2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4: A Comprehensive Review

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2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4: A Comprehensive Review

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4, a mid-size pickup truck that's been making waves in the market. This review will cover everything you need to know, from its rugged off-road capabilities to its comfortable interior and practical features. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious about this popular truck, you're in the right place. Let's get started, shall we?

Unveiling the Ford Ranger XLT FX4: A First Look

So, what exactly is the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4? Well, it's a trim level of the Ford Ranger, known for its blend of everyday usability and off-road prowess. The XLT trim sits in the mid-range of the Ranger lineup, offering a balance of features and affordability, while the FX4 package adds a significant dose of off-road capability. This combo makes the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 a versatile truck, equally at home on city streets and rugged trails. The 2022 model year saw some updates to the Ranger, including a few cosmetic tweaks and feature enhancements to keep it competitive in a crowded segment. One of the first things you'll notice about the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is its bold and muscular stance. It's a truck that means business, with a design that emphasizes its capability. The front end features a prominent grille, flanked by sharp headlights that give it a modern look. The FX4 package adds unique touches like skid plates, off-road shocks, and an electronic locking rear differential, all of which contribute to its off-road performance. The Ranger XLT FX4 comes in a SuperCrew configuration, which means you get four full doors and ample space for passengers in the rear. This makes it a practical choice for families or anyone who regularly carries passengers. The bed size is also generous, providing plenty of space for hauling cargo. Overall, the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 presents a compelling package for those seeking a mid-size truck that can handle both daily driving duties and weekend adventures. It's a truck that's built to work and play, and it offers a good balance of features, capability, and value. The exterior design is functional and stylish, with a rugged appearance that hints at its off-road potential. With a robust build and carefully selected features, the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 has successfully carved a niche for itself in the highly competitive truck market. The design makes the truck stand out from its competitors. The exterior also includes off-road-oriented features such as skid plates to protect the undercarriage from damage. These are all part of the FX4 package, and they increase the truck's off-road capabilities. It also has features such as an electronic locking rear differential, which provides added traction in challenging terrains. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is more than just a truck; it is a statement about capability and design.

Interior and Features: Comfort and Tech Combined

Alright, let's hop inside and take a look at what the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 has to offer in terms of comfort and technology. The interior of the Ranger XLT FX4 is a pleasant place to be, offering a comfortable and functional environment. You'll find a well-designed cabin with quality materials and a layout that's easy to navigate. The XLT trim level provides a good selection of features, including cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, and the rear seats offer enough space for adults. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a clear display and intuitive controls. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The Ranger XLT FX4 also comes equipped with a range of other features, such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. These safety features enhance your driving experience and provide added peace of mind. For those who need to stay connected, the Ranger XLT FX4 offers multiple USB ports and available Wi-Fi hotspot. Other available features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Overall, the interior of the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is well-appointed and comfortable, with a good balance of features and technology. It's a space that's designed to make your daily commute and weekend adventures enjoyable. Ford has made sure to provide an intuitive layout, the infotainment is responsive, and the quality of materials is high. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 interior is a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering a well-rounded and practical vehicle. This enhances the overall driving experience. In addition, the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 has excellent storage options. The cabin provides ample space for storing small items, such as smartphones, wallets, and water bottles. The center console is large enough to hold a variety of items, and the door pockets are also generously sized. These storage solutions add to the overall practicality of the truck. This makes it an ideal option for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile truck.

Driving Experience and Performance: On and Off the Road

Now, let's talk about the driving experience and performance of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4. This is where the FX4 package really shines, providing enhanced off-road capability. Under the hood, the Ranger XLT FX4 is powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which produces a healthy amount of power and torque. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine provides brisk acceleration and ample power for everyday driving. On the road, the Ranger XLT FX4 handles well, with responsive steering and a comfortable ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys. The 10-speed transmission contributes to the overall efficiency, helping the truck achieve respectable fuel economy figures. The FX4 package adds a layer of off-road prowess. Features like the skid plates, off-road shocks, and electronic locking rear differential work together to enhance its ability to tackle challenging terrain. The electronic locking rear differential improves traction on slippery surfaces. The Ranger XLT FX4 has impressive ground clearance, allowing it to navigate over obstacles with ease. The truck's four-wheel-drive system provides added confidence, even in difficult conditions. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 performs admirably both on and off the road. The engine provides ample power, the suspension offers a comfortable ride, and the FX4 package enhances its off-road capability. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring rugged trails, the Ranger XLT FX4 is a capable and enjoyable vehicle. The inclusion of modern safety features enhances the driving experience. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 offers a smooth and controlled driving experience. The steering is responsive and the truck maneuvers well. Whether it’s everyday driving or tackling adventurous terrains, the Ranger XLT FX4 provides a blend of comfort, capability, and performance. The powertrain is well-suited to the demands of daily driving. The transmission ensures smooth gear changes and a refined overall driving experience. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is a versatile and reliable choice, making it a top contender in the mid-size truck segment. The combination of power, capability, and comfort makes it a pleasure to drive.

Off-Road Capabilities: FX4 in Action

Let's delve deeper into the off-road capabilities that make the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 stand out. The FX4 package is what truly sets this truck apart, transforming it into a capable off-road machine. This package includes a variety of features designed to enhance its performance in challenging terrains. One of the most important components of the FX4 package is the electronic locking rear differential. This system locks the rear wheels together, ensuring that they both receive equal power. This is particularly helpful in situations where one wheel has lost traction, such as when climbing a steep hill or navigating a muddy trail. The FX4 package also includes a set of skid plates. These plates protect the underbody of the truck from damage. They cover critical components like the engine, transmission, and fuel tank. The off-road suspension on the Ranger FX4 is another key element of its off-road prowess. It provides increased ground clearance and improved articulation, allowing the truck to tackle obstacles with ease. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and jolts, keeping the ride comfortable even on rough terrain. Additionally, the FX4 package includes off-road shocks that are designed to handle the stresses of off-road driving. These shocks provide superior damping, improving stability and control. The Ranger FX4 also features an electronic shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system. This allows you to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive with the push of a button. The system provides added traction when needed, enhancing the truck's capability on slippery surfaces or in challenging conditions. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is a versatile and capable truck. The FX4 package equips the Ranger with the necessary features to tackle a variety of off-road challenges. The combination of all these elements makes the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 a formidable off-road vehicle.

Trim Levels and Pricing: What's the Value?

So, what about trim levels and pricing? The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 sits in the middle of the Ranger lineup, offering a good balance of features and value. The base price for the XLT trim is typically more affordable than the higher-end Lariat and Wildtrak trims, making it a popular choice for many buyers. The exact pricing can vary depending on the configuration and options chosen, but the XLT trim generally provides a good bang for your buck. When considering the value, it's important to look at the features you're getting for the price. The XLT trim includes a range of features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. These features enhance your driving experience and add convenience. The FX4 package adds to the overall value of the XLT trim. It brings in off-road capabilities that justify the added cost. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is a competitively priced mid-size truck. You get a good set of features and the off-road capability that comes with the FX4 package. When comparing the Ranger XLT FX4 to other trucks in its class, it often comes out as a strong contender in terms of value. The overall cost can depend on the options and packages you select. The XLT trim offers a good balance of features, performance, and price, making it a compelling choice. If you're looking for a mid-size truck that offers a good blend of everyday usability and off-road capability without breaking the bank, the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is definitely worth considering. It provides excellent value, especially when compared to its competitors. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 provides a good value proposition. It strikes a good balance between features, performance, and price. The pricing makes it accessible to a wider range of buyers.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

  • Off-Road Capability: The FX4 package significantly enhances off-road performance, making it a capable truck for adventures. It has features like the electronic locking rear differential and skid plates.
  • Comfortable Interior: The cabin is well-designed, with comfortable seats and a user-friendly layout. It features a range of convenient features.
  • Practical Features: The Ranger XLT FX4 offers a good selection of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system.
  • Value: The XLT trim with the FX4 package offers a good balance of features and value, making it an attractive option for many buyers.

Cons:

  • Engine Performance: While the EcoBoost engine provides adequate power, some may find it less powerful than V6-equipped rivals.
  • Fuel Economy: Fuel economy may not be the best in its class, though it's still respectable.
  • Ride Quality: While comfortable, the ride can feel a bit rough on certain surfaces due to the off-road suspension.

Conclusion: Is the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 Right for You?

So, after taking a look at the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4, what's the verdict? This truck is a well-rounded and capable mid-size pickup that offers a good blend of everyday usability and off-road performance. The XLT trim level provides a good mix of features and affordability, while the FX4 package adds a significant dose of off-road prowess. If you're looking for a truck that can handle both city driving and weekend adventures, the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is definitely worth considering. It's a versatile vehicle that offers a comfortable interior, practical features, and capable off-road performance. If you need a truck for off-road use, then the FX4 is a must-have. However, if you're not planning on doing much off-roading, you might consider other trims or competitors that prioritize fuel economy or on-road comfort. Overall, the Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is a solid choice for those who want a capable and versatile mid-size pickup truck. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and value, making it a popular choice in its segment. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is an excellent choice for a variety of drivers. It offers a great blend of capability, comfort, and value. The truck makes a bold statement. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 offers a compelling package for those seeking a mid-size truck that excels in both work and play. It is a well-rounded and versatile option. The Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is a reliable and capable truck that combines practicality, performance, and value. This makes it a great choice for various buyers.