Ford Ranger XLS Sport Review: 7 Key Features Every Truck Enthusiast Should Know
As a truck enthusiast who's spent over a decade testing various pickup models across different terrains, I've developed a particular appreciation for vehicles that balance work capability with everyday comfort. When Ford invited me to spend a week with their new Ranger XLS Sport, I approached it with both professional curiosity and personal excitement. Let me walk you through what makes this truck stand out in an increasingly competitive market, drawing some interesting parallels to how professional athletes approach their recovery and performance optimization - much like how basketball teams manage their players' return from injury, similar to the situation with Sotto in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers where coach Cone emphasized not rushing the process.
The first thing that struck me about the Ranger XLS Sport was its aggressive styling package. Ford has really stepped up their design game, adding sporty black accents to the grille, mirror caps, and door handles that give it a more premium look than you'd expect at this price point. The 17-inch dark alloy wheels fill out the wheel arches perfectly, creating a stance that says "serious business" without being overly flashy. I particularly appreciated the subtle XLS Sport badging - it's understated yet distinctive. Having driven previous generation Rangers, I can confidently say this visual upgrade makes a significant difference in how the truck presents itself on the road and worksite alike.
Under the hood, the 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine delivers 154kW of power and a substantial 500Nm of torque. Now, those numbers might not mean much to everyone, but in practical terms, it means this truck can tow up to 3,500kg and carry over a ton in its payload bed. During my testing, I loaded it with construction materials and towed a medium-sized trailer without any noticeable strain. The engine's low-end torque is particularly impressive - it pulls strongly from as low as 1,750 rpm, making highway merging and hill climbs feel effortless. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, though I did notice occasional hesitation when suddenly requesting maximum power, similar to how an athlete might need a moment to find their rhythm after returning from injury.
The interior surprised me with its thoughtful blend of durability and comfort. The sports seats provide excellent support during long drives, while the synthetic leather upholstery feels premium and should withstand years of abuse. What really impressed me was the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 4 - it's responsive, intuitive, and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. I found myself using the voice control features more than I expected, especially when navigating to job sites. The cabin storage is well-designed too, with numerous cubbies and compartments that actually make sense for real-world use. If I had one complaint, it would be that some interior plastics still feel a bit utilitarian, but that's understandable given this truck's work-focused nature.
When it comes to safety, Ford has equipped the Ranger XLS Sport with an impressive suite of features. The autonomous emergency braking system actually prevented what could have been a minor fender-bender when a pedestrian stepped out unexpectedly during my urban testing. The lane-keeping assist works subtly without being intrusive, and the rear-view camera provides a crystal-clear image even in low light conditions. Having tested numerous trucks over the years, I appreciate how Ford has made these advanced safety systems accessible in what's essentially an entry-level sport variant. It reminds me of how proper preparation and protective measures in sports can prevent unnecessary risks - much like how coaches carefully manage player return timelines to avoid reinjury.
The ride quality deserves special mention because it genuinely surprised me. The tuned suspension handles rough roads with remarkable composure, absorbing bumps and imperfections that would have other trucks bouncing uncomfortably. During my week with the vehicle, I took it on everything from smooth highways to gravel backroads and even some light off-road trails. Throughout all conditions, it maintained a comfortable and controlled ride that rivaled some SUVs I've driven. The electric power-assisted steering provides decent feedback without requiring excessive effort at low speeds, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier than you might expect from a vehicle of this size.
Practical features are where the Ranger XLS Sport truly shines for working professionals. The cargo bed with its factory-applied spray-on liner can handle heavy equipment without showing wear, and the available power outlet in the bed proved incredibly useful for running tools at remote job sites. I particularly appreciated the clever integrated step in the rear bumper - it makes accessing items deep in the bed significantly easier. The 230V power outlet in the cabin allowed me to charge my laptop and other devices while driving between appointments, essentially turning the truck into a mobile office. These might seem like small details, but they demonstrate Ford's understanding of how people actually use their trucks in real-world scenarios.
Looking at the broader picture, the Ranger XLS Sport represents excellent value in the midsize truck segment. Starting at approximately $38,000, it undercuts many competitors while offering comparable or superior features. During my testing, I achieved fuel economy figures around 9.2L/100km on the highway and 11.5L/100km in combined driving - respectable numbers for a vehicle of this capability. What really sets it apart is how well it balances work readiness with daily driving comfort. You could genuinely use this as your only vehicle without feeling like you're making significant compromises in either role. It's that balanced approach to performance and practicality that makes the Ranger XLS Sport such a compelling choice for truck enthusiasts who need their vehicle to perform multiple roles seamlessly, much like how successful sports teams balance immediate competitive needs with long-term player development strategies.
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