The Reigning Champion: Why the 2025 Ford Ranger is North America's Truck of the Year

When it comes to new trucks in 2025, one midsize contender has captured the crown and the headlines: the 2025 Ford Ranger. Named North American Truck of the Year, the Ford Ranger 2025 delivers a fresh take on a proven platform—blending capability, innovation, and practicality into one award-winning package. For buyers searching for the best midsize truck of 2025, the answer might just be riding on a blue oval.

In this in-depth 2025 Ford Ranger review, we’ll unpack the reasons why this pickup truck claimed the top spot, explore every key aspect from engine performance to infotainment, and help you decide if the 2025 Ranger belongs in your driveway. Whether you're after raw power, daily comfort, off-road grit, or tech-savvy convenience, this truck has something for everyone.

Why Did the 2025 Ford Ranger Win North American Truck of the Year?

The North American Truck of the Year (NACTOY) is one of the most prestigious awards in the automotive world. Voted on by an independent jury of automotive journalists from the U.S. and Canada, the award recognizes excellence in innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, and value. The Ford Ranger North American Truck of the Year jury voting favored the Ranger over tough competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado.

Why? Because the 2025 Ranger is a standout in every category.

“The new Ranger delivers class-leading capability with a refined interior and a broad range of trims, including the wild Raptor edition,” said NACTOY juror Jack Nerad in a statement.

What’s New in the 2025 Ford Ranger?

If you're wondering what’s new in the 2025 Ford Ranger, the answer is: quite a lot.

From the ground up, the Ranger has been redesigned with a bolder exterior, a modernized interior, and new Ford Ranger features for 2025 that elevate its usability and driving enjoyment. The truck is now built on a revised version of Ford's T6 platform and shares global DNA with the international Ranger and Ford Everest SUV.

Exterior Redesign

The 2025 Ford Ranger exterior now boasts a more aggressive front fascia, C-shaped LED headlamps, a taller hood, and widened wheel arches. It looks muscular and ready for anything—from suburban streets to rugged trails.

Interior Updates

Inside, the 2025 Ford Ranger interior has received a major tech-focused overhaul. The cabin includes a vertically-oriented 10.1- or 12-inch touchscreen running SYNC 4A, a fully digital instrument cluster, and available leather-trimmed seats. Storage and ergonomics have been vastly improved—making it not just functional, but comfortable.

Engine Options and Performance

Under the hood, the 2025 Ford Ranger engine lineup gives you flexibility, power, and off-road muscle. Here's what buyers can expect:

• 2.3L EcoBoost I4: Standard engine producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
• 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Optional upgrade (borrowed from the F-150 and Bronco) with 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.
• 3.0L V6 in the Ranger Raptor: A beastly 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, ideal for off-roading and high-speed desert runs.

All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

2025 Ford Ranger horsepower and torque figures put it ahead of many in the midsize truck category, giving it best-in-class performance in multiple trims.

Towing & Payload Capacity

For those asking, how much can the 2025 Ford Ranger tow—Ford delivers strong numbers:

• Towing capacity: Up to 7,500 pounds, depending on configuration
• Payload capacity: Up to 1,805 pounds

These specs make it an ideal choice for weekend warriors, contractors, and overlanding adventurers alike.

Trim Levels: XL, XLT, Lariat, and Raptor

Whether you need a workhorse or a trail-dominating machine, 2025 Ford Ranger trim levels offer something for everyone:

• XL: The entry-level option with modern tech and utility
• XLT: A balanced choice with upgraded features and looks
• Lariat: Premium finishings, leather interior, advanced safety tech
• Raptor: Off-road king with Fox Live Valve shocks, full-time 4WD, and serious power

Buyers comparing the Ford Ranger vs. Tacoma or Colorado will notice the Raptor edition is in a class of its own—offering full-sized truck power in a midsize frame.

Technology & Safety

The 2025 Ford Ranger technology suite impresses even in its base trim. Features include:

• SYNC 4A infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Over-the-air updates
• Available 360-degree camera
• Digital gauge cluster

When it comes to Ford Ranger safety features, drivers get:

• Ford Co-Pilot360 with adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring (with trailer coverage)
• Lane-keeping system
• Automatic emergency braking

This focus on safety helped the truck achieve top marks in crash testing and overall safety ratings.

Driving Impressions: On-Road and Off-Road

So, is the 2025 Ford Ranger good for daily driving?

Absolutely. Thanks to a quieter cabin, refined suspension, and intuitive tech, this pickup truck rides more like an SUV than a commercial rig. Daily commuters will appreciate its smooth acceleration, excellent visibility, and confident road manners.

For those asking about the 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor off-road capabilities, this is where the truck separates from the pack. The Raptor includes:

• 33-inch BFGoodrich KO3 tires
• Fox Live Valve shocks
• Front and rear locking differentials
• Terrain Management System with Baja mode

Dimensions and Practicality

The Ford Ranger dimensions 2025 provide a perfect middle ground between compact and full-sized trucks. Key measurements:

• Wheelbase: 128.7 inches
• Overall Length: 210.6 inches
• Width (w/mirrors): 86.7 inches
• Bed Length: 5 feet or 6 feet (model dependent)

This makes it nimble in tight spaces but versatile enough for gear hauling and road trips.

Price and Release Date

Although already available at dealerships, people still search 2025 Ford Ranger release date, so here’s the scoop:

• Release Date: Spring 2024 (available now)

Now let’s answer the common question: How much does the 2025 Ford Ranger cost?

2025 Ford Ranger price range:

• XL: Starting at $32,670
• XLT: From $35,610
• Lariat: Around $43,630
• Raptor: From $55,470

These prices are competitive in the midsize truck segment and deliver outstanding value considering the features and performance.

Fuel Economy and Reliability

Efficiency matters too, especially in the pickup truck world.

2025 Ford Ranger fuel economy estimates:

• 2.3L EcoBoost: 21 city / 26 highway MPG
• 2.7L EcoBoost: 19 city / 24 highway MPG
• Ranger Raptor: 16 city / 20 highway MPG

When it comes to 2025 Ford Ranger reliability, early owner feedback and testing suggest this truck is built to last, thanks to Ford’s rigorous quality controls and shared components with the proven F-150.

Pros and Cons of the 2025 Ford Ranger

Let’s break it down for those still asking: Should I buy the 2025 Ford Ranger?

Pros:

• Award-winning design and capability
• Wide range of trims, including high-performance Raptor
• Tech-forward cabin and safety
• Best-in-class towing and power options
• Impressive off-road hardware

Cons:

• Fuel economy on Raptor model is lower
• Higher trims can get pricey
• No hybrid or electric options (yet)

How Does the 2025 Ford Ranger Compare?

Buyers often search: Ford Ranger vs. Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger vs. Chevy Colorado, and the Ranger holds its own.

Compared to the Tacoma, the Ranger offers more modern tech, better towing, and superior cabin comfort.

Against the Colorado, the Ranger feels more refined and delivers more horsepower in base trims.

Where Is the 2025 Ford Ranger Built?

For those interested in manufacturing pedigree: The 2025 Ford Ranger is built in Wayne, Michigan, at the Michigan Assembly Plant—an investment Ford has doubled down on to support this new generation.

Final Verdict: The Midsize Truck to Beat

There’s a reason the 2025 Ford Ranger earned its title as North American Truck of the Year. It delivers where it counts—performance, technology, safety, and value—while offering trims and options that serve nearly every kind of driver. Whether you’re commuting to work, towing a trailer, or going full-send off-road, this truck can do it all.

Interested in learning how to protect your new Ford Ranger from unexpected repairs and maintenance costs? Check out Noble Quote’s Learning Center for tips, extended warranty information, and expert advice on vehicle protection plans.