2025 Ford Ranger rear view on an incline

Best Ford Ranger year to buy pre-owned

A year-by-year guide to used Ford Ranger models 

If you’re hunting for a used midsize pickup around Edmonton and Sherwood Park, Sherwood Ford has you covered. The Ford Ranger was out of production in North America for the 2012–2018 model years and returned for 2019—so most of the pre-owned inventory you’ll find locally spans 2019–2025. Below you’ll find a quick “best year” cheat-sheet, followed by a year-by-year guide to what changed and why it matters. Keep reading to learn about the best Ford Ranger year to buy pre-owned. 



Our top pre-owned Ranger picks 

  • Best value all-rounder: 2021 Ranger (adds Tremor Off-Road Package availability and useful package updates while keeping prices reasonable).  
  • Budget buy: 2019–2020 Ranger (return-year trucks with the robust 2.3L EcoBoost and 10-speed; look for FX4).  
  • Tech & comfort leap: 2024 Ranger (new generation: stiffer chassis, outboard rear shocks, bigger screens, more driver aids; available 2.7L V6 and Raptor).  
  • Still-new sweet spot: 2025 Ranger (carry-over from 2024 with minor tweaks—great if you want near-new at a used price).  

Best Ford Ranger year to buy: 2019–2025 differences 

2019 Ford Ranger front and side view

2019 The comeback year 

What changed: The Ford Ranger returned to North America with a 2.3L EcoBoost (270 hp/310 lb-ft) and a segment-exclusive 10-speed automatic, on a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame. Co-Pilot360 driver aids and FX4 Off-Road were available. 

Pros: Simple lineup, stout powertrain, strong tow (up to 7,500 lb when properly equipped). 


2020 Ford Ranger front and side view on red sand

2020 Small updates, same formula 

What changed: The 2020 Ranger is mostly a carry-over; a few new colours/appearance options rolled in. 

Pros: Often the best pricing vs. 2019 with the same core hardware; shop by package (FX4/Trailer Tow). 


2021 Off-road upgrade year 

What changed: The Tremor Off-Road Package was introduced with upgraded dampers, lifted/tuned suspension, skid plates, and improved approach/departure angles. 

Pros: Tremor trucks are highly desirable for Alberta backroads and recreation.


2022 Ford Ranger Splash side view with orange paint

2022 Style specials 

What changed: The 2022 Ranger is largely a carry-over mechanically; Splash and Splash Limited Edition appearance packages (Snow/Forest/Sand Editions) brought unique colours and trims in limited numbers. 

Pros: A distinctive look without a big generation-change premium. 


2023 Final year of the outgoing generation (minor tweaks) 

What changed: Minor updates and special appearance packages (e.g., Splash Jungle Edition) were added to the 2023 Ranger, plus some colour changes. 

Pros: The 2023 Ranger is often better equipped than earlier trucks, without the 2024 redesign price bump. 


2024 Ford Ranger truck front view

2024 All-new generation (big leap) 

What changed: The 2024 offers a redesigned exterior, a roomier cabin with upgraded materials, SYNC 4A infotainment with a large touchscreen, expanded driver-assist features, and more upgrades. 

Pros: The tech and comfort jump is significant; look for 2.7L V6 if you tow or drive at altitude, or Raptor for serious off-road. 


2025 Ford Ranger front view in red

2025 Carry-over with small refinements 

What changed: Minor changes were made for the 2025 model year; the overall design/mechanicals carry over from 2024. 

Pros: The latest generation’s benefits, good target for CPO, and low-km units. 



Which model year of the Ranger is best for you? 

  • Weekend adventurer / light overlanding: 2021 Tremor or 2024 Raptor. Tremor is affordable and very capable; Raptor is the high-performance option.  
  • Daily driver with strong tech & comfort: 2024–2025 (new cabin, bigger screens, more assists). 
  • Budget workhorse: 2019–2020 (same proven powertrain, best prices; prioritize FX4 and Trailer Tow). 
  • Appearance/unique colours: 2022 Splash/Limited or 2023 Jungle Edition. 

Shop used Ford Ranger near Edmonton 

Sherwood Ford (2540 Broadmoor Blvd, Sherwood Park) stocks a broad selection of pre-owned Rangers from 2019 onward, with local trade-ins and Ford Certified Pre-Owned options. Tell us how you’ll use your truck—towing, camping, city commuting—and we’ll match you to the right year, trim, and package.