2003 Ford Ranger in Orlando, FL - $8,205

The compact Ford Ranger pickup's high-quality, high value formula continues to succeed against an onslaught of competition. The compact Ranger combines Ford's tough-truck heritage with fuel efficiency, affordability and flexibility in a small pickup that's big on value.

The solid Ranger pickup truck is available in XL, XLT and Sport trim levels and Regular Cab and two- and four-door SuperCab configurations. The Ranger XL and XLT 4x2 and 4x4 series are equipped with stylish standard wheels and tires, and a Class III Trailer Hitch is standard across the line. The lower front-bumper valance has an integrated, 1-inch air deflector to help reduce drag and improve fuel economy. Large fog lamps provide excellent visibility and a tougher appearance.

XLT models feature body-color front and rear step bumpers as well as a chrome H-bar grille that is standard on 4x2 models for a bolder look. Sport SuperCab trucks offer standard step bars, while the Sport SuperCab 4x4 is equipped with standard skid plates to protect major components at the front, middle and rear of the truck's underbody.

Consumers have a choice of two prime movers for the compact Ford pickup -- 2.3L four-cylinder and the 4.0L V6. Gearbox options include the standard five-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic.

The Ranger's traditional body-on-frame construction serves as the foundation for the suspension hardware. The front suspension features independent unequal length control arms, coil springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. The rear suspension also includes torsion bars to its suspension configuration.

Inside the cabin, the driver has a good outward view, with well-placed displays and controls. The cab seats and floor are vinyl covered as opposed to carpet -- making the cab easy to clean. Standard equipment includes power steering, power brakes, AM/FM stereo radio with digital clock, variable intermittent wipers and two dash mounted power points. Driver instrumentation includes speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, oil pressure, volts, tachometer, water temp and fuel gauge. There is even a bit of room behind the seats in the regular cab models that fold forward for some secure storage. Handles in the "A" pillars facilitate entry and exit.

Dimensions & specifications

Regular Cab/Six foot cargo bed/2WD

Wheelbase: 111.5; overall length: 189.4; width: 69.3; height: 66.2

Regular Cab/Six foot cargo bed/4WD

Wheelbase: 111.6; overall length: 188.9; width: 70.4; height: 68.3

Regular Cab/Seven foot cargo bed/2WD

Wheelbase: 117.4; overall length: 198.4; width: 69.4; height: 66.2

Regular Cab/Seven foot cargo bed/4WD

Wheelbase: 117.6; overall length: 198.4; width: 70.5; height: 68.1

SuperCab/Six foot cargo bed /2WD

Wheelbase: 125.7; overall length: 203.6; width: 69.4; height: 66.3

SuperCab Six foot cargo bed/4WD

Wheelbase: 125.7; overall length: 203.6; width: 69.4; height: 69.4

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.3L four-cylinder -- 143 hp at 5,250 rpm and 154 lbs-ft of torque at 3,750 rpm; 4.0L V6 -- 207 hp at 5,250 rpm and 238 lbs-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual, five-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 2.3L four-cylinder – 22 city/27 hwy; 4.0L V6 – 16 city/21 hwy.

Payload capacity: 1,260 lbs.

Towing capacity: 6,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, battery run-down protection, tire pressure monitors, side-impact door beams, SecuriLock theft deterrent system, traction control and Advance Trac roll stability control. 4WD adds full-size spare tire. XLT adds fog lights, and remote keyless entry.

Optional safety features include limited slip axle and power code remote engine start system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Ford Ranger compact pick-up truck starts from $17,935 for the XL Regular Cab 2WD upto $26,025 for the Sport SuperCab 4-door 4WD. Destination charges add $820.