Are you a Calgarian thinking about buying a Ford F-150 Lightning? We get it. The bright and flashy new (newish?) toy could be all buzz and no bite. But if you’re a firmly entrenched Calgarian making a life here, there are some specific factors you need to consider before entering the next-gen wonders of electric vehicles (EVs).

From dealing with harsh winter weather to understanding the local charging infrastructure, this guide covers all the essential things for Calgarians to consider before committing to a new Ford F-150 Lightning.

Quick Decision-Making Criteria for Buying a Ford F-150 Lightning

• Cold weather affects the Ford F-150 Lightning’s battery performance and charging efficiency, with potential range drops of up to one-third in frigid conditions.
• The standard home charging equipment will cover you down to -30, but Calgary has a handful of days colder than that every year; consider indoor home charging with a garage, or the Pro Charger!
• Calgary has grown a robust charging infrastructure with over 200 public charging stations, including fast chargers that can significantly reduce charging times for long journeys.
• The F-150 Lightning features advanced towing capabilities but at a cost of range.
• This BEV has energy-saving technologies, alongside a comprehensive warranty and maintenance support.
• The Lightning can save you around 40% of the average gas prices for Canadians, but likely more since you’re comparing a gas-only truck with the much lower fuel economy of an EV truck.
• You can cut your emissions down by about 78% opting for an EV like the Ford F-150 Lightning
• Many of the best F-150 accessories easily slot into the EV version.
• It all depends on who you are, what your home can accommodate, and more; ask your sales advisor!

Calgary’s Cold Weather: Subzero Performance of the Lightning

Your sales advisor can help you understand how Calgary’s cold weather affects the F-150 Lightning’s battery efficiency, reducing its range by approximately one-third. This knowledge is crucial for planning your trips and ensuring a smooth driving experience in colder conditions.

Calgarians know all too well that winter here is no joke. When it comes to EVs like the Ford F-150 Lightning, cold weather can significantly impact battery efficiency. In fact, you might experience a drop in range by as much as one-third when temperatures plummet. This reality is mainly due to the reduced efficiency of lithium-ion batteries in cold climates.

Is Calgary Too Cold to Have a Home Charger and F-150 Lightning Charge Outside?

Charging the F-150 Lightning in freezing temperatures poses its own set of challenges. Since Calgary can see some frigid temperatures every year between -30 and -40, it’s important to know the limits; the standard home charger remains effective only down to -22 degrees Fahrenheit or -30 degrees Celsius for us here in Calgary. Below that, the whole assembly becomes a frozen block! But not permanently.

To mitigate these issues, it’s recommended to keep the vehicle inside a garage and plugged in overnight, allowing the battery management system to self-regulate its temperature. Still, F-150 Lightning owners have been able to warm their EV trucks and chargers alike this way. Garages are common here in the city, but houses built in the ’50s like Spruce Cliff or Fairview don’t always have a garage.

Power output is another concern during Calgary’s frigid winters. The battery’s ability to deliver full power is often compromised in cold conditions, which means you might not get the performance you expect. However, the F-150 Lightning comes equipped with a gauge to indicate power output, helping you understand these limitations. Regular trickle charging using a 120-volt outlet can also provide enough heat and energy in the grip of winter to continue maintaining battery life, longevity, and thrust.

Using the FordPass App to Your F-150 Lightning’s Advantage in Winter

Using the FordPass app to schedule departures can help warm both the battery and cabin using Calgary’s grid power. FordPass is your secret weapon, for all things Lightning, in winter especially.

But what if you’re visiting family or friends without EVs of their own, winter, spring, summer or fall? Home is where the charger is, but we can look at ways you can charge when you’re housesitting downtown Calgary or the suburbs of Calgary let’s explore the charging infrastructure available not far from your place to support your electric vehicle charging needs. Let’s get into some strategies to help you make the most of your F-150 Lightning’s range.

Range Considerations and Management

Range anxiety is a common concern among electric vehicle owners, but understanding your F-150 Lightning’s capabilities can significantly reduce this worry. For daily driving, it’s advisable to keep the vehicle’s charge level between 20% and 80% to avoid any unexpected range issues. Planning your trips in advance, including identifying charging stations along your route, can also alleviate range-related concerns.

The new Ford F-150 Lightning models offer varying ranges to suit different driving needs. Both the 4WD PRO ER1 and 4WD ER1 models deliver an EPA range of 515 kilometers, while the Platinum 4WD comes in at 483 kilometers. Meanwhile, the 4WD SR model provides a range of 386 kilometers.

Getting the Most Out of the Ford F-150 Lightning’s Range

When setting out on long trips, verifying the status of charging stations using apps can enhance your confidence and ensure you have a smooth journey. You may also want to consider a mobile charger and extension cord provides extra peace of mind, offering more charging options during travel. Driving at lower speeds and minimizing climate control usage can further help extend the vehicle’s range; less heat in the cabin can get you to Lake Louise and back easier in the winter especially.

Towing with the F-150 Lightning introduces another layer of range considerations. The truck calculates its estimated range based on the trailer’s weight and dimensions, adjusting the range displayed on the touchscreen accordingly. It’s important to note that towing heavy loads can significantly reduce the vehicle’s range, by at least 50% (to start).

Understanding these range dynamics and planning accordingly allows Calgarians to optimize their F-150 Lightning ownership, whether commuting within the city or heading out for an adventure in the prairies or the mountains; while you could make it from Calgary to the Petro on 22X, charge for 30 mins, and then take your truck and trailer to Canmore only to charge again, it’s not exactly fun or practical. Next, let’s discuss the home charging solutions available to ensure your vehicle is always ready to go.

Home Charging Solutions

Charging your Ford F-150 Lightning at home in Northeast Calgary is convenient and efficient. With a home charger, you can ensure your truck is always ready for the road, providing peace of mind and reducing range anxiety.

Home charging solutions are a critical consideration for any electric vehicle owner, and the Ford F-150 Lightning is no exception. The Ford Charge Station Pro is designed to deliver up to 80 amps of charging power, ensuring quick recharging for your electric truck. This powerful charger can deliver 30 km of range per hour, making it highly efficient for overnight charging.

The Charge Station Pro also includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to conveniently monitor and control your charging sessions from your smartphone. This ensures that you can keep track of your vehicle’s charging status and make adjustments as needed.

Can You Save Money Charging the Ford F-150 Lightning at Home?

Universal Ford has sales advisor happy to discuss the return on investment (ROI) of home charging versus gas savings, especially while you sleep. On average, Calgarians save approximately $1,500 per year (or 40% of $3,000) compared to traditional gas vehicles (but granted that’s not all at-home charging). This huge financial benefit, combined with the convenience of home charging, makes the Ford Charge Station Pro an attractive option for F-150 Lightning owners.

As some of our staff and management are Ford EV owners ourselves, we can’t suggest skipping out on home charging in good conscience. For those living in older communities, Universal Ford’s certified electricians handle the installation process, including obtaining necessary permits. This ensures that your home charging setup is safe, compliant, and ready to meet your daily charging needs.

Next, let’s discuss the warranty and maintenance support available to keep your F-150 Lightning running smoothly.

 Warranty and Maintenance

When investing in a vehicle like the Ford F-150 Lightning, understanding the warranty and maintenance support is a very good idea. Ford offers a comprehensive warranty package that includes an 8-year or 160,000 km coverage specifically for the battery. This long-term protection ensures that you have peace of mind regarding the longevity of your Ford EV.

To maintain warranty coverage, it’s essential that the Ford Charge Station Pro is installed by a certified electrician. Universal Ford’s electricians handle the installation process, including obtaining necessary permits, especially in older communities. This ensures that your home charging setup is both safe and compliant with warranty requirements.

F-150 Lightning Maintenance

Maintaining the F-150 Lightning is made easier with support from Universal Ford’s EV-savvy technicians. These specialists have the expertise to handle the unique challenges of electric vehicle maintenance in Calgary’s climate. Regular Ford-certified maintenance checks by our qualified technicians can enhance the reliability and longevity of your vehicle.

With robust warranty protection and reliable maintenance support, owning an F-150 Lightning in Calgary makes things easy. Remember to check your app often! It’s your scheduler and health report all in one. Now that you’re up to speed, we’ll explore the towing and payload capabilities of this electric revolutionary.

Towing and Payload Capabilities

The F-150 Lightning offers a towing capacity ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 pounds, depending on the configuration and trim level. Your sales advisor can help you choose the model that best suits your towing needs, making it perfect for hauling trailers or equipment around Calgary.

The Ford F-150 Lightning gets by when it comes to towing and payload capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various needs. Depending on the configuration and trim level, this electric pickup can tow between 5,000 and 10,000 lb.

Interestingly, the aerodynamic design of the trailer has a more significant effect on towing range than the trailer’s weight itself. This means that choosing a well-designed trailer can help maximize your vehicle’s efficiency. However, heavy loads can still halve or even quarter the range of the F-150 Lightning, so it’s essential to plan your trips accordingly.

The F-150 Lightning is equipped with advanced towing technology to make your experience as seamless as possible. Features like a blind-spot monitor for trailers and a smart hitch system for optimal weight distribution are part of its impressive toolkit. The Tow Technology package further assists with trailer management, including a trailer brake controller and Pro Trailer Backup Assist.

Our OEM provides detailed information on towing configurations suitable for Alberta’s blend of work and play, ensuring that you get the most out of your F-150 Lightning. Now that you’re ready to own long-term, we examine the environmental impact of driving this electric powerhouse.

Environmental Impact

One of the most compelling reasons to switch to an electric vehicle like the Ford F-150 Lightning is its positive environmental impact. Alberta’s transition to a coal-free electricity grid since 2023 has significantly reduced the greenhouse gas emissions associated with charging electric vehicles. This shift to natural gas and renewables means that driving an electric vehicle in Calgary is greener than ever before.

The F-150 Lightning itself contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing annual CO2 emissions by 78% compared to its conventional counterpart, the F-150 EcoBoost. This reduction in emissions helps mitigate the environmental impact of daily driving, making it a more eco-friendly choice for Calgarians.

The Peaks to Prairies network, which uses 100% renewable energy, further supports the environmental benefits of electric vehicles. This network not only provides convenient charging options but also ensures that the energy powering your F-150 Lightning comes from sustainable sources.

Overall, the F-150 Lightning’s energy-saving elements enhance comfort while supporting the vehicle’s sustainability by minimizing energy consumption. These environmental advantages make the F-150 Lightning a compelling choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Now that’s covered, we’ll explore the various energy-saving features that this electric pickup has to offer.

Charging Infrastructure in Calgary

Discover the convenience of over 200 public charging stations in Calgary, including fast-charging options. Your sales advisor can guide you to the best charging solutions, ensuring your F-150 Lightning is always ready for the road. Universal Ford also offers private charging solutions tailored to your needs.

Living in Calgary, you’ll be pleased to know that the city is well-equipped with over 200 public electric vehicle charging stations, including more than 50 owned by the city itself. These stations are strategically placed at multiple locations, such as downtown parkades and light rail transit stations, providing convenient options for charging while you go about your day.

For those longer journeys or when you need a quick charge, the Peaks to Prairies EV Charging Network offers 20 fast-charging stations across southern Alberta. Additionally, Petro-Canada has over 20 DC Fast Chargers along Highway 1 and Stoney Trail, which can charge your F-150 Lightning to 80% in just 45 minutes. Plus, there’s always the Blue Oval network, great for Ford owners, with hundreds of stations here in the city.

Universal Ford has enthusiastic EV charging experts, who can point out underutilized chargers located near popular spots like Costco East Hills or Seton YMCA. This can be particularly useful for avoiding busy charging stations and ensuring that you always have access to power when you need it. Furthermore, Universal Ford collaborates with property managers to install shared Level 2 chargers in apartments and condos, making it easier for those living in multi-unit buildings to keep their vehicles charged.

With such a strong charging infrastructure in place, Calgarians can confidently navigate the city and beyond without the constant worry of running out of power.

Energy-Saving Features

The Ford F-150 Lightning is packed with energy-saving features designed to enhance efficiency and extend its driving range. One of the standout features is regenerative braking, which captures kinetic energy during deceleration and converts it back into electrical energy. This system can reclaim up to 70% of the energy typically lost during braking, contributing to a longer driving range.

Heated seats and steering wheels are another energy-saving feature that improves comfort without significantly draining the battery. These components require less energy than heating the entire cabin, making them a more efficient option for staying warm during Calgary’s cold winters.

Universal Ford’s EV specialists optimize the battery management system and demonstrate energy-saving cabin heating strategies to help you get the most out of your F-150 Lightning. Prioritizing heated seats and steering wheel over the cabin HVAC system can conserve energy and extend your vehicle’s range. Great for managing range anxiety if you’re considering ski trips in winter or camping trips in summer!

Next, we’ll explore some local ownership tips to help you get the most out of your F-150 Lightning in Calgary.

Other Calgary F-150 Lightning Ownership Tips

Some things to remember! Owning a Ford F-150 Lightning in Calgary means smart battery management and winter prep are key: plug in overnight, get our help using the FordPass app to precondition your vehicle, and take advantage of Universal Ford’s Winter Ready Check-Up to inspect vital components.

With a home charging solution like the Ford Charge Station Pro, you’re set for any challenge that Calgary’s winter might throw your way, even below -30 degrees Celsius. As you embrace these smart strategies, consider how this shift to proactive, technology-driven vehicle care is paving the way for a new era of electrified mobility—one where efficiency and innovation redefine Calgary commutes and leisure drives.

Test Drive Experience Here at Universal Ford—Just Minutes from Downtown

The Ford F-150 Lightning has features you’ll love from gas-only models too! Ford BlueCruise offers hands-free driving on Canadian highways, enhancing comfort during long trips, and still useful in stop-and-go traffic.

Experiencing the Ford F-150 Lightning firsthand is the best way to understand its capabilities and performance. Universal Ford offers the opportunity to schedule a test drive at our Deerfoot Trail location in Calgary. You’ll definitely want to get a feel for the vehicle’s handling, comfort, and features in real-world conditions.

Taking a winter-ready test drive is particularly valuable for Calgarians. This experience allows you to see how the vehicle performs in cold weather, giving you confidence in its ability to handle Calgary’s winter conditions.

Universal Ford invites customers to explore the capabilities of the F-150 Lightning through a test drive, ensuring that you make an informed decision about your next vehicle purchase. ICE on ice or EVs anywhere any time.

Winter Ready Check-Up

Calgary’s harsh winters demand that your vehicle is in top condition, and a Winter Check-Up at Universal Ford can help to ensure just that. Our service focuses on preparing your F-150 Lightning for cold weather, ensuring all systems are functioning optimally.

The check-up includes inspections of critical components like the battery, tires, and brake system, which are particularly susceptible to winter conditions, and important to preserving your BEV range. Identifying potential problems early on helps prevent them from escalating into more significant issues, ensuring your security and the reliability of your vehicle during Calgary’s cold months.

Every Ford F-150 Lightning purchase needs a winter checkup from Universal Ford. This added service ensures that you can drive confidently through Calgary’s inclement weather, knowing that your new or used EV is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Winter Tires for Your EV

Using winter tires can significantly improve the handling and traction of the F-150 Lightning on snow-covered roads. Universal Ford provides recommendations on the best winter tires to pair with your electric vehicle, enhancing its performance in icy conditions.

Ask Your Sales Advisor for Help Deciding on the Ford F-150 Lightning

Visit Universal Ford in Calgary to explore the latest Ford F-150 Lightning models. Our knowledgeable sales advisors are ready to help you find the perfect electric truck that meets your needs, whether it’s for daily commutes or weekend adventures.

By following local ownership tips and taking advantage of our winterization advice, you can ensure that your F-150 Lightning performs optimally in Calgary’s harshest weather. A test drive will give you firsthand experience of what this electric powerhouse has to offer. Plus, you can ask which of our essential F-150 accessories would most benefit your Lightning.

The Ford F-150 Lightning perfectly blends performance, efficiency, and sustainability to meet Calgary’s driving needs. With outstanding cold weather performance, advanced charging options, and a comprehensive warranty from Universal Ford, it’s engineered to handle urban commutes and adventurous getaways alike. Ready to experience the future of driving? Contact us to schedule a test drive and discover how the F-150 Lightning can transform your journey.

Stuck choosing between the Ford Ranger and the Ford F-150? You’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll provide a side-by-side comparison of these two popular trucks, covering key aspects like pricing, performance, towing capacity, and more.

The F-150 has definitely become a flagship of the Ford make, but the Ranger could be more your speed. From differences in size and power to advanced features, there’s a lot to love about both models. Let’s get you a clear picture of which truck best fits your needs!

Key Decision-Making Criteria for Ford Ranger vs Ford F-150

• The Ford Ranger is more budget-friendly with lower upfront costs and better fuel economy, making it ideal for casual truck users.
• The baser model of the Ranger costs just over $51,000, while the F-150 starts at over $57,000
• The cost to own a Ford F-150 XL Regular Cab is about $14,000 per year, whereas the new Ford Ranger XL SuperCrew 4WD costs over $10,000 per year.
• The 2.3 L Ford Ranger has a fuel consumption rate of 10.7 L/100km, making it a more fuel-efficient option. On the highway it consumes 9.8L/100km.
• In contrast, the smaller displacement Ford F-150 2.7 L has a higher fuel consumption rate of 11.8 L/100km, which increases to 12.4 L/100km when you opt for the 3.5 L V6 turbo.
• For the Ford Ranger, torque is best for towing, with the truck’s highest torque rating reaching up to 400 lb ft with the 2.7 L. Its base engine tows up to 7,500 lb.
• The Ford F-150 stands out with its higher horsepower and torque options, with the most powerful engines delivering up to 570 lb ft of torque with the 3.5 L in particular—and 14,000 lb of towing capacity.
• A used Ford Ranger is considered the best model year in terms of value, retaining 75% of its value after leasing for 3 years.
• Ultimately, your choice between the Ranger and F-150 should reflect your specific needs—whether it’s cost-effectiveness and light duties or versatility in both power and premium features.

Pricing

The Ford Ranger offers a lower entry price point compared to the Ford F-150, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Whereas the baser model of the Ranger costs just over $51,000, the F-150 starts at over $57,000; the lower starting price of the Ranger makes it easier to get into a capable truck without breaking the bank.

While the Ranger is more affordable upfront, the F-150 may provide better overall value for those who need the greatest capabilities out of their trucks. On-road costs for the Ford F-150 are significantly higher due to its larger size and capacity—not the least of which are due to differences in the engine!

Powertrain Options and Performance

Experience the thrill of off-roading with the Ford Ranger! Our knowledgeable sales advisors at Universal Ford are here to help you explore how close you are to performance and adventure-ready capabilities of this midsize pickup.

The engines of the new Ford Ranger and Ford F-150 are a powerful part of a range of powertrain options to suit various driving needs. The Ranger features a turbocharged engine that provides excellent torque and fuel efficiency, making it versatile for both city and off-road driving.

Meanwhile, the F-150 offers multiple engine specs catering to heavy-duty tasks and everyday use. Advanced features like Pro Power Onboard for stationary power needs and an intuitive infotainment system further enhance the F-150’s performance and driving experience.

Engine Varieties

The Ford Ranger offers various engine options, including both petrol and diesel variants, enhancing its adaptability for different driving scenarios. The new Ford Ranger includes a 2.3 L EcoBoost® engine, upgradable to 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 in Lariat trim, balancing power and fuel efficiency, making it a versatile choice for many drivers.

On the other hand, the Ford F-150 features a broader range of engine choices. Its base engine is a reliable 2.7 L EcoBoost® V6, designed for everyday performance. For those seeking more power, the F-150 offers options up to a turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost® V6, and a robust V8, catering to a wide spectrum of performance requirements. The F-150 definitely stands head and shoulders above the others of Ford’s best trucks for its versatility!

Torque and Horsepower

Torque and horsepower significantly impact a truck’s performance, especially in acceleration and towing capabilities. For the Ford Ranger, torque plays a crucial role in towing, with the truck’s highest torque rating reaching up to 400 lb ft with the 2.7 L, enhancing its towing and hauling capabilities.

In comparison, the Ford F-150 stands out with its higher horsepower and torque options. With engines delivering up to 570 lb ft of torque with the 3.5 L, the F-150 offers superior performance metrics for those needing extra power for demanding tasks. This makes the F-150 a performance powerhouse, emphasizing its superiority over the Ranger.

Towing and Payload Capacities

Discover the power and versatility of the Ford F-150! With a maximum towing capacity of up to 14,000 lbs, this truck is built to handle your toughest jobs. Our expert sales advisors at Universal Ford are ready to help you experience the impressive towing capacity and smooth performance of this iconic truck.

In terms of towing and payload capacities, the Ford F-150 leads with an impressive maximum towing capacity of 10,000 lbs when equipped with the Max Trailer Tow Package. The integrated Trailer Brake Controller in the F-150 allows precise adjustment of power to the trailer brakes, enhancing control and safety while towing.

The Ford Ranger in its regular 2.3 L engine, with its considerable torque rating of up to 369 lb ft, is also a strong contender in its class for towing. However, the payload capacities differ significantly, with the Ranger’s maximum towing capacity being 7,500 lb, while the F-150 can tow 10,100 lb with a base engine when towing at full capacity.

These differences highlight the F-150’s superior towing capabilities, making it a better choice for heavy-duty tasks. And with better engine specs, the F-150’s towing capacity gets better and better, to a max of 14,000 lb.

Interior Space and Comfort

Interior space and comfort are vital when choosing a truck, especially for those who spend long hours behind the wheel or travel with passengers. Both the Ford Ranger and F-150 aim to provide a comfortable and spacious environment, but there are notable differences.

Front and Rear Leg Room

The Ford F-150 offers slightly more front legroom than the Ranger, with a maximum of 43.9 inches compared to the Ranger’s 43.1 inches. This extra space can significantly improve driver comfort, especially on longer journeys. Legroom is essential for both drivers and passengers, ensuring everyone has ample space to stretch out and relax.

Rear legroom is also important. The Ford F-150 generally provides more space for rear passengers, making it a more comfortable option for those who frequently travel with multiple occupants. The Ranger, while adequate, has a more compact rear seating area, potentially making it less suitable for long trips.

Head Room and Shoulder Room

Headroom and shoulder room are also crucial for passenger comfort. The Ford F-150 excels here, offering rear head room of 40.4 inches (in SuperCrew) compared to the Ranger’s 38.3 inches. This extra space benefits taller individuals, providing a more comfortable ride.

Shoulder room is equally important to prevent passengers from feeling cramped. The F-150 again leads with more generous dimensions, making it a more spacious option overall.

These aspects highlight the F-150’s emphasis on passenger comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize interior space.

Technology and Infotainment Systems

Experience cutting-edge technology with the Ford Ranger’s impressive 12.4-inch infotainment screen, larger than the one in the F-150. Our knowledgeable sales advisors are here to help you explore this advanced feature and more. Come in for a test drive and see the difference in size for yourself!

Modern trucks are increasingly becoming mobile tech hubs, and the Ford Ranger and F-150 are no exceptions. The Ford Ranger has a 12.4-inch touchscreen, while the F-150 features a slightly smaller 12-inch touchscreen. Despite the size difference, both vehicles utilize Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment software, ensuring a similar user experience.

Connectivity features in both trucks include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, ensuring easy connectivity on the go. The Ford Ranger has 5 USB ports, whereas the F-150 offers 8, providing ample options for charging devices.

These advanced infotainment systems enhance the driving experience by integrating essential modern technology.

Safety Features

Safety is a paramount concern for any vehicle, and both the Ford Ranger and F-150 come with a range of features designed to protect occupants. The Ford Ranger’s Cross Traffic Alert system warns drivers of approaching vehicles from the side when reversing, enhancing safety during maneuvers. And the reverse brake assist feature automatically applies brakes when obstacles are detected, preventing collisions.

The next-gen Ford Ranger includes a far-side airbag to reduce impact between front occupants during a collision. Additionally, the post-collision braking system engages brakes automatically to lessen the risk of secondary impacts after an initial crash.

These safety features, along with adaptive cruise control and a blind spot information system, make the Ranger a safe and reliable choice. For even more advanced safety, Ford Co-Pilot360® is something to look forward to, especially if you’re thinking of an electrified F-150, i.e. the Ford F-150 Lightning.

The Ford F-150 has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick award in recent years for models equipped with specific headlights. The Ford Ranger is an entry to keep an eye on in ratings for future Top Safety Pick awards.

Off-Road Capabilities

For off-road enthusiasts, the Ford Ranger comes with various features that enhance its capabilities. The Terrain Management System adjusts performance for various surfaces like mud, sand, and rocky trails, ensuring optimal performance in different conditions.

The Electronic Locking Rear Diff improves traction by synchronizing the rear wheels during off-road conditions, while Trail Control maintains a consistent speed over obstacles, letting drivers focus on steering.

Hill Descent Control, available in both models, automatically manages speed during steep descents, reducing the risk of rollovers. Underbody skid plates protect the underbody from damage, and off-road tires enhance traction on uneven terrain.

For a more specialized off-road experience, the Ford Ranger Raptor combines speed and agility with its wide stance and advanced suspension, making it easier to navigate narrow trails.

Fuel Economy and Driving Range

Fuel economy is crucial for many truck buyers, and the Ford Ranger and F-150 offer different performance in this area. The 2.3 L Ford Ranger has a fuel consumption rate of 10.7 L/100km, making it a more fuel-efficient option. On the highway the Ranger consumes 9.8L/100km, matching the F-150.

In contrast, the smaller displacement Ford F-150 2.7 L has a higher fuel consumption rate of 11.8 L/100km, which increases to 12.4 L/100km when you opt for the 3.5 L V6 turbo. The Ranger can go 605 kilometres in 2.7 L, contributing to a respectable driving range.

But the 3.5 L F-150 can go up to 1101km thanks to a bigger tank. These figures highlight the Ranger’s superior fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for those concerned with on-road costs.

Cargo and Storage Solutions

The Ford Ranger’s cargo area is equipped with 400w outlets, perfect for powering tools or devices on the go, and webbing with cargo hooks to keep your items secure. These features make the Ranger a versatile and practical choice for both work and adventure. We have to give the Ranger the edge here!

Cargo and storage solutions are essential for any truck owner, and the Ford Ranger and F-150 offer innovative features to meet diverse needs.

The Ranger features a 400 W outlet in the truck bed for powering multiple devices like lighting sets and 120V power bars for multiple devices like phones and laptops, along with LED bed lighting to assist with loading in low-light conditions. On the other hand, the Ford F-150 has Pro Power Onboard, for multiple outlets that can be 120V or 240V configurations.

The Ranger also features integrated tie-downs and sliding cleats in the Ranger’s cargo box allow for secure cargo management.

The Ford F-150 includes a lockable storage box under the rear seat, large door bins, and a fold-down armrest with cup holders, providing additional storage solutions. Both the Ranger and F-150 offer practical cargo features designed for ease of use and functionality, catering to a wide range of user needs.

Long-Term Ownership Costs

Long-term ownership costs include both maintenance and insurance expenses. The estimated maintenance and repair costs for a used Ford F-150 over its first decade aren’t something to ignore, but there’s always residual value. A used Ford Ranger is considered the best model year in terms of value, retaining 75% of its value after leasing.

Despite higher initial and running costs, the F-150 generally retains a higher resale value compared to the Ford Ranger, which can be a big factor for long-term owners seeking maximum return on their investment. The cost to own a Ford F-150 XL Regular Cab is about $14,000 per year, whereas the new Ford Ranger XL SuperCrew 4WD costs about $10,000 per year to run all in.

Which Truck is Right for You?

Deciding between the Ford Ranger and Ford F-150 depends on your specific needs, driving environment, and long-term ownership plans. If you prioritize a lower entry price and better fuel economy, the Ford Ranger may be the better choice. It’s a practical option for those needing a versatile truck without the added bulk and cost of the F-150.

It’s a tough choice, but perhaps easier to make than the choice between the Ranger and Maverick; ultimately if you require more power, towing capacity, and interior space, the Ford F-150 stands out as the superior choice. It offers a broader range of engine options, higher horsepower, and torque, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks. But it’s got the associated costs, upfront and down the road.

Additionally, the F-150’s higher resale value (higher according to our used inventory) and advanced safety features make it a wise investment for long-term ownership. So, which truck will you choose to conquer your next adventure?

Visit Universal Ford to Test Drive the Ranger and the F-150 Today!

When choosing between the Ford Ranger and the Ford F-150 in Tremor trim, consider factors like size, payload capacity, off-road capabilities, and price. Ultimately, scheduling a test drive is the best way to determine which truck suits your needs.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you choose the Ford Ranger or the Ford F-150, both trucks promise to deliver a reliable and enjoyable driving experience. Plus, our flexible financing options can help make your dream truck more affordable.

Ready to experience the power and performance of Ford’s top trucks? Book back-to-back test drives of the Ford Ranger and Ford F-150 today! Feel the torque, test the towing capabilities, and see firsthand why these trucks are leaders in their class. Schedule your test drives now and get ready to make the choice that’s right for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Ford Ranger or F-150?

Choosing between the Ford Ranger and the Ford F-150 depends on your specific needs. The Ford Ranger is a midsize truck, ideal for those who need a versatile and agile vehicle with standout infotainment screen and practical cargo features. Better, for you, might mean lighter and feature-rich.

On the other hand, the Ford F-150 offers greater towing capacity and more power, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks and versatile specs. It may also last you longer! Both trucks have their strengths, so the best way to decide is to schedule a test drive at our Calgary dealership and experience them firsthand. For many, it comes down to costs.

If residual value is your concern, the Ranger is better pound for pound, but neither hold superior resale value quite like the Ford Bronco; it’s a similarly a tough choice to make much like the one between the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport—and resale value is just one part of the equation.

What are the cons of a Ford Ranger?

While the Ford Ranger is a versatile and capable midsize truck, it does have some drawbacks. The ride quality can be a bit unsettled over uneven pavement, and the in-cabin and truck bed storage is less than the F-150.

For those needing more off-road capability or a smoother ride, the Ford F-150 might be a better choice, offering a more refined suspension and advanced features like the Pro Power Onboard generator for a longer lasting power station.

How long will a Ford Ranger engine last?

A well-maintained Ford Ranger engine can last between 320,000 to 400,000 kilometers. However, if you’re looking for a truck with even greater longevity and power, the Ford F-150 is a strong contender. Its robust build and advanced engineering often allow it to exceed these mileage benchmarks.

On the other hand, a well-maintained Ford F-150 engine can last between 320,000 and 480,000 km. This longevity is due to its robust build and advanced engineering. If you’re looking for a truck with exceptional durability as much as power, the F-150 is a great choice.

To determine which truck best suits your needs, come in for a test drive at Universal Ford in Calgary.