23 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling contests, but it’s a respectable figure for the 2022 Ford Ranger 2WD with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine. This truck carved out a specific niche: the practical and affordable mid-size pickup for buyers who prioritize capability over outright fuel efficiency. Think contractors hauling tools, weekend warriors transporting kayaks, or anyone needing a bed for occasional Home Depot runs; these buyers understand the trade-off and ultimately find it acceptable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Ranger 2WD at 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine works harder to accelerate from each standstill. The 2.3L EcoBoost offers plenty of low-end torque, which is beneficial in these conditions, ensuring acceleration without excessive throttle input. On the highway, the 26 MPG rating demonstrates the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, aided by the 10-speed automatic transmission that keeps the engine in its optimal rev range. Don’t expect hybrid-like numbers, but for a truck, these values are reasonable given the inherent aerodynamic challenges and weight.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Ford Ranger 2WD 2.3L at exactly $1,900. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG figure of 23 MPG, and assumes the national average fuel price. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate affected by fluctuating gas prices and individual driving habits. Drivers who accelerate quickly or those frequently towing will see this figure climb accordingly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy always varies. Owners report figures slightly above or below the EPA estimates, depending on individual driving styles, terrain, and weather conditions. Regular maintenance, such as keeping tires properly inflated and ensuring the engine is running, will positively impact overall fuel efficiency.

Aggressive acceleration and braking will quickly erode your MPG, as will carrying heavy loads frequently. The best approach is to drive with anticipation, maintaining a consistent speed whenever possible.

How it compares

The Ranger’s rivals offer a range of fuel economy numbers. The 2WD version of the Nissan Frontier with its 3.8L V6 achieves an EPA-rated 20 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with the 2.5L 4-cylinder rates at 22 MPG combined. The Toyota Tacoma SR 2WD with its 2.7L 4-cylinder also sits at 21 MPG combined. These minor differences reflect the varying engine technologies and vehicle weights. Keep in mind that moving to a 4×4 configuration substantially alters the fuel consumption for all these models. For the Ranger’s target demographic, these marginally higher or lower MPG figures often rank below factors like towing capacity and cabin space when making a purchase decision. You can find RANGER MPG across all years on this site if you’re considering generations of the model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize your tire pressure. Check the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure, and make it a habit to check your tires every few weeks. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel, and can also reduce tire life.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turning off the engine can save you fuel. Modern restart systems mean you won’t be putting extra strain on the starter and battery. The Ranger’s EcoBoost engine is sensitive to small changes in driving behavior, so avoiding prolonged idling makes a difference.

Use cruise control wisely. On long highway drives, cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, minimizing variations in throttle input and optimizing fuel consumption. However, in hilly terrain, be mindful that the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the benefits. Consider disabling cruise control on very steep inclines.

Limit aggressive driving. Hard acceleration and abrupt braking significantly decrease fuel economy. The Ranger’s 2.3L EcoBoost offers plenty of power for most tasks, so there’s no need to push it to its limits unnecessarily. Smooth and measured driving will reward you with better MPG and reduced wear and tear on your vehicle.

Reduce cargo weight. Hauling unnecessary weight puts extra strain on the engine. Remove any items from the cargo bed that you don’t need, particularly heavy items like tools or equipment. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, impacting fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Be sure to explore all Ford fuel economy data to compare various models and configurations.