The 2022 Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck available in three trims—XL, XLT, and Lariat. Read on to learn the differences between the XL and XLT trims levels before you make your choice.

The midsize Ford Ranger is a nice middle ground for people who want a truck, but don’t want something as large or as fiercely capable as the F-150. It can still get plenty of rough and tumble truck stuff done but with a far more attractive price tag starting at $27,495 to $35,015. Wondering what the difference is between the XL and XLT trims of the Ford Ranger? You’ve come to the right place.

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2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: the basics

The Ford truck family may be dominated by the mighty F150, but the midsize Ford Ranger has been holding its own since 1982. If you’ve decided that the Ranger is the truck for you but are stuck between the XL and the XLT trim levels, two main differences are immediately clear:

Pricing: The XL is the base trim level, and starts at $27,425. The middle XLT trim starts at $31,475.

Features: As you would expect, you get more available and standard features—both for form and functionality—when you move up trim levels to the XLT.

Although the two trim levels are pretty similar, some important details are good to know when you’re choosing the one for you! Read on for a run-down on the XL vs. the XLT trim levels of the Ford Ranger.

2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: power & performance

So let’s start things off with a look under the hood, shall we? Here’s one area where the choice is easy because there isn’t one: there’s just a single engine available on the Ranger. But don’t worry—it’s a good one.

Both the 2022 Ranger XL and XLT have the same 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A ten-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board, but you have the choice between rear or four-wheel drive for either trim level. Previous years of the Ranger have had a V6 option, but it’s not available for the 2022 model year.

So how’s the gas mileage? The EPA estimates that the Ranger will get around 21 to 23 mpg combined, depending on whether you have rear or all-wheel drive. Adding on the off-road-ready Tremor Package (more on that later) will cause your fuel economy to dip to 19 mpg combined.

MORE:How to build a custom Ford Ranger

2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: interior & storage

The Ranger comes in two cab options, both of which can be had at either trim level. Both the SuperCab and the larger SuperCrew will accommodate five people. Both cab styles have four doors, but the SuperCrew has four full-size doors, while the SuperCab only has two full-size with two smaller doors in the back.

Depending on what cab you choose, you’ll have the option of a five-foot or six-foot bed. Here are some exterior specs:

Spec	2022 Ford Ranger XL	2022 Ford Ranger XLT
Wheelbase	126.8 inches	126.8 inches
Length	210.8 inches	210.8 inches
Bed length	60 to 72 inches	60 to 72 inches
Bed volume	43.4 to 51.8 cubic feet	43.4 to 51.8 cubic feet

Notice a trend yet? When it comes to exterior dimensions, the two trim levels are the same. In terms of interior dimensions, the difference lies not in the trim level but in the cab size you pick. Here’s how it breaks down:

Dimension	2022 Ford Ranger SuperCab	2022 Ford Ranger CrewCab
Headroom (front/rear)	39.8 inches/35.9 inches	39.8 inches/38.3inches
Legroom (front/rear)	43.1 inches/30.4 inches	43.1 inches/34.5 inches

As you can see, the dimensions of the front seat stay the same, and opting for the larger CrewCab will get you more space in the back. If you regularly have back seat passengers that aren’t small kids, then the CrewCab might be a better choice.

MORE:How to choose and replace Ford Ranger windshield wipers

2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: technology and features

They say the devil is in the details, and here’s where they start to emerge between the trim levels. The XL trim level is pretty spartan when it comes to standard tech. There’s almost no end to the options you can add, but you’ll have to pay extra for all of them.

On the other hand, the XLT trim comes considerably more well-appointed. Here’s a grab bag of some of the assorted features that come standard on the XLT trim, but not on the XL:

Cruise control

Overhead storage console

8” LCD touchscreen

Automatic high beams

Lane-keeping assist

Dual-zone automatic temperature control

Remote keyless entry

Ford Co-Pilot 360 Technology Package

In addition, the XLT trim level offers a myriad of cosmetic upgrades that aren’t available on the XL, like extra wheel choices, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more. If you’re just looking for a base-level truck at a friendly price, then the XL will accommodate you. But if you like more features and functionality, then it’ll likely be worth it to move up a trim level to the XLT.

MORE:Ford Ranger towing capacity

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2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: towing & off-roading

As far as towing goes, both the XL and XLT trim can tow a maximum of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, and the payload capacity is also the same at 1,860 pounds.

However, when it comes to maximizing your off-road capability, the XLT trim has a clear edge. If you’re serious about taking your Ranger off-road, you’re going to want to purchase the Tremor Off-Road Package—which is not available on the XL trim.

Features of the Tremor Off-Road Package include:

Modified off-road suspension

Front and rear tow hooks

Trail Control System

Terrain Management System

Painted alloy wheels

Off-road hoop-step style running boards

This package also requires the Sport Package Upgrade as well, adding almost $6,000 to your purchase price. But depending on how much time you plan on spending off the beaten path, it may be worth it.

2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: safety

In crash tests, both trims of the 2022 Ranger earned the same overall 4/5 stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Side crash ratings for the Ranger were 5/5 stars, while the rollover rating was just a 3/5. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2022 Ford Ranger gets an overall rating of “good”, which is the highest rating available.

These crash test ratings don’t change across trims, but the safety and driver assistance features will. Both trims come with aspects of Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 Technology, and standard features on both include pre-collision assist with automated emergency braking, a rearview camera, and Curve Control.

Upgrade to the XLT trim, and you also get:

Blind Spot Information System

Automatic high beams

Lane-keeping system

These features are available in the XL trim, but you have to pay more for them. There are even more optional safety features available on both trims, like reverse and forward sending technology, and adaptive cruise control.

MORE:How to install a truck cap on your pickup

2022 Ford Ranger XL vs. 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: reliability

This one’s easy too, as there is no difference in reliability between these two trim levels. Here’s what you need to know.

The 2022 Ranger earned a score of 85/100 on quality and reliability from J.D. Power, which ranks it in the “great” category. JD. Power also placed the Ranger at number one when it comes to midsize pickups. RepairPal gives the Ranger a 4/5 (above average) score for reliability, and rates the cost, frequency, and severity of needed repairs as being about average when compared to similar midsize trucks.

Which is better: XL or XLT?

If you’re looking for an economical midsize truck that’s reliable and will get the job done, then the base-level XL trim will likely suffice. If you like more technology and features and/or want to maximize your off-roading potential, then upgrading to the XLT is a must.

At the end of the day, it’s really up to you!

MORE:The top 10 cheapest trucks to insure

How to find cheap car insurance for your Ford Ranger

No matter what trim level you choose, your truck won’t be ready to get to work without the right

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