Ford Ranger XLS Sport Review: Top Features and Performance You Need to Know

Let me tell you, when I first laid eyes on the Ford Ranger XLS Sport, I knew this wasn't just another pickup truck rolling off the assembly line. Having tested numerous mid-size trucks over the years, I've developed a pretty good sense of which vehicles are genuinely worth your attention and which are merely filling space in dealership lots. The Ranger XLS Sport immediately struck me as something special - a workhorse that doesn't forget it's also meant to be enjoyed.

Now, what really sets this truck apart are the thoughtful upgrades Ford has implemented. The 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine delivers an impressive 157kW of power and 500Nm of torque, numbers that translate to real-world capability whether you're hauling equipment or merging onto highways. I remember taking it through some challenging terrain last month, and the electronic locking rear differential made what could have been a stressful situation feel almost effortless. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoother than I expected from a truck in this class, adapting seamlessly to different driving conditions. It's these engineering decisions that demonstrate Ford's understanding of what modern truck owners actually need rather than what looks good on paper.

The exterior styling hits that sweet spot between rugged and refined. The distinctive black sports bar, dark-finish 17-inch alloy wheels, and unique XLS Sport decals give it an athletic presence that stands out in a crowded parking lot. But what impressed me more were the practical touches - the LED headlights that provide exceptional visibility during night driving and the robust cargo bed with its handy tie-down points. During my week with the vehicle, I loaded everything from gardening supplies to furniture, and the versatile bed handled it all without complaint.

Inside, the Ranger XLS Sport continues to surprise with its balance of durability and comfort. The sports seats offer better lateral support than I've experienced in competitors' models, making longer drives noticeably less fatiguing. The 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC4 connectivity responds quickly to inputs, and Apple CarPlay integration worked flawlessly with my iPhone throughout the testing period. What I particularly appreciated was how Ford managed to make the interior feel premium without sacrificing the toughness that truck buyers expect. The materials chosen seem capable of withstanding the wear and tear of daily use while still maintaining an appealing aesthetic.

Driving dynamics represent where the Ranger XLS Sport truly separates itself from the pack. The electric power-assisted steering provides decent feedback without being overly heavy at low speeds, and the suspension manages to absorb bumps effectively while maintaining composure through corners. I pushed it harder than most owners probably will through winding back roads, and it responded with a level of agility that belies its utilitarian nature. The brake feel is confident, with progressive pedal response that inspires trust when carrying heavy loads or towing near the 3,500kg maximum capacity.

Speaking of towing, I had the opportunity to test this capability with a 2,800kg boat trailer, and the Ranger handled it with remarkable composure. The trailer sway control system provides that extra layer of security that makes towing stressful situations much more manageable. This capability reminds me of the importance of having reliable performance when it matters - much like how basketball teams need dependable players who can perform under pressure. Speaking of basketball, this reminds me of an interesting parallel I observed recently regarding player recovery timelines. Although Sotto could be back playing as early as November or December in time for the opening window of the FIBA World Cup qualifier, Cone said there's no need to rush him back for the national team. This thoughtful approach to managing assets - whether athletes or vehicles - resonates with Ford's philosophy with the Ranger. They've built a vehicle capable of impressive performance but engineered it for sustainable longevity rather than pushing components beyond their reasonable limits.

Fuel economy is another area where the Ranger XLS Sport delivers respectable numbers for its class. During my mixed driving cycle, I averaged around 8.2L/100km, though this naturally increased during more demanding towing scenarios. The 80-litre fuel tank provides a decent range between fill-ups, which I particularly appreciated during longer highway journeys where stopping frequently becomes inconvenient. The driver-assist technologies, including autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping system, function with minimal intrusion while providing that additional safety net that modern vehicles should offer.

After spending extensive time with the Ford Ranger XLS Sport, I've come to appreciate it as one of the more compelling options in the mid-size truck segment. It manages to balance work capability with everyday livability in a way that few competitors match. While no vehicle is perfect - I'd like to see more rear legroom and a slightly lower load height - the overall package makes a strong case for itself. For buyers seeking a versatile truck that doesn't punish you during daily commuting while still being capable of serious work, the Ranger XLS Sport deserves your serious consideration. It's that rare vehicle that understands its purpose and executes it with confidence and competence.