-speed automatic transmission is also a key player, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission helps optimize the engine's power delivery, resulting in a more enjoyable driving experience. The Ranger XLT handles surprisingly well for a pickup truck. The steering is precise, and the truck feels composed on the road. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, providing a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The truck’s size makes it easy to maneuver in both city and off-road conditions. For those who enjoy venturing off the beaten path, the Ranger XLT offers impressive off-road capability. With its available four-wheel-drive system and optional off-road packages, the truck can handle challenging terrain with ease. Features like a Terrain Management System and electronic locking rear differential enhance its off-road prowess. The towing capacity of the Ranger XLT is another highlight. It can tow up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it a capable workhorse. Whether you're hauling a trailer for work or taking your boat to the lake, the Ranger XLT has you covered. The engine provides plenty of torque for pulling heavy loads, and the transmission ensures smooth and controlled towing. The fuel efficiency of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT is also noteworthy. The EcoBoost engine delivers good gas mileage for a truck in its class, helping you save money at the pump. The combination of performance, handling, and capability makes the Ranger XLT a joy to drive. It offers a well-rounded driving experience that appeals to a wide range of drivers, from those who need a truck for work to those who enjoy outdoor adventures. The Ranger XLT is a reliable and capable vehicle that delivers a satisfying driving experience every time.

Engine and Transmission

Let’s dive a bit deeper into the heart of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT – its engine and transmission. As mentioned earlier, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is the standard engine for the XLT trim. This engine is a turbocharged inline-four cylinder, which might sound small for a truck, but don't let the size fool you. It generates a robust 270 horsepower and a very healthy 310 lb-ft of torque. The torque is particularly important as it provides the pulling power needed for towing and hauling. This engine is known for its quick acceleration and responsiveness, making the Ranger feel peppy both around town and on the highway. The engine's turbocharging adds to the fun, providing a boost of power when you need it. Paired with this engine is a 10-speed automatic transmission. This is a key component that contributes significantly to the driving experience. The 10-speed transmission is designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes, optimizing the engine's performance. The transmission constantly seeks the best gear for the current driving conditions, maximizing fuel efficiency and providing ample power. The multiple gears also help with towing, providing a wide range of ratios to handle different loads and terrains. This combination of the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and the 10-speed automatic transmission delivers a well-balanced performance. It offers strong acceleration, smooth gear changes, and good fuel economy for a mid-size truck. The engine and transmission work seamlessly together, making the Ranger XLT a pleasure to drive, whether you're commuting to work or tackling a weekend adventure. This powertrain is one of the Ranger’s strongest assets, providing a blend of power and efficiency that’s hard to beat in its class. In short, the engine and transmission work together to give you a great driving experience.

Towing and Payload Capacity

When it comes to the real work, let's talk about the towing and payload capacity of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. The Ranger XLT is a mid-size pickup, but it’s still more than capable when it comes to hauling and towing. The towing capacity of the Ranger XLT, when properly equipped, reaches an impressive 7,500 pounds. This means you can easily tow trailers, boats, campers, or other equipment, making it a versatile choice for both work and play. The towing capacity is a significant selling point, making the Ranger XLT a practical option for those who need a capable truck. The payload capacity is also notable. The payload refers to the maximum weight the truck can carry in its bed. For the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT, the payload capacity varies depending on the configuration and options, but it generally ranges from around 1,500 to 1,800 pounds. This means you can load up the bed with tools, materials, or other cargo without exceeding the truck's weight limit. The payload capacity makes the Ranger XLT a great choice for contractors, DIY enthusiasts, or anyone who needs to transport heavy items. These capacities are made possible by a combination of the engine's power and the truck's robust construction. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine provides plenty of torque to pull heavy loads, while the truck's frame and suspension are designed to handle the weight. The Ranger XLT also includes features that enhance its towing capabilities, such as a trailer sway control system, which helps keep the trailer stable while driving. The truck’s overall design is engineered to deliver a balance of capability and comfort, so you can enjoy a smooth driving experience even when hauling heavy loads. The 2020 Ford Ranger XLT delivers impressive towing and payload capacities, making it a versatile and capable truck for a variety of tasks.

Interior and Technology

Let’s step inside and check out the interior and technology of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. The XLT trim offers a comfortable and functional cabin that's designed to make your driving experience enjoyable. The interior is well-laid-out, with easy-to-use controls and a focus on practicality. You'll find comfortable cloth seats that provide good support, even on longer drives. The seats offer enough adjustments to fit various body types, ensuring a comfortable driving position. The cabin also provides ample headroom and legroom, so you won’t feel cramped, whether you’re in the front or the back. The dashboard features a clean and modern design, with a prominent touchscreen display as the centerpiece. The XLT comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen that runs Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system is known for its user-friendliness and responsiveness. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You can access navigation, stream music, and make calls hands-free through the system. Below the touchscreen, you'll find easy-to-reach climate controls and other physical buttons. These controls make it easy to adjust settings without taking your eyes off the road. The technology features in the Ranger XLT are impressive. You'll find a variety of driver-assistance features, such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. These features enhance safety and make driving easier, especially in crowded environments. The XLT also includes a variety of convenient features, like multiple USB ports, a power outlet, and available options like a premium audio system and a navigation system. The overall feel of the interior is practical and durable, with quality materials used throughout. The cabin is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use, while also providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The interior of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT blends practicality, comfort, and technology to create a versatile and appealing package. It’s a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or heading out on an adventure.

Infotainment System and Features

Let's zero in on the infotainment system and features found in the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. The heart of the infotainment system is the 8-inch touchscreen display. This screen is the central hub for all your entertainment and connectivity needs. The Ranger XLT runs Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, which is known for its intuitive interface and responsiveness. The system provides quick access to a range of features. One of the standout features is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to easily integrate your smartphone into the system. You can access your phone’s apps, navigation, music, and contacts directly on the touchscreen. This makes it easy to stay connected and entertained while on the go. The infotainment system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music from your phone and make hands-free calls. The system’s voice control functionality is a major plus, letting you control various features using voice commands. This is particularly useful for making calls, changing music, or adjusting navigation settings, minimizing distractions while driving. You'll also find a variety of USB ports and a power outlet, providing convenient ways to charge your devices. Optional features include a premium audio system, which enhances the sound quality of your music, and a built-in navigation system. The user interface is easy to navigate, with clear menus and large icons. The system is designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to quickly access the features you need without a steep learning curve. The infotainment system in the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT offers a good blend of technology and usability. It provides the connectivity and entertainment features that modern drivers expect, all while being easy to use. The system enhances the overall driving experience, making it more convenient and enjoyable.

Comfort and Design

Now, let's talk about the comfort and design of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT's interior. The XLT trim strikes a good balance between practicality and comfort. The seats are a key element here. They are upholstered in durable cloth, and the front seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The seating position is well-thought-out, providing good visibility and easy access to the controls. The design of the cabin is functional, with a focus on ease of use. The dashboard and center console are well-organized, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The layout is intuitive, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time figuring out how to use the different features. The materials used throughout the interior are of good quality, providing a sturdy and durable feel. While the XLT trim doesn’t have the luxurious touches of higher trims, the materials are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. You'll find plenty of storage space in the cabin. There are convenient storage compartments, including a center console bin, door pockets, and a glove compartment, to keep your belongings organized. The design incorporates a practical approach, with thoughtful touches like easy-to-clean surfaces. This makes it easy to maintain the interior in good condition, whether you use your truck for work or leisure. The overall design creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making the Ranger XLT a pleasant place to spend time. The cabin is designed to provide a comfortable driving experience, whether you're commuting to work or heading out on an adventure. The 2020 Ford Ranger XLT offers a well-designed and comfortable interior, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. It’s a space that's both functional and inviting.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority, so let’s review the safety features in the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. Ford equips the Ranger XLT with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard features include a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what’s behind you when you’re backing up. This feature is particularly useful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. Another important standard feature is blind-spot monitoring. This system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping you avoid collisions when changing lanes. Lane-keeping assist is another key feature. This system helps keep the truck centered in its lane, preventing unintentional lane departures. The Ranger XLT also includes a range of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide protection in the event of a collision. Stability control and traction control systems are also standard. These systems help maintain control of the vehicle in challenging driving conditions, such as slippery roads. The XLT offers a variety of optional safety features to further enhance safety. These include features like adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, which can help mitigate or prevent a frontal collision. Ford's commitment to safety is evident in the Ranger XLT. The truck is designed to provide a high level of protection in various driving conditions. With its standard and optional safety features, the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT gives you peace of mind on the road. Safety is a key component, with a good balance of standard and optional features.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Let's get into the details of trim levels and pricing for the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT. As mentioned earlier, the XLT trim sits in the middle of the Ranger lineup, offering a good balance of features and value. In addition to the XLT, the Ranger is offered in other trim levels, including the base XL and the top-of-the-line Lariat. The XL trim is the entry-level model, which is a more basic and budget-friendly option, with essential features. The XLT trim adds more features and upgrades compared to the XL, making it a popular choice for many buyers. You get the SYNC 3 infotainment system, more comfort features, and some advanced driver-assistance technologies. The Lariat trim is the most luxurious, offering premium features, leather upholstery, and additional technology. The pricing for the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT falls in a mid-range. The exact price can vary depending on the configuration, options, and location. It's important to check with your local Ford dealer for the most accurate pricing information. The XLT trim offers a compelling value proposition, providing a range of features and capability without breaking the bank. It offers a good balance between comfort, technology, and performance, making it a great choice for a wide range of buyers. The trim levels allow you to choose a model that meets your specific needs and budget. The 2020 Ford Ranger XLT offers a range of trim levels and pricing options to fit different needs and budgets. The XLT trim is a well-rounded package that offers good value for its price. The best choice depends on what you are looking for.

Pros and Cons

To make sure you're well-informed, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT.

Pros:

  • Powerful Engine: The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine provides strong acceleration and towing capability.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Ranger XLT offers good fuel economy for a mid-size pickup.
  • Comfortable Interior: The cabin is well-designed with comfortable seats and user-friendly controls.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The SYNC 3 infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use.
  • Good Value: The XLT trim offers a good balance of features and affordability.
  • Towing Capacity: Impressive towing capacity for its class.
  • Off-Road Capability: Available off-road packages enhance its capability.

Cons:

  • Limited Rear Seat Space: Rear seat space can be a bit tight for taller passengers.
  • Some Hard Plastics: The interior has some hard plastic materials.
  • Optional Features Cost Extra: Some desirable features are only available as options, adding to the price.
  • Ride Can Be Bouncy: The ride can be a bit bouncy on rough roads when unloaded.

Conclusion: Is the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT a Good Buy?

So, is the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT still a good buy? Absolutely! After a deep dive into its features, performance, and overall value, the answer is a resounding yes. The Ford Ranger XLT remains a strong contender in the mid-size pickup truck market. It’s a versatile truck that caters to a wide range of needs. The EcoBoost engine offers plenty of power, the interior is comfortable and well-equipped, and the technology features are user-friendly. The XLT trim provides a great balance of affordability and features, making it a smart choice for many buyers. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as limited rear seat space, the pros far outweigh the cons. Its impressive towing and payload capacities, combined with its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, make it a practical and enjoyable truck to own. If you’re in the market for a mid-size pickup truck, the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s a truck that delivers on its promises, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and value that’s hard to beat. Whether you need a truck for work, play, or everything in between, the Ford Ranger XLT is a solid choice. So go ahead, take a test drive, and see for yourself why this truck continues to be a favorite among truck enthusiasts. I hope this review has been helpful! Happy truck hunting!