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Buyer’s Guide for the 2023 Ford Ranger (New Zealand Edition)

Updated 25 September 2022

For those who want a capable and livable compact pick-up that can do it all, the 2023 Ford Ranger is a popular choice throughout New Zealand. This is the vehicle that can handle workplace duties along with daily drives and weekend adventures. In this buyer’s guide we will take a look at everything that you need to know about the 2023 Ford Ranger.

Our guide covers:

What’s new?

The 2023 Ford Ranger is all new. That means you are going to see a completely different appearance both inside and out. Some of the most notable updates is a wide stance and the ability for the bed to accommodate “Euro Pallet” sized cargo. Additionally, the 2023 Ford Ranger introduces a new zone lighting feature that allows you to illuminate various areas around the exterior of the vehicle thanks to the Ranger’s array of LED lights. Finally, the 2023 Ford Ranger introduces a performance-focused Raptor trim level. 

Ranger - Pros and Cons

There are a number of reasons why the Ford Ranger is so popular. Here’s a look at the top reasons you should put this popular SUV at the top of your shopping list.​

Pros:

1. Easy to live With

You will find that the Ford Ranger is one of the most friendly and livable pick-ups on the road today. If you are simply looking for a pick-up for daily drives and occasional cargo hauling, then the 2023 Ford Ranger is going to be ideal for you. Additionally, this pick-up is really excellent when it comes to fuel economy. 

2. Advanced Technology

The Ford Ranger also has some of the most advanced tech features in its class. That includes a vertically mounted infotainment screen, a new zone lighting system, and an embedded modem. 

3. Many Engine Options

Finally, you have several excellent engine options to accommodate what you need. If you are looking for big fuel economy when you can elect for the standard 2.0-litre bi-turbo engine. However, if you want to get more power for workplace duties, then you can get the Ford Ranger with the more powerful 3.0-litre V-6 turbo engine. The all-new Raptor model includes a EcoBoost twin-turbo variant of the 3.0-litre V-6 engine. Finally, the 2023 Ford Ranger also offers a 2.0-liter diesel engine option.​​
Cons:
While the Ford Ranger is one of the most sought-after SUVs in its class, there are some potential downsides to consider. Here are some reasons why the Ford Ranger may not be for you. 

1. Limited cargo space

Because this is a compact pick-up truck, you will have to live with the fact that cargo space will be limited. Therefore, you will only want to consider the Ford Ranger if you are not looking to do any major hauling. 

2. Limited towing

Also, you should expect the Ford Ranger to be modest when it comes to towing. With the most powerful engine, you can tow up to 3,500kg. Therefore, this may not be the pick-up for you if you are looking to haul a large boat or camper. 

3. Not a serious off-road vehicle

Finally, the Ford Ranger is not designed to handle the toughest roads and trails out there. Sure, you will be comfortable over dirt roads and trails. However, you don’t want to tackle large inclines with this truck. 

Standard Ranger Features

1. Powertrain

The 2023 Ford Ranger comes standard with a 2.0-litre bi-turbo engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and 4x2 or 4x4 capability. There is also the more powerful 3.0-litre V-6 engine that includes a 10-speed automatic transmission, e-shifter, and an electronic park brake. Finally, there is the available 2.0-litre SI diesel engine.
 
All models also include six drive modes which help you handle a variety of terrain.
 
  • Normal - This model is designed for everyday use.
  • Eco - This model helps to maximize fuel efficiency.
  • Tow Haul - This model optimizes gear shift timing to help you handle hauling and towing duties.
  • Slippery - The engine and the transmission works with the Ford Stability System to reduce wheel spin.
  • Mud/ruts - This model helps to maximize grip during launch to allow for better movement in muddy conditions.
  • Sand - Optimizes power delivery and gear shifts to handle soft sand and heavy snow conditions. 

2. Tech features

The 2023 Ford Ranger offers a number of technology upgrades to make it one of the most advanced vehicles in its class. At the centerpiece of the tech system is the vertically mounted infotainment screen. There is also an embedded modem that allows you to stay connected with real-time internet access and navigation information. Other top tech features included wireless charging which allows you to charge compatible devices by simply placing it on the charging pad. Also available is a smart climate control system that allows you to control various zones within the cabin. 

3. Comfort and Convenience Features

You will also find a number of popular comfort and convenience features inside the 2023 Ford Ranger. That includes a rear box side step which makes it easy to access the bed of the truck. Other notable features include the foldable rear seats as well as fully reclining front seats. Finally, the Rage includes a Zone Lighting system which allows you to illuminate specific areas around the vehicle. 

4. Trim levels

For the 2023 model year, the Toyota Rav4 is available in the following trim levels:
  • XL - Ideal for worksite duties.
  • XLT - Includes many popular features and provides lots of value.
  • Sport - Comes with the more powerful 3.0-litre V-6 engine,
  • Wildtrak - Includes a unique grille and various appearance and tech upgrades.
  • Raptor - This performance model comes with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V-6.

5. Safety Features

The 2023 Ford Ranger comes with a number of standard safety features including  
Forward Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Automatic Emergency Braking, and Rearview Camera. Additionally, the base XL model comes with all-weather tires for better traction and control. 

Upper trim levels offer enhanced safety features such as Auto High-Beam Headlamps, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Rear-Cross Traffic Alert in the Ford Co-Pilot 360. 

Finally, all Ford Ranger models come with a suite of airbags including driver and front passenger airbags, side skirt airbags, and front knee airbags. 

6. Reliability Ratings

The Ford Ranger has received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal.com. Overall, the Ford Ranger ranks 3rd out of 7 vehicles in its category. Also, the Ford Ranger has a lower-than-average repair cost. 

7. New Zealand Awards

The Ford Ranger also pulls in NZ Company Vehicle Magazine’s Ute of the Year and NZ4WD Magazine’s 4WD Ute of the Year. Additionally, the Ford Ranger has won the Automobile Association and Motoring Writers’ Guild award for Best in Class mid-size Truck.

8. Worldwide Awards

The Ford Ranger has won the Vincentric 2022 Best CPO Value Award. Also, the Ford Ranger has ranked second in its segment in J.D. Power's 2022 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS).

Resale Value of Previous Models

Ford Rangers are popular in New Zealand. Therefore, you may be wondering what the resale value of a 2023 Ford Ranger may be in the future. To assist you, here is a look at the current values of Ford Ranger vehicles from previous model years.
 
NOTE: The following data was compiled from average values found on AutoTrader.co.nz. Also note that the exact retail price of a vehicle will vary according to a number of factors including mileage, condition, accident history, number of owners, and the trim level. 
  • 2021 - A 2021 Ford Ranger Wildtrak X with 55,000km is available for around $64,000. 
  • 2020 - A 2020 Ford Ranger XLT with 88,000km is available for around $57,000.
  • 2019 - A 2019 Ford Ranger Wildtrak with 76,000km is available for around $55,000
  • 2018 - A 2018 Ford Ranger Sport with 43,000km is available for around $47,000.
  • 2017 - A 2017 Ford Ranger Sport with 80,000km is available for around $43,000

Frequently Asked Questions

​Chances are that you may have some more questions about the 2023 Ford Ranger. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions. 

What is the recommended trim level?

The Ford Ranger Sport trim offers you the ideal combination of standard features and value pricing. ​​

Who is the Ford Ranger ideal for?

The 2023 Ford Ranger is an ideal choice for those who want a pick-up truck for daily driving as well as weekend adventures. While the Ford Ranger can handle some workplace duties, it is not recommended for heavy towing and hauling. 

What is the average price of the Ford Ranger in New Zealand?

The starting price for the 2023 Ford Ranger in New Zealand is $46,990. A well-equipped Ford Ranger Sport model will cost about $60,000. Bear in mind that the actual pricing may be higher if the current chip shortage continues to persist. 

Are 2023 Ford Ranger models hard to find in New Zealand?

Ford has a strong dealer network in New Zealand and the Ford Ranger is a top-volume vehicle. Therefore, you should not have an issue finding a Ford Ranger in one of the most popular trim levels. 
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