We’ve heard quite a few rumors about the next-generation, 2023 Ford Ranger in recent months. However, what we haven’t seen is a 2023 Ford Ranger prototype testing – until now. These photos represent the very first time we’ve spied a next-gen Ford Ranger prototype in the flesh, and though it is wearing heavy camouflage, it does reveal a few key details about the forthcoming pickup.
The most obvious lies up front, where we can easily spot a new C-shaped headlight design that mimics the one currently used on the 2021 Ford F-150 and 2022 Ford Maverick pickups (as seen in a recently leaked photo of the Maverick). The design would bring the new Ranger in line with The Blue Oval’s current design language for pickups. The rest of the front end is covered up very well by the camo, but we can also see a set of fog lights recessed in the bumper.
It’s difficult to discern any additional details about the 2023 Ford Ranger from these photos, but it is clear that the overall shape of the pickup isn’t changing much, which isn’t a huge surprise. However, prior rumors suggest that the next-gen Ranger will bring about quite a few changes in side and under the hood, with a series of new powertrain options.
Currently, the North American Ranger is only available with one engine and transmission combination – Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 and 10-speed automatic gearbox. However, a report from last spring suggests that the next-gen Ranger will be available in other parts of the world with a 2.0L four-cylinder diesel, Ford’s 3.0L Power Stroke diesel, and even a PHEV variant that pairs Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with an electric motor.
Regardless, the 10-speed will continue to be the only transmission option, at least in North America. It’s also possible that the Ranger Raptor will finally come to the U.S. when the next-gen model debuts as well.
The 2023 Ranger will ride on an updated version of the Ford T6 platform used by the current model and the 2021 Ford Bronco, and both will be produced for North America at the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant. The next-gen Ranger will also serve as the basis for a new Volkswagen Amarok pickup as part of the two automaker’s recently finalized agreement.
2023 Ford Ranger Leaked Photo
Expect the next-gen Ford Ranger to go on sale in Australia in late 2022 or early 2023, with a global release toward the end of the 2022 calendar year for the 2023 model year.
We’ll have more on the next-gen Ranger very soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for the latest Ford Ranger news and non-stop Ford news coverage.
Comments
I really hope there is significantly more interior room; but the outside door proportions shown here are not promising. I only “need” the bed of a Ranger, but the interior was so cramped — especially with 2 grown adult younglings + a 25-lb dog in the back — that I got the F-150 instead. I’m sure Ford’s bean counters are happy I did so, but my wallet isn’t!
Literally the reason the F-150 exists for people who need “significantly more room than a Ranger”. And shockingly yes, it’s more expensive.
Thank GOD because the one Ford has now is simply ugly, hopefully it will have the family resemblance of the F150 and new compact that should have been named Courier
Please offer a King Ranch and Platinum.
Some folks like a regular cab instead of extended. A full size bed is nice to have. Toss a diesel in as well or a simple 4 or 6 cylinder without turbo. Older trucks did well enough with less than 200 horsepower. 135 HP might suffice.
Does anyone know why the 2021 model is coming out so late? I feel like new models are usually offered in late fall and I’m seeing reports that the 21 wo the out for a while. I’m considering the xl with the stx package but would like to see it in person first
I need the half-door cab with the long bed and higher sides.