Hey guys! Thinking about grabbing a 2021 Ford Ranger but feeling a bit lost in all the different models? No sweat! I'm here to break it all down for you in a way that's easy to understand. We'll dive into the details of each trim level, so you can figure out which Ranger is the perfect fit for your needs and your wallet. Whether you're looking for a basic work truck, a comfortable daily driver, or an off-road beast, Ford has a Ranger for you. So, let's get started and compare the 2021 Ford Ranger models!

Overview of the 2021 Ford Ranger

The 2021 Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a great blend of capability, comfort, and technology. It's a popular choice for those who need a truck that's easy to maneuver in the city but still tough enough to handle weekend adventures. The 2021 model year brought some minor updates, including new paint colors and some shuffling of available options packages. But the core of the Ranger remains the same: a reliable and versatile truck that's ready for anything.

Under the hood, all 2021 Rangers come with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and efficient shifting. You can choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) on most trim levels, depending on your needs and preferences. And with a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Ranger can handle a variety of tasks, from hauling trailers to boats.

Inside, the Ranger offers a comfortable and functional cabin with a range of available features. Depending on the trim level, you can get things like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, leather seats, and advanced safety technologies. The Ranger is available in two body styles: SuperCab (extended cab) and SuperCrew (crew cab). The SuperCab has a smaller rear seat and smaller rear doors, while the SuperCrew offers more space for passengers in the back. There are also two bed lengths available: a 5-foot bed and a 6-foot bed. The bed length you get will depend on the cab style you choose.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's take a closer look at each of the 2021 Ford Ranger trim levels.

2021 Ford Ranger Trim Levels

The 2021 Ford Ranger comes in three main trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat. Each trim level offers a different set of features and equipment, so it's important to understand the differences before making a decision. Let's break down each trim level in detail:

Ford Ranger XL

The XL is the base model of the 2021 Ford Ranger. Don't let the "base" label fool you, though. It still offers a good amount of standard equipment and capability. The XL is a great option for those who need a reliable work truck or a budget-friendly daily driver. It comes standard with features like:

• 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine
• 10-speed automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive (4WD optional)
• Electronic Stability Control
• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Four-speaker audio system
• Air conditioning
• Power windows and locks

While the XL is the base model, it still offers a lot of value for the money. The standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a big plus, as it allows you to easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking is also a great safety feature to have, as it can help prevent accidents. For those on a budget, the XL trim represents an excellent entry point into the Ranger lineup.

However, the XL is definitely more basic than the other trim levels. It has a more utilitarian interior with cloth seats and fewer creature comforts. It also lacks some of the advanced safety features and technology that are available on the higher trims. But if you're looking for a no-frills truck that can get the job done, the XL is a solid choice.

Ford Ranger XLT

The XLT is the mid-level trim of the 2021 Ford Ranger. It builds upon the XL by adding more features and equipment, making it a more comfortable and convenient daily driver. The XLT is a good choice for those who want a truck that's both capable and comfortable. In addition to the features found on the XL, the XLT adds:

• Ford Co-Pilot360 (includes Blind Spot Information System, Lane-Keeping System, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert)
• Automatic high beams
• Reverse sensing system
• Cruise control
• Six-speaker audio system
• Upgraded cloth seats
• Alloy wheels
• Fog lamps

The XLT trim offers a significant upgrade in terms of safety and convenience features. The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety technologies is a big plus, as it includes features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features can help you stay safe on the road and avoid accidents. The addition of cruise control and a reverse sensing system also makes the XLT more comfortable and convenient for daily driving.

The XLT also gets some visual upgrades, such as alloy wheels and fog lamps. These features give the truck a more stylish and modern look. Inside, the upgraded cloth seats provide a more comfortable seating experience. Overall, the XLT is a great value for the money, as it offers a good balance of features and price.

If you're looking for a truck that's more than just a basic work truck, the XLT is definitely worth considering. It offers a more comfortable and convenient driving experience, as well as a range of advanced safety features. The XLT is a popular choice among Ranger buyers, and it's easy to see why.

Ford Ranger Lariat

The Lariat is the top-of-the-line trim of the 2021 Ford Ranger. It offers the most luxurious and feature-rich experience, with a range of premium amenities and advanced technologies. The Lariat is a good choice for those who want a truck that's both capable and comfortable, with all the bells and whistles. In addition to the features found on the XLT, the Lariat adds:

• Leather seats
• Heated front seats
• Power-adjustable front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Push-button start
• 8-inch touchscreen with navigation
• 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
• LED headlights and taillights
• Chrome exterior trim

The Lariat trim offers a significant upgrade in terms of luxury and convenience features. The leather seats, heated front seats, and power-adjustable front seats provide a more comfortable and upscale driving experience. The dual-zone automatic climate control allows you and your passenger to set your own individual temperature preferences. The push-button start is a convenient feature that allows you to start the truck without having to insert a key.

The Lariat also gets a major upgrade in terms of technology. The 8-inch touchscreen with navigation makes it easy to find your way around, and the 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system provides a premium audio experience. The LED headlights and taillights provide better visibility and give the truck a more modern look. The chrome exterior trim adds a touch of elegance.

If you're looking for the ultimate Ranger experience, the Lariat is the way to go. It offers a level of luxury and features that you won't find on the lower trims. The Lariat is perfect for those who want a truck that's both capable and comfortable, with all the latest technology and amenities.

Key Differences Between the Trims

To make it easier to compare the different trim levels, here's a table that highlights the key differences:

Choosing the Right Trim

So, which 2021 Ford Ranger trim is right for you? It really depends on your needs, budget, and preferences. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

• XL: If you're looking for a basic work truck or a budget-friendly daily driver, the XL is a good choice. It offers a lot of value for the money, with standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen and Pre-Collision Assist.
• XLT: If you want a truck that's both capable and comfortable, the XLT is a great option. It adds a range of safety and convenience features, such as Ford Co-Pilot360, cruise control, and a reverse sensing system.
• Lariat: If you're looking for the ultimate Ranger experience, the Lariat is the way to go. It offers a level of luxury and features that you won't find on the lower trims, such as leather seats, heated front seats, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which trim is right for you is to visit your local Ford dealer and take a test drive. This will give you a chance to experience the different features and see which trim fits your needs the best. Don't be afraid to ask questions and compare prices. With a little research, you can find the perfect 2021 Ford Ranger for you!

Happy truck hunting, and I hope this comparison has been helpful in making your decision! Remember to always prioritize your needs and budget when choosing a vehicle. Good luck!