Is a new Ranger in my future?

I'm wanting to buy a new small truck to replace my '98 Jeep TJ. Since I recently started working rather far away from home, I'm now putting

2000km/week on the Jeep which is costing me a fortune in gas. Mainly I'm looking for a commuting vehicle for just me with an occasional need to haul lumber from the store, canoes to the river and loads to the dump. On occasion I'll need to also transport my two young (older than car seat) kids.

My driving conditions are mainly straight highway in Ontario, Canada between the snow belt and Toronto.

My question is - would a 2004 I4 2WD Ranger work for me? I've sat in one at a dealer and it was comfortable enough. What I'm mainly worried about is will it wear out before I pay for it. Also, I know I can't get limited slip on the small engine, should I have a locker installed for those times when the snow's really deep, or when I'm driving up a boat ramp?

Thanks

Andrew Butchart snipped-for-privacy@floatingbear.ca

Reply to
Andrew Butchart
Loading thread data ...

Why not just keep what you have for the errands and buy yourself a small car to do the commuting in?

Reply to
Chris Hill

Typically the added cost of a 4WD is mostly returned when you resell the vehicle. Check

formatting link
for the difference. The added cost will be well worth it during the first snow or the first time you can't get up the boat ramp. If you can find it in your budget, get the 4WD. Also, the loss of fuel mileage with a larger engine is many times not significant. Check that out before you underpower your truck. With all the above said, I doubt that you will be saving any fuel over your Jeep.

Reply to
Mellowed

The I4 will disapoint you for towing - you'll need the 3.0 V6 to avoid struggling off the ramp.

The Ranger (V6) does get lousy gas milage if you run much above 75 mph (got better with the F-150 in fact), and the speed is limited at 90 mph which sounds fine but can really get your heart racing in some overtaking situations!

Reply to
ROBBCWZ

Thanks everyone for your input. I have lots more research to do still I think.

Reply to
Andrew Butchart

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.