2022 Ford Ranger Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The Ford Ranger temporarily disappeared from the North American market after the 2011 model year. This was during a time when big SUVs and larger trucks dominated sales. That version of the Ranger was a compact truck, loved for its toughness and off-road capabilities. The Ranger wasn't the only smaller truck to disappear from an automaker's lineup during this period. As smaller cars and crossover SUVs began to rule the market, automakers seemed to realize that there's a place for smaller pickup trucks too.

Ford brought back the Ranger in 2019, this time as a mid-size truck that was bigger than before but still small enough to fit between their F-150 lineup. The 2022 Ford Ranger is upping the ante with multiple body style and option choices - plus they're offering an extra special Splash Package inspired by its '90s heyday! With bold graphics and dynamic paint schemes, it looks like Ford has created something truly offbeat for modern drivers looking to make waves on (and off) –the road.

The 2022 Ford Ranger is redefining what it means to be a capable truck. With three trim levels, ranging from the entry-level model with best-in class features and technology, through to the luxurious Lariat offering increased comfort and convenience - if you’re looking for an impressive hauling capacity or offroad performance capabilities – then this is your ride!

Compare the XL vs XLT Trim Levels. What Is the Difference?

The base model of the 2022 Ford Ranger is called the XL. The next trim level up from the XL is called the XLT. All three trim levels are available in Ford's SuperCab and SuperCrew configurations. The SuperCrew has very little room behind the front seats. There are two small doors that open backward for entry and exit.

The SuperCrew body style has four full-size doors and a normal backseat area. It can comfortable seat two adults behind the driver and front passenger. Every trim level offers the choice of a 6-foot or 5-foot cargo box. Every model can also be had in either a 4X2 rear-wheel drive or 4X4 all-wheel drive variation.

The latest Ford model comes with an impressive 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, modernizing the driving experience like never before. This powerful four-cylinder direct injection system is packed full of technology to ensure a more enjoyable ride - from its 16 free breathing valves and Start/Stop Technology for increased fuel efficiency, to the twin scroll turbocharger that provides a whopping 270 horsepower and 310 pound feet of torque.

The Ford Ranger is designed to provide efficient performance on any road. With fuel efficiency of up to 26 miles-per-gallon, it has an 18 gallon tank for maximum mileage providing a reliable driving experience. It also features the advanced SelectShift 10 speed automatic transmission across all trim levels ensuring smooth operation and control over every journey.

The XL and XLT have an independent front suspension and an available locking rear differential. The rear suspension uses parabolic leaf springs. There are coil springs up front and gas shock absorbers up front and in the rear. The 4X4 models get an electronic Shift-On-the-Fly feature. Switching from 4X2 to 4X4 mode is as easy as turning a dial.

Every trim level of the Ford offers drivers ultimate control with its Terrain Management System. Easily switch between four different driving modes to optimize your acceleration and shift points for each unique situation you encounter on the road – all while enjoying better braking performance thanks to four-wheel, ABS disc brakes. For colder climates, an engine block heater is available as well.

The 2022 Ford Ranger has Electronic Power-Assist Steering and a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame. There are ball-mounting provisions in the rear bumper as well as 4-pin wiring for towing a trailer. The XL and XLT offer the same optional accessories. A spray-in bed liner, mud flaps, pickup-box extender and pixelated graphics can all be added on to either trim level. A keyless-entry keypad can also be added to the driver's side of the truck.

With the Ford Ranger, you have a range of options to choose from. The XL model features 16-inch steel wheels with an eye-catching silver paint scheme while its cousin - the XLT - is fitted out with 17 inch aluminum rims plus additional optional wheel upgrades for added flair. To top it off, you can pair your pick up truck look with either a cross bed toolbox or tonneau cover – whatever fits right in.

The Ford Ranger offers two distinct trim levels. The XL comes equipped with manual-locking tailgate, black front and rear bumpers, halogen headlights featuring an automatic on/off feature as well as daytime running lamps - ideal for night time driving. For those who prefer a little extra personalization the XLT features power-locking tailgate chrome trimmed exhaust tip plus body colored door handles and fog lights to add further style while practicality remains king thanks to cargo bed lightings in both models of the Ranger.

The XL and XLT have distinct exterior designs, with the former having a black mesh grille framed by a black surround while the latter sports carbon-style meshing encased in silver. For added convenience, windows on both trims are power operated but those opting for an upgrade can access defrosting features exclusive to XLTs. Interiors of each trim vary too, where manual air conditioning/heating systems reside within all XLSs; however if you opt for an upper tier model then Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control System becomes your climate control companion ensuring optimum comfort at any speed.

There are cloth bucket seats up front for the base trim level. These have 8-way manual adjustments for the driver's seat and 6-way manual adjustments for the front-passenger seat. The XLT models get the same, but with premium cloth upholstery and extra options such as suede trim.

As for the entertainment and multimedia features, the XL has a basic AM/FM stereo and four speakers. The XLT gets Ford's SYNC 3 Infotainment System with an 8-inch touchscreen display, a more powerful stereo and six speakers. Both truck models have Bluetooth streaming capabilities. A voice-activated navigation system and SiriusXM satellite radio are available for the XLT.

There's a 2.3-inch productivity screen located within the gauge cluster of the XL trim. This is enlarged to a 4.2-inch screen for the XLT. The floor inside of the XL is black vinyl, which is actually quite easy to clean. The XLT gets carpeted floors with matching floor mats. If this is primarily a work truck, many buyers will prefer the vinyl.

All three trim levels of the 2022 Ford Ranger have Ford's Co-Pilot 360 Technology. This includes a Forward-Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking. A Blind-Spot Information System and Lane-Keep Assist are added on to the XLT trim level, while they're only optional for the XL. Both get a Tire-Pressure Monitor.

The driver and front passenger get front and seat-mounted, side airbags on all models. There are also side-curtain airbags. Ford equips all models of the Ranger with tethers for child safety seats. All models have a rear-view camera and child-proof rear-door locks. Ford's AdvanceTrac System has Roll Stability Control and Curve Control.

There's a passive anti-theft system in the XL and a perimeter anti-theft alarm for the XLT. The XLT also gets a remote, keyless-entry system. Both models of the Ranger have Ford's SOS Post-Crash Alert System™ as part of the Co-Pilot 360 Technology.

Ford offers drivers the freedom to craft a unique ride with customizable packages. The base trim level includes an STX Special Edition Package, featuring 17-inch glossy black wheels for added style, plus Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control and SYNC 3 Infotainment System for optimal comfort and convenience. For those who crave offroad or all weather driving adventures, Ford also provides access to its 4x4 All Wheel Drive package across every model.

For those looking for an adventurous ride, the XLT trim level offers a unique Tremor Off-Road Package. With features such as Trail Control and Terrain Management System technologies along with magnetic-painted alloy wheels, custom running boards and tow hooks - you'll be ready to tackle any terrain! Plus choose from optional painted graphics to take your style off the beaten path.

Compare the XLT vs Lariat Trims. What Is the Difference?

The top trim level for the 2022 Ford Ranger is called the Lariat. Ford uses a lot of these same trim-level designations for all of their trucks. Mechanically, a stock Lariat is no different from a stock XLT model. It has the same engine, transmission system, suspension and drive-train options. All of the remaining mechanical features and the performance specs are identical here as well.

The Lariat has 18-inch, machined-aluminum wheels with Stealth-Gray painted pockets. All of the exterior lights, the headlights, taillights and fog lamps are now LED models. The exterior of the Lariat gets some extra chrome trim. The outside mirrors are now power adjustable and power folding. They also now automatically come with the heating feature for easy defrosting.

The Lariat once again gets the Ford Co-Pilot 360 Technology. This time, a Reverse Sensing System and Forward Sensing System get added on. These features provide an audible alert when the systems detect an object in front or back of the vehicle that the driver might not be able to see. The seats get upgraded to 8-way, power-adjustable seats with leather-trimmed upholstery.

With the Lariat, drivers can enjoy a host of enhanced safety features and driver-assist technology carried over from the XLT while upgrading their sound system to include an option by Bang & Olufsen for premium audio.

The Lariat offers a number of features to make it stand out - including the Splash Package, inspired by 1990s era graphics. If you're looking for something more subtle and sophisticated, consider opting forthe Black Appearance Package. From 18-inch black aluminum wheels with unique center caps all the way down to small details like mirror caps or even an eye-catching grille adorned with its name - no stone has been left unturned when it comes this luxurious package.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Ford Ranger will appeal to a lot of different buyers for a lot of different reasons. There are so many choices here that there is no easy, clear-cut answer to this question of which trim to choose. Unless this is purely a secondary work vehicle, then most buyers will be better off with a SuperCrew model instead of the SuperCab version. The small backseat area of the SuperCab really only works for children or maybe an adult for very short periods of time. It's not very easy getting in and out of the backseat area, either.

Choosing the right truck for your needs can be a daunting task. Finding the perfect size, powertrain and trim package to fit both your budget and use case is key. For many people who don't mind spending extra money for added luxury, we recommend considering one of Ford's higher-end models - like their Lariat variant! Offering superior comfort levels than its lower trims along with convenience features designed to make life easier; it's definitely worth going that route if you're able.

Want the ultimate off-road experience? The XLT Ranger with Tremor Package is just what you need! This set of performance upgrades gives you impressive all-terrain capabilities—from shocks to suspension, tires and beyond. Tackle any rough terrain - no matter which trim level selected, your adventures are sure to be unforgettable in this amazing truck.