The Ford Ranger is America’s original compact truck. In this article, we’ll cover the Ford Ranger towing capacity by year – from 1983 to the 2025. We’ll compare how much the Ford Ranger can haul based on engine options and rear-wheel vs four-wheel drive. We’ll also look at the current trim levels available for the 2025 Ford Ranger. There’s a lot to cover, so we’ll break it up into sections.
- 2020 – 2025 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
- 2010 – 2019 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
- 2000 – 2009 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
- 1990 – 1999 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
- 1983 – 1989 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
But before we begin, a big shout-out to Dezo’s Garage. Their website is the best for finding old automotive brochures. We gathered much of the info for this blog post from Dezo’s database of brochures. Check them out! Ok, let’s begin.
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity from 2020 to 2025
2025 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2025 Ford Ranger has three engine options and three drivetrain options. Not all engines are available with all drivetrains. Max tow ratings all require the optional trailer towing package.
The 2.3-liter four-cylinder Ecoboost engine allows 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain configurations. Both drivetrain configurations provide a 7500 lb maximum loaded trailer weight.
The 2.7L V-6 Ecoboost engine is only available with the 4×4 drivetrain. The maximum towing capacity with this configuration is 7,500 lbs.
The 2025 Ranger Raptor model comes with a full-time 4×4 drivetrain (AWD) and a 3.0L Ecoboost engine. The Raptor has a max towing capacity of 5510 lbs.
2024 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2024 Ford Ranger towing capacity is the same as the new 2025 model year. It has three engine options and three drivetrain options. Not all engines are available with all drivetrains. Max tow ratings all require the optional trailer towing package.
The 2.3-liter four-cylinder Ecoboost engine allows 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain configurations. Both drivetrain configurations provide a 7500 lb maximum loaded trailer weight.
The 2.7L V-6 Ecoboost engine is only available with the 4×4 drivetrain. The maximum towing capacity with this configuration is 7,500 lbs.
The 2024 Ranger Raptor model comes with a full-time 4×4 drivetrain (AWD) and a 3.0-liter Ecoboost engine. The Raptor has a max towing capacity of 5510 lbs.
2023 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2023 Ford Ranger came with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. With either drivetrain configuration, 4×2 or 4×4, the max towing capacity is 7500 lbs. Trailer towing package is required.
2022 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2022 Ford Ranger came with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. With either drivetrain configuration, 4×2 or 4×4, the max towing capacity is 7500 lbs. Trailer towing package is required.
2021 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2021 Ford Ranger came with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. With either drivetrain configuration, 4×2 or 4×4, the max towing capacity is 7500 lbs. Trailer towing package is required.
2020 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2020 Ford Ranger came with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. With either drivetrain configuration, 4×2 or 4×4, the max towing capacity is 7500 lbs. Trailer towing package is required.
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity from 2010 to 2019
2019 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2019 Ford Ranger represented a rebirth for the popular truck. A new engine came standard, and with that, higher tow ratings. The 2019 Ranger came with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. With either drivetrain configuration, 4×2 or 4×4, the max towing capacity is 7500 lbs. Trailer towing package is required.
For more detailed info on the tow capacity of the 2019 Ford Ranger, visit TowCapacityGuru.com.
2011 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2011 Ford Ranger was the final model before a seven-year hiatus. Available engines included a 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 4.0-liter V6.
With the 4×2 drivetrain and the 2.3l engine, a manual transmission had a max tow rating of 1500 lbs, while an automatic transmission had a max tow rating of 2160 lbs.
When the 4.0L engine was paired with the 4×4 drivetrain, a manual transmission had a max towing rating of 3340 lbs, and an automatic was 5960 lbs. To achieve the max tow rating with an automatic transmission, a regular cab was required.
The 4×4 model only came with the 4.0l engine. The tow rating with a manual transmission was 3,100 lbs, while with an automatic transmission, it was 5,560 lbs.
2010 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2010 Ford Ranger had two available engines – a 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 4.0-liter V6.
With the 4×2 drivetrain and the 2.3l engine, a manual transmission had a max tow rating of 1540 lbs, while an automatic transmission had a max tow rating of 2200 lbs.
When the 4.0L engine was paired with the 4×4 drivetrain, a manual transmission had a max towing rating of 3300 lbs, and an automatic was 5940 lbs. To achieve the max tow rating with an automatic transmission, a regular cab was required.
The 4×4 model only came with the 4.0l engine. The tow rating with a manual transmission was 3,080 lbs, while with an automatic transmission, it was 5,540 lbs.
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity from 2000 to 2009
2009 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2009 Ford Ranger had two available engines – a 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 4.0-liter V6.
With the 4×2 drivetrain and the 2.3l engine, a manual transmission had a max tow rating of 1580 lbs, while an automatic transmission had a max tow rating of 2240 lbs.
When the 4.0L engine was paired with the 4×4 drivetrain, a manual transmission had a max towing rating of 3400 lbs, and an automatic was 6000 lbs. To achieve the max tow rating with an automatic transmission, a regular cab was required.
The 4×4 model only came with the 4.0l engine. The tow rating with a manual transmission was 3,140 lbs, while with an automatic transmission, it was 5,600 lbs.
2008 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2008 Ford Ranger offered three engine options: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 4.0-liter V6.
With the 4×2 drivetrain and the 2.3L engine, the manual transmission had a maximum tow rating of 1,580 lbs, while the automatic reached 2,240 lbs.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 configuration offered 2,640 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 2,600 lbs with an automatic. To achieve these ratings, a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gears were required.
When the 4.0L engine was used in a 4×2 setup, the manual transmission allowed for a 3,400-lb tow rating, while the automatic transmission boosted that to 6,000 lbs. A regular cab was required to reach the max rating with the automatic.
In 4×4 models, the 3.0L V6 had slightly lower towing capabilities—2,360 lbs with a manual and 2,320 lbs with an automatic.
The 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup provided a 3,280-lb towing capacity with a manual transmission and 5,740 lbs with an automatic, with the regular cab being required to hit that maximum.
2007 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2007 Ford Ranger offered three engine options: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 4.0-liter V6.
With the 4×2 drivetrain and the 2.3L engine, the manual transmission had a maximum tow rating of 1,580 lbs, while the automatic reached 2,240 lbs.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 configuration offered 2,640 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 2,600 lbs with an automatic. To achieve these ratings, a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gears were required.
When the 4.0L engine was used in a 4×2 setup, the manual transmission allowed for a 3,380-lb tow rating, while the automatic transmission boosted that to 6,000 lbs. A regular cab was required to reach the max rating with the automatic.
In 4×4 models, the 3.0L V6 had slightly lower towing capabilities—2,320 lbs with a manual and 2,300 lbs with an automatic.
The 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup provided a 3,260-lb towing capacity with a manual transmission and 5,720 lbs with an automatic, with the regular cab being required to hit that maximum.
2006 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2006 Ford Ranger lineup featured three engine choices: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6.
In rear-wheel drive (4×2) models equipped with the 2.3L engine, the towing capacity was rated at 1,580 lbs with a manual transmission and 2,260 lbs with an automatic.
For those opting for the 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 configuration, the manual transmission allowed for 2,660 lbs of towing, while the automatic slightly dropped to 2,620 lbs. Achieving these figures required a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gearing.
With the 4.0L V6 in a 4×2 setup, the towing capacity climbed to 3,400 lbs for manuals and 6,000 lbs for automatics. As with previous years, reaching that top rating with an automatic required a regular cab.
Four-wheel drive (4×4) Rangers with the 3.0L engine saw slightly reduced tow ratings—2,340 lbs with the manual and 2,320 lbs with the automatic.
The most capable 4×4 configuration was the 4.0L V6, rated at 3,220 lbs with a manual transmission and 5,680 lbs with an automatic, provided the truck had a regular cab.
2005 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2005 Ford Ranger continued to offer a choice of three engines: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6.
With the 2.3L engine in a 4×2 configuration, towing capacity was rated at 1,600 lbs for the manual transmission and 2,260 lbs with the automatic.
Stepping up to the 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 model provided a slight increase in capability—2,640 lbs with a manual and 2,600 lbs with an automatic. These ratings required a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle ratio.
For maximum towing in a 4×2 setup, the 4.0L V6 was the top choice. It was rated at 3,400 lbs for the manual and 5,980 lbs for the automatic, though no specific cab or axle requirements were listed.
In 4×4 models with the 3.0L V6, the manual transmission allowed for 2,340 lbs of towing, while the automatic dipped slightly to 2,300 lbs.
The 4.0L V6 paired with 4×4 delivered stronger performance—3,220 lbs with the manual and up to 5,660 lbs when equipped with an automatic transmission.
2004 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2004 Ford Ranger came with familiar engine options: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, each offering different levels of towing capability depending on drivetrain and transmission.
In the 4×2 models with the 2.3L engine, towing capacity was 1,580 lbs with a manual and 2,240 lbs with an automatic transmission.
The 3.0L V6 paired with a 4×2 drivetrain bumped those numbers to 2,660 lbs for the manual and 2,620 lbs for the automatic, assuming the truck had a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gears.
Choosing the 4.0L V6 in a 4×2 setup gave the highest ratings in that category—3,400 lbs with a manual and 5,860 lbs with an automatic—but required a SuperCab and 3.55 gears to reach those figures.
In 4×4 configurations, the 3.0L V6 delivered 2,340 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 2,300 lbs with an automatic.
The 4.0L V6 in 4×4 form offered a 3,100-lb capacity with a manual and 5,660 lbs with an automatic transmission, though reaching the max required a regular cab.
2003 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2003 Ford Ranger was offered with the standard trio of engines: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, each delivering varied towing performance based on configuration.
In the 4×2 models, the 2.3L engine allowed for 1,640 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 2,240 lbs with an automatic.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 setup improved those figures to 2,640 lbs for the manual and 4,100 lbs for the automatic. Achieving these numbers required a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gears.
For the 4.0L V6 in 4×2 models, 5,940 lbs is the max towing capacity.
In 4×4 variants with the 3.0L V6, the manual transmission allowed for 2,360 lbs of towing, while the automatic jumped to 3,820 lbs. A regular cab was required to hit these numbers.
The most capable 2003 Ranger was the 4×4 with the 4.0L V6, which offered a towing capacity of 3,280 lbs with a manual and 5,740 lbs with an automatic, again requiring a regular cab.
2002 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2002 Ford Ranger had the same engine options as previous years – a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 4.0-liter V6.
Any one of those three engines was available in the 4×2 drivetrain configuration. Only V6 engines were available for 4×4 models.
Max towing capacity for the 2002 Ford Range is somewhat ambiguous. A 4×2 with a regular cab has a max towing capacity of 3610 lbs. A 4×4 with a regular cab has a max towing capacity of 6070 lbs.
2001 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2001 Ford Ranger had the same engine options as previous years – a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 4.0-liter V6.
Any one of those three engines was available in the 4×2 drivetrain configuration. Only V6 engines were available for 4×4 models.
Max towing capacity for the 4×2 with the 4.0L engine is 6070 lbs. A 4×4 with the 4.0L V6 has a max towing capacity of 5820 lbs.
2000 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 2000 Ford Ranger had the same engine options as previous years – a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 4.0-liter V6.
Any one of those three engines was available in the 4×2 drivetrain configuration. Only V6 engines were available for 4×4 models.
Documentation was lacking for the 2000, 2001, and 2002 model years. Max towing capacity for the four-cylinder is 1580 lbs. For the 4.0L V6, max towing capacity is 6060 lbs.
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity from 1990 to 1999
1999 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1999 Ford Ranger came with three engine options: a 2.5L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, with towing capacities varying by drivetrain and transmission.
In 4×2 models, the 2.5L engine delivered a towing capacity of 1,600 lbs with a manual transmission and 2,240 lbs with an automatic. Both required a regular cab to achieve those ratings.
Equipping the 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 setup bumped the towing capacity to 2,720 lbs with a manual and 4,000 lbs with an automatic, again requiring a regular cab.
The most powerful 4×2 option—the 4.0L V6—offered a significant increase, with 3,660 lbs of capacity for manual transmissions and 6,000 lbs for automatics. As with the others, a regular cab was needed to reach these figures.
Moving to 4×4 configurations, the 3.0L V6 towed 2,400 lbs with a manual transmission and 4,360 lbs with an automatic, which also required a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle gears.
The 4.0L V6 in 4×4 form rounded out the lineup with 3,360 lbs of towing capacity when paired with a manual, and 5,820 lbs with an automatic—both requiring a regular cab.
1998 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1998 Ford Ranger featured three engine choices: a 2.5L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, with towing capabilities determined by engine, drivetrain, and axle ratios.
In 4×2 models, the 2.5L engine offered a towing capacity of 2,200 lbs—no specific cab or axle requirements were noted.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 configuration could tow up to 4,000 lbs, provided the truck had a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gears.
With the 4.0L V6 in a 4×2 setup, towing capacity peaked at 6,000 lbs, assuming it was equipped with a regular cab and 3.55 gears.
Four-wheel drive Rangers with the 3.0L V6 had a maximum tow rating of 4,340 lbs when paired with a regular cab and 4.10 axle ratio.
The 4.0L V6 in 4×4 models delivered a strong 5,800-lb capacity, requiring a regular cab and 3.73 rear gears to reach that figure.
1997 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1997 Ford Ranger was available with three engine options: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, with tow ratings varying based on drivetrain and equipment.
In 4×2 models, the 2.3L engine had a towing capacity of 1,600 lbs with a manual transmission and 2,300 lbs with an automatic, which required a regular cab to reach that max.
The 3.0L V6 improved towing performance, offering 2,800 lbs with a manual and 4,000 lbs with an automatic. The automatic setup required both a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gears.
With the 4.0L V6 in a 4×2 configuration, the Ranger could tow 3,700 lbs when equipped with a manual transmission, and up to 6,000 lbs with an automatic—provided it had a regular cab and 3.55 axle ratio.
In 4×4 models, the 3.0L V6 delivered 2,400 lbs of towing capacity with a manual and 4,400 lbs with an automatic. To achieve the higher rating, a regular cab and 4.10 gears were required.
The 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup rounded out the lineup with a tow rating of 3,400 lbs for manual and 5,800 lbs for automatic transmissions, with a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle needed to reach those figures.
1996 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1996 Ford Ranger offered a range of towing capabilities depending on engine, drivetrain, and configuration, with three engines available: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6.
In 4×2 models with the 2.3L engine, towing was rated at 1,600 lbs with a manual transmission and 2,300 lbs with an automatic. The automatic setup required a regular cab to reach the maximum rating.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×2 configuration delivered 2,700 lbs with a manual and 4,000 lbs with an automatic. For the automatic, a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle were necessary.
When equipped with the 4.0L V6, the 4×2 Ranger offered 3,700 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and up to 6,000 lbs with an automatic, assuming a regular cab and 3.55 axle ratio.
Interestingly, a 4×4 model with the 2.3L engine was available this year, though its towing capacity was limited to 1,200 lbs.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup allowed for 2,300 lbs of towing with a manual and 4,200 lbs with an automatic. To reach the automatic rating, a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle were required.
Finally, the 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 configuration provided 3,200 lbs of towing with a manual and 5,700 lbs with an automatic, provided it had a regular cab and 3.73 rear gears.
1995 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1995 Ford Ranger continued its tradition of versatile towing capabilities, offering three engine options: a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, with variations across drivetrain and transmission setups.
In 4×2 configurations, the 2.3L engine provided a towing capacity of 1,600 lbs with a manual transmission and 2,300 lbs with an automatic. The automatic version required a regular cab to achieve that max rating.
With the 3.0L V6, the 4×2 Ranger could tow 2,800 lbs when equipped with a manual transmission and 4,000 lbs with an automatic. For the higher rating, a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle gearing were necessary.
Topping the 4×2 range, the 4.0L V6 enabled 3,700 lbs of towing with a manual and 6,000 lbs with an automatic, assuming the truck was outfitted with a regular cab and 3.55 gears.
In 4×4 models, the 2.3L engine was rated at 1,300 lbs of towing capacity, the lowest of the lineup.
The 3.0L V6 offered 2,500 lbs with a manual and 4,400 lbs with an automatic transmission. Achieving the higher figure required a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle ratio.
Finally, the 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup delivered solid towing performance—3,400 lbs with a manual and 5,800 lbs with an automatic—provided the truck came with a regular cab and 3.73 rear gears.
1994 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1994 Ford Ranger maintained its range of engine choices—2.3L inline-four, 3.0L V6, and 4.0L V6—each offering different towing capabilities depending on drivetrain and setup.
In 4×2 models, the 2.3L engine delivered a towing capacity of 1,600 lbs with a manual transmission and 2,300 lbs with an automatic. To reach the automatic’s maximum, a regular cab was required.
With the 3.0L V6, the 4×2 Ranger offered 2,800 lbs of towing with a manual and 4,000 lbs with an automatic. Hitting the 4,000-lb mark required a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle ratio.
The 4.0L V6 topped the 4×2 segment, with 3,700 lbs of capacity using a manual and 6,000 lbs with an automatic—achievable when paired with a regular cab and 3.55 gears.
For 4×4 models, the 2.3L engine was again the least capable, rated at 1,300 lbs.
The 3.0L V6 in a 4×4 configuration provided 2,500 lbs with a manual and 4,500 lbs with an automatic. The higher figure required a regular cab and 4.10 axle gearing.
The 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup remained strong, rated at 3,400 lbs with a manual transmission and 5,900 lbs with an automatic, assuming a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle were used.
1993 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1993 Ford Ranger remained consistent in its engine offerings—2.3L inline-four, 3.0L V6, and 4.0L V6—each impacting the truck’s towing capacity based on configuration.
In 4×2 setups, the 2.3L I-4 engine allowed for 1,600 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 2,300 lbs with an automatic. The automatic configuration required a regular cab to hit the maximum rating.
The 3.0L V6 increased towing capability to 2,800 lbs with a manual and 4,000 lbs with an automatic. To achieve the full 4,000 lbs, a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle were necessary.
Opting for the 4.0L V6 in a 4×2 model pushed the towing limits further—3,700 lbs with a manual and up to 6,000 lbs with an automatic, assuming the truck was equipped with a regular cab and 3.55 gears.
In 4×4 models, the 2.3L engine offered just 1,300 lbs of towing capacity, the lowest in the lineup.
With the 3.0L V6 and four-wheel drive, the Ranger could tow 2,500 lbs with a manual transmission and 4,500 lbs with an automatic, provided it had a regular cab and 4.10 axle ratio.
The 4.0L V6 in 4×4 configuration was the most capable of the year, rated at 3,700 lbs with a manual and 5,900 lbs with an automatic, both requiring a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle.
1992 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1992 Ford Ranger offered a wide range of towing capacities across its engine lineup, which included a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, a 2.9L V6 (in 4×4 only), and a 4.0L V6.
In 4×2 configurations, the 2.3L engine allowed for 1,500 lbs of towing with a manual transmission, while the automatic raised that figure to 2,700 lbs.
The 3.0L V6 increased towing capability to 2,700 lbs with a manual and 4,200 lbs with an automatic. Achieving the higher number required a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle.
With the 4.0L V6 in a 4×2 setup, maximum towing reached 3,600 lbs for manual and 6,100 lbs for automatic transmissions, provided the truck had a regular cab and 3.55 axle gearing.
In 4×4 models, the 2.3L engine had the lowest towing capacity at 1,200 lbs.
The 2.9L V6—offered only in 4WD—delivered 2,400 lbs of towing with a manual and 4,300 lbs with an automatic. The automatic version required both a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle ratio.
Finally, the 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 configuration offered 3,300 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 5,800 lbs with an automatic, assuming the truck came with a regular cab and 3.73 gears.
1991 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1991 Ford Ranger simplified its towing figures by listing single ratings per engine and drivetrain combination, rather than splitting them by transmission.
In 4×2 configurations, the 2.3L inline-four was rated for 2,900 lbs of towing capacity. Stepping up to the 3.0L V6 increased that capability to 4,900 lbs.
The top-performing 4×2 option was the 4.0L V6, which allowed for a maximum tow rating of 6,300 lbs.
In 4×4 models, the 2.9L V6—common in earlier generations—was rated for 4,500 lbs of towing.
The 4.0L V6 in a 4×4 setup offered slightly less than its 4×2 counterpart but still delivered a strong 5,900-lb towing capacity, making it one of the most capable options of the model year.
1990 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1990 Ford Ranger offered a mix of four- and six-cylinder engines, with towing capacity varying by engine, drivetrain, and equipment.
In 4×2 models, the 2.3L inline-four provided 1,800 lbs of towing with a manual transmission and 2,900 lbs with an automatic.
The 2.9L V6 increased capability to 2,900 lbs with a manual and 4,900 lbs with an automatic. Reaching the higher rating required a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle.
At the top of the 4×2 range, the new 4.0L V6 delivered a max tow rating of 6,300 lbs, assuming the truck had a regular cab and 3.55 gearing.
In 4×4 configurations, the 2.3L engine had a modest tow rating of 1,400 lbs.
The 2.9L V6 in a 4×4 setup allowed for 2,500 lbs with a manual and 5,000 lbs with an automatic transmission. To achieve the 5,000-lb rating, a regular cab and 4.10 rear gears were required.
The most capable 4×4 option was the new 4.0L V6, rated at 5,900 lbs of towing when configured with a regular cab and 3.73 rear axle.
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity from 1983 to 1989
1989 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
For the 1989 model year, the Ford Ranger dropped the 2.0L engine option, leaving the 2.3L inline-four and 2.9L V6 as the available choices. Towing capacities continued to vary by drivetrain, transmission, and configuration.
In 4×2 models equipped with the 2.3L I-4, towing was rated at 1,800 lbs with a manual transmission and 3,000 lbs with an automatic.
The 2.9L V6 improved performance in the 4×2 setup, offering 3,000 lbs of towing with a manual and up to 5,400 lbs with an automatic. To reach that maximum rating, a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle were required.
In 4×4 configurations, the 2.3L engine delivered a modest 1,500-lb towing capacity.
The 2.9L V6 in 4×4 form offered 2,600 lbs with a manual transmission and 5,100 lbs with an automatic. As with the 4×2 automatic, the max rating required a regular cab and 4.10 rear gears.
1988 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1988 Ford Ranger offered three engine options: a 2.0L inline-four, a 2.3L inline-four, and a 2.9L V6, with towing capacities varying significantly depending on drivetrain and configuration.
In 4×2 models, the base 2.0L I-4 was rated for just 1,000 lbs of towing, making it the least capable option that year.
The 2.3L I-4 improved on that with a rating of 1,900 lbs when paired with a manual transmission and 3,100 lbs with an automatic.
The most powerful 4×2 option, the 2.9L V6, offered 3,100 lbs of towing with a manual and 5,500 lbs with an automatic. To reach the max rating, a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle were required.
In 4×4 configurations, the 2.3L I-4 could tow up to 1,700 lbs, a modest figure suitable for light-duty use.
The 2.9L V6 in a 4×4 setup offered a significant boost—2,800 lbs with a manual transmission and 5,300 lbs with an automatic. Like the 4×2 automatic, the maximum rating required a regular cab and 4.10 axle ratio.
1987 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1987 Ford Ranger marked the final year for the 2.3L turbo diesel engine, with a range of powertrains available including two inline-fours and the more capable 2.9L V6.
In 4×2 models, the base 2.0L I-4 had a tow rating of just 1,000 lbs. The 2.3L I-4 improved significantly, rated at 2,000 lbs with a manual transmission and 3,100 lbs with an automatic—though the automatic setup required a regular cab to reach its full potential.
The 2.3L turbo diesel, while unique, was rated for only 1,400 lbs of towing in 4×2 form.
The 2.9L V6 delivered far better performance, capable of towing 3,100 lbs with a manual and up to 5,600 lbs with an automatic. To hit the max rating, the truck needed a regular cab and 4.10 axle gearing.
In 4×4 configurations, the 2.3L I-4 towed up to 1,800 lbs, while the turbo diesel dropped to just 1,100 lbs.
The 2.9L V6 in a 4×4 setup was the most capable of the year, rated at 2,900 lbs with a manual transmission and 5,300 lbs with an automatic—again requiring a regular cab and 4.10 rear gears to achieve the top figure.
1986 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1986 Ford Ranger offered a wide range of powertrains, including the 2.0L and 2.3L gasoline inline-fours, a 2.3L turbo diesel, and the more powerful 2.9L V6, with towing performance depending on configuration and gearing.
In 4×2 models, the base 2.0L I-4 provided a modest towing capacity of 1,000 lbs. The 2.3L I-4 stepped things up with a rating of 2,000 lbs when paired with a manual and up to 3,600 lbs with an automatic. Achieving the maximum automatic rating required a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle ratio.
The 2.3L turbo diesel was rated at 2,000 lbs in the 4×2 layout, matching the manual version of the gasoline counterpart.
With the 2.9L V6 in a 4×2 setup, the Ranger could tow 2,200 lbs with a manual transmission and up to 5,100 lbs with an automatic—provided it had a regular cab and 3.73 gears.
In 4×4 models, the 2.3L gas and diesel engines were both rated at 1,800 lbs, reflecting their more limited capabilities off-road.
The 2.9L V6 in 4WD form offered 2,000 lbs of towing with a manual and 5,400 lbs with an automatic. The higher rating required a regular cab and 4.10 rear axle gearing to achieve.
1985 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1985 Ford Ranger continued to offer a mix of four- and six-cylinder engines, including the 2.0L and 2.3L inline-fours and the 2.8L V6. Towing capacity varied widely depending on the engine, transmission, and axle gearing.
In 4×2 configurations, the base 2.0L I-4 was rated for 1,000 lbs of towing. The 2.3L I-4 improved on that, offering 1,700 lbs with a manual transmission and up to 3,200 lbs with an automatic—requiring 3.73 rear axle gears to reach that rating.
The 2.8L V6 in a 4×2 setup was rated at 1,600 lbs with a manual and a strong 5,100 lbs with an automatic, also requiring 3.73 gears to hit its maximum capacity.
For 4×4 models, the 2.3L I-4 had a towing rating of 1,400 lbs with a manual transmission, while no rating was provided for automatic.
The 2.8L V6 in 4×4 form could tow 1,400 lbs with a manual and up to 4,900 lbs with an automatic, assuming it was paired with 3.73 rear axle gearing.
1984 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1984 Ford Ranger offered a variety of engine options, including two gasoline inline-fours, a diesel, and a V6, with towing performance depending heavily on drivetrain and axle gearing.
In 4×2 models, the base 2.0L I-4 and the 2.2L diesel were both rated at 1,000 lbs of towing capacity, making them the least capable choices for trailering.
The 2.3L I-4 provided a step up, rated at 1,700 lbs with a manual transmission and 3,200 lbs with an automatic—assuming the truck was equipped with 3.73 rear axle gears.
Towing capacity with the 2.8L V6 in 4×2 form reached 1,600 lbs with a manual and 5,100 lbs with an automatic, again requiring 3.73 gearing to hit that upper limit.
In 4×4 configurations, the 2.3L I-4 was rated at 1,400 lbs with a manual transmission, though no figure was given for automatic.
The 2.8L V6 in a 4×4 setup matched the manual’s 1,400-lb tow rating but delivered up to 4,900 lbs with an automatic, provided it was paired with 3.73 rear gears.
1983 Ford Ranger Towing Capacity
The 1983 model year marked the debut of the Ford Ranger, launching with a variety of powertrains that offered a wide range of towing capacities.
In 4×2 configurations, the base 2.0L inline-four and the 2.2L diesel were both rated at just 1,000 lbs of towing capacity, making them suitable only for light-duty use.
Stepping up to the 2.3L I-4 significantly improved performance, with a single listed tow rating of 3,300 lbs—regardless of transmission.
In 4×4 models, the 2.3L I-4 maintained its 3,300-lb tow rating, making it a versatile choice for light off-road towing needs.
At the top of the lineup was the 2.8L V6, available in 4×4 only, offering a maximum towing capacity of 4,200 lbs—making it the most capable configuration in the Ranger’s inaugural year.
2025 Ford Ranger Trim Levels
The 2025 Ford Ranger rolls out in four distinct trims, each offering a different flavor of mid-size pickup bravado: XL, XLT, Lariat, and the snarling Raptor. From the no-nonsense, budget-friendly XL to the tech-savvy and plush Lariat, there’s a Ranger for every wallet and whim, with the XLT striking a middle ground for those who want kit without breaking the bank. The Raptor, meanwhile, is the unhinged off-road king, built to chew up dirt like a monster truck with a day job. Whether you’re after basic utility or a leather-clad, gadget-heavy beast, this lineup’s got you covered, unlike the one-size-fits-all misery of the old ’83 model.
XL
The 2025 Ford Ranger XL is the bare-knuckle base model, starting just north of $34,500. It’s built for someone who want a truck that works hard without fuss or fanfare. Standard kit includes a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8.0-inch digital gauge display, and basic driver aids like forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking. You get the 270-hp turbo 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 10-speed auto, with rear- or four-wheel drive options.
Pros? It’s affordable, capable of towing 7,500 pounds, and gets the job done with minimal fluff. Cons? The interior’s a bit plasticky, second-row HVAC vents are absent, and you’ll miss out on fancier tech like adaptive cruise unless you splurge on options.
This trim suits fleet buyers, tradies, or anyone who’d rather spend their cash on tools than touchscreen gizmos. It’s a stark contrast to the ’83 Ranger’s spartan roots, but with enough modern kit to avoid feeling like a time warp.
XLT
The 2025 Ford Ranger XLT steps up from the XL like a bloke who’s swapped his work boots for a sharp pair of loafers, starting around $37,000. It builds on the XL’s 270-hp turbo 2.3-liter four-cylinder and 10-speed auto with rear- or four-wheel drive, adding LED exterior lighting, 17-inch aluminum wheels, power-folding mirrors, in-dash navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a bed-mounted power outlet.
The Co-Pilot360 suite brings blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist, making it far less basic than the XL’s bare-bones setup. You can also opt for the Technology package for adaptive cruise and a 360-degree camera. It’s not as plush as the Lariat, but the XLT’s blend of options and value suits young families and weekend adventurers.
Lariat
The 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat, priced around $43,000, is the posh cousin in the lineup, trading the XLT’s sensible shoes for a pair of shiny cowboy boots. It keeps the 270-hp turbo 2.3-liter four-cylinder or optional 315-hp twin-turbo V-6, paired with a 10-speed auto and rear- or four-wheel drive, but piles on luxury with power-adjustable leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a 10-speaker B&O sound system, and a larger 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster. The 12-inch vertical touchscreen running Sync 4 is standard, alongside extras like ambient lighting and zone-lighting for the exterior.
Compared to the XLT, it’s a leap in comfort and tech, though the price creeps close to full-size truck territory. This trim is perfect for urban cowboys, small business owners, or anyone who wants a mid-size pickup that feels like a lounge on wheels.
Raptor
The 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor, starting at a hefty $57,500, is the unhinged, dirt-devouring overlord of the lineup, built for those who see off-road trails as their personal playground. It’s powered by a snarling 405-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6, mated to a 10-speed auto and standard four-wheel drive, with a reinforced frame, long-travel suspension, locking differentials, and chunky all-terrain tires.
Standard options include a 12.0-inch touchscreen, 12.4-inch digital gauges, a 10-speaker B&O audio system, and off-road wizardry like terrain-specific drive modes.
What makes it special? It’s a pint-sized F-150 Raptor, capable of leaping dunes and crawling rocks, with a 5.8-second 0-60 mph sprint to boot. It’s perfect for adrenaline junkies, off-road racers, or anyone who’d rather conquer a desert than cruise a cul-de-sac.
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If you’re interested in comparing the tow capacity of the Ranger vs. a full-size pickup, we have an article about the Chevrolet Silverado. Check it out!
