2001 Ranger Edge

The Ford Ranger has been America’s best-selling midsize pickup for 13 straight years,
according to Ford, and for 2001 it has been redesigned with an aggressive new look,
increased performance, improved safety and a multitude of choices. Design elements derived
from Ford’s F-series pickup give the Ranger a tougher look overall, and the all-new Edge
package (shown) features a monochromatic paint scheme (available in red, white, blue, black
or chrome yellow), four-wheel-drive ride height (in 4WD or 2WD models), mesh grille, “power
dome” raised hood, fender flares, protective bed rails, front tow hooks, fog lamps and a
150-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 and five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. Optional in
the Edge, as well as the XL and XLT trim levels, is a new 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 engine that
produces 207 hp (47 more than last year’s model) and 238 lb-ft of torque, and a new
five-speed automatic transmission with “adaptive shift technology” that “learns” the way
you drive and adjusts itself accordingly. Inside, the Ranger Edge features vinyl seating
surfaces and textured floor for easy clean up, plus a four-speaker CD system with Dolby,
AM/FM stereo and 60 watts of power. Also available is a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, and
for real audiophiles, the “Tremor” package with 560 watts and a built-in subwoofer
enclosure. Options of interest to RVers include a Class III hitch, 4.10:1 axle ratio and a
Bed Extender that folds out when the tailgate is lowered to provide additional room for
motorcycles, watercraft, etc. Standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes, revised suspension
components (updated stabilizer bar/spring rates, upgraded bushings and shock tuning
modifications) and a quieter ride are offered in the entire Ranger line, which includes a
Styleside or Flareside box, regular or SuperCab. For those interested in an even more
rugged vehicle, Ford will soon release an as yet un-named “hardcore” off-road version of
the Edge, which will include (among other features) Alcoa forged wheels, BFGoodrich
All-Terrain tires, Bilstein shocks and a special interior treatment.