Ford Ranger STX

For decades, Ford has produced a variety of cornerstone vehicles of which the Ford Ranger might just be the best known. It has been around for over 30 years, and it has served as a best seller for customers wanting a quality light truck. For people wanting a little more size and style, the STX package is available for XL models, making the Ranger STX one of the most capable, stylish, and luxurious light trucks on the market.

When it comes to towing, torque is important. However, the engine's 270 HP and powertrain's ability to create 310 lb-ft of torque also amount to agility. In terms of speed, the Ranger STX is very quick, moving deftly off a stoplight or accelerating comfortably in traffic. It does not feel sluggish as trucks with less torque might feel. Additionally, even when it is loaded with cargo, the engine's ability to keep the STX moving and agile is very pleasing. Part of this performance comes from the fact that the STX features a 10-speed transmission, making it smooth, capable, and fun to drive.

Just because a truck is often paired with cargo capacity and utility does not mean it cannot be stylish and luxurious. In fact, JD Power noted this is one of the most luxurious trucks in its class due to the infotainment center, which is packed with surprises.

The Ford Ranger STX is known for its style. Simply put, you will not come across any boring versions. It comes as a rugged and sophisticated, black-and-silver highlight package for any of the XL models. As such, your Ranger will feel and look powerful, sleek, and modern. For instance, it features tinted glass for privacy on rear windows and door windows.

Anyone who owns a truck wants to actually use the truck for occasional hauling. For people who use their truck for work purposes and to tow, older STX models can tow between 1,600 and 2,460 pounds. For recreational purposes, you can even tow an ultra-light RV, making it an all-purpose family vehicle.

However, the new versions of this classic truck can tow a whopping 7,500 pounds, promoting it into the league of older F 150s. Yes, you read that right. A newer Ranger STX can tow as much as some of the older full-size trucks. This is impressive, making it possible to pull fully loaded landscaping trailers. For anyone wanting to tow an RV, restrictions to smaller, ultra-light campers have been removed. In fact, combined with the powerful engine and powertrain, this truck does not give up any speed or agility when towing a full load.

In some smaller vehicles, the ability to see can be obstructed by odd angles or small windows. The Ranger STX, however, offers superior visibility via an expansive set of windows. That said, the Ford Ranger STX also includes several high-tech features to increase safety by digitally broadening your awareness.

The newer models feature some genuinely smart technology that includes AI designed to keep the driver and passengers safe. For instance, AI-imbued cameras will sound a gentle alarm if you drift from your lane into oncoming traffic. Moreover, the AI-powered computer can help the driver stay in the lane via AI-powered lane assist, which actually controls the steering. Finally, AI-powered cameras monitor the driver for sleepiness by noting such things as head posture, blinking, and nodding off. Finally, the computer system comes pre-equipped with smart lights that can automatically detect the need for high beams versus low beams.

Although the Ranger STX falls in the category of light trucks, it is not small or cramped. Offering 89.2 cubic feet of interior space, it offers 55.8 inches of hip room in the front and 55.6 inches of shoulder room. Leg room spans a total of 43.1 inches and 30.4 inches in the back.

Being that the Ranger STX is a package for XL models, every STX comes with a 72-inch bed. This bed length is of enormous value when hauling tools. In fact, when it comes to moving from one residence to another, it is perfect for hauling couches, appliances, or other large items. For added convenience, it can be fitted with a full-length camper shell.

Motor Trend listed the Ford Ranger STX as the best truck in its class, beating out the Ford Ranger Lariat, the Chevrolet Colorado, and the Honda Ridgeline. They even tested it against the worthy Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road, and it proved superior across multiple areas of performance.