What engines are offered in the Ford Ranger?

In the United States, the Ranger is powered by a 2.3‑liter EcoBoost turbocharged four‑cylinder engine. Across other regions, Ford offers a mix of diesel and gasoline engines, with EcoBlue and Duratorq designs dominating many markets depending on model year and local regulations.

The Ranger’s engine lineup varies by country and generation, reflecting regional demand, tuning, and emissions rules. This article outlines the current offerings by major markets and notes where options diverge between regions.

North America (United States and Canada)

In North America, Ford has standardized on a single gasoline turbocharged option to simplify sourcing and support. The following engine is available across Ranger trims in this region.

• 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 gasoline turbocharged engine

In North America, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost is paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission and delivers the Ranger’s expected balance of performance and efficiency across all trims.

Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific

Beyond North America, the Ranger’s powertrain lineup leans heavily on turbocharged diesel engines, with regional variations by market and generation. The following engines are commonly offered across these regions, though availability can change with the model year and local emissions rules.

• 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel (turbocharged) — used in multiple markets with single-turbo or bi-turbo configurations depending on year and trim


• 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder diesel — a larger diesel option used in some markets (notably in certain Australian and regional configurations, primarily on older or specific trim levels)


• 2.2-liter Duratorq diesel — an additional diesel option found in older generations and select markets

In this region, diesel options are favored for torque and towing capability, with EcoBlue engines dominating recent offers and Duratorq variants remaining in legacy or regional spec sheets. Always verify the exact engine at a local dealer for a given model year and market.

Ranger Raptor and other regional variants

Special variants such as the Ranger Raptor in eligible markets typically rely on higher-output turbocharged diesel powerplants or region-specific tuning. Availability and exact engine configuration for these models vary by country and year, so checking local specifications is essential.

Ranger Raptor variants are marketed as performance-focused pickups, and engine options reflect regional power and emissions rules. Local Ford dealers provide current configurations for the markets they serve.

What to know about availability by market

Engine availability on the Ford Ranger is influenced by model year, emissions standards, and regional demand. While the United States favors a single gasoline turbo engine, most other major markets emphasize diesel options, with EcoBlue and Duratorq names regularly appearing on official spec sheets. Always consult a local dealer or Ford’s regional site for the exact engine lineup for your country and trim level.

Summary

The Ford Ranger’s engine lineup is regionally diversified. In the United States, it centers on a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine. In Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia-Pacific, buyers commonly encounter turbocharged diesel options such as the 2.0-liter EcoBlue, along with older or regional Duratorq diesel variants. Engine offerings can shift with new generations and regulatory changes, so current local specifications are your best guide.

What is the best engine in a Ford Ranger?

The best Ford Ranger engine depends on your priorities: the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is generally considered the best all-around option for balancing power and efficiency for most users, while the 2.3L EcoBoost is the most fuel-efficient standard choice for daily driving. For maximum power and off-roading, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is the top performer, available exclusively in the Ranger Raptor. 
Best for most drivers (balance of power and efficiency) 

• 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Provides a significant power increase over the standard engine with 315 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, offering a more effortless and responsive driving experience, especially when towing. It's a great upgrade for XLT and Lariat trims. 

Best for daily driving and fuel economy 

• 2.3L EcoBoost: As the standard engine on XL, XLT, and Lariat trims, it offers a solid balance of performance (270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque) and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday use and light hauling. 

Best for maximum performance

• 3.0L EcoBoost V6: Found in the Ranger Raptor, this engine delivers the highest output with 405 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. It is the top choice for those who need the most power, especially for off-roading and desert racing, though it requires premium fuel. 

What to consider

• Towing: The 2.7L V6 is better suited for towing near the truck's maximum capacity without as much of a fuel economy penalty compared to the 2.3L. 
• Fuel Type: The 3.0L engine in the Raptor requires premium 91 octane fuel, while the 2.3L and 2.7L engines use regular 87 octane fuel. 
• Reliability: The 2.3L has a good track record for reliability, though older versions had some issues like spark plug corrosion. The 2.7L and 3.0L engines are newer and have shown some cam phaser problems. 

What is the most common problem with Ford Rangers?

The most common problem with Ford Rangers is transmission issues, including rough shifts, hesitation, and loss of power. Other frequent problems include engine misfires, stalling, oil leaks, and issues with the A/C blend door, especially in certain model years.
 
Powertrain problems 
This video explains several problems with Ford Ranger engines, including overheating and oil leaks: 59sFuel ForceYouTube · Oct 13, 2025

• Transmission: Many owners report rough or delayed shifting, hesitation, and power loss. Newer models with the 10-speed transmission have been particularly noted for these issues. 
• Engine: Misfires, hesitation, and stalling are frequently reported, sometimes caused by issues like exhaust valve recession or failing sensors. 
• Oil leaks: Oil leaks from the valve cover and oil pan gaskets can lead to low oil levels and premature engine wear. 

Other common issues

• A/C blend door: The blend door actuator is a common failure point that can cause the A/C to blow cold on one side and hot on the other. The fix is often expensive as it requires removing the dashboard. 
• Steering: Some models have reported clicking or clunking noises while steering. 
• Brakes: "Spongy" brakes are a recurring complaint on some models. 

Potential solutions

• Transmission: A custom tune or software update may help improve shifting performance on some models. 
• Engine: Replacing sensors or addressing the underlying cause of misfires and stalls is necessary. Regularly changing engine oil is critical to prevent damage from leaks. 
• A/C: For blend door issues, replacing the actuator and door assembly is the most permanent fix. While costly, there are updated parts available to prevent future failure. 

What engines are available in the Ford Ranger?

The Ford Ranger is available with three engine options: a standard 2.3L EcoBoost I4, an optional 2.7L EcoBoost V6, and a high-performance 3.0L EcoBoost V6 that is exclusive to the Ranger Raptor. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. 

• 2.3L EcoBoost I4: This is the standard engine on the XL, XLT, and Lariat trims. It produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost V6: This is an optional upgrade for the XLT and Lariat trims. It delivers 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. 
• 3.0L EcoBoost V6: This is a high-performance engine available only on the Ranger Raptor trim. It produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. 

Which is better, a Ford Ranger 2.2 or a 3.2 engine?

The lower-powered 2.2-litre is good enough for workmen, but private buyers who want to tow caravans and such would do better to plump for the 3.2-litre.