Ford Gives Ranger Pickup Truck a Makeover

First introduced in 1983, the Ford Ranger has faithfully served as that automaker's compact pickup truck, replacing the Mazda-made Courier which Ford had used since 1972. Today, the truck is still a compact unlike some of its competitors which have been updated and grown in size. That has worked to Ford's advantage as the Ranger has the best fuel economy of any truck in its class.

The major drawback for the Ranger is that it hasn't been updated in ages. While the bigger F-Series line routinely is redone every five years, the current generation Ranger has been virtually unchanged since rolled out as a 1998 model. Though Ford isn't planning to roll out an all-new model just yet, the automaker is making some important changes to the 2010 Ranger, updates which will be included with the model when it becomes available in Ford showrooms beginning later this summer.

The two most notable changes for the 2010 Ford Ranger will be:

• AdvanceTrac(R) with RSC(R) (Roll Stability Control) -- that helps prevent skidding and dangerous rollover conditions
• The new 2010 Ranger also adds new combination side air bags - offered standard - designed for head and torso protection

Powered by a 2.3 I4 engine, the Ranger gets class leading fuel economy of 26 mpg on the highway. However, the new safety features is something that should interest buyers the most, bringing the Ranger up to the same standards as its competitors.

"The 2010 Ranger's Roll Stability Control and combination side air bag technologies will help occupants stay out of harm's way," said Steve Kozak, chief engineer of safety systems, Ford Motor Company. "The Ranger has been America's most fuel-efficient pickup, and now it features a combination of safety features not offered in any other small pickup."

The Ranger also offers safety and security equipment such as Ford's Personal Safety System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and SecuriLock passive anti-theft system, all three are included as standard equipment on every Ranger model.

Ford has plans to eventually replace the Ranger, but the interim these updates make the truck more appealing and therefore more salable. Prices have yet to be set, but the Ranger will likely continue to be one of the best priced trucks on the market.