The Ford Ranger isn’t just another pick-up. The latest model, called the “Next Gen”, feels far more grown-up than older Rangers. It’s smarter inside, more refined on the road and impressively capable when the tarmac runs out.
But is it right for you?
Let’s talk about who it’s for, why you’d buy one and how to get the very best out of it, including whether fitting something like a next gen ranger snorkel makes sense for your setup.
Who Is the Next Gen Ranger Designed For?
Despite how common it’s become, the Ranger isn’t for everyone. Of course, anyone who wants it can buy it, but it’s geared more towards people with demanding lifestyles:
- Trades & Working Professionals
Builders, landscapers, agricultural contractors—people who genuinely need towing strength, payload capacity or a vehicle that doesn’t mind mud.
While it can handle the work week without complaint, the Ranger doesn’t feel agricultural inside (like older pick-ups do). The cabin now rivals most SUVs in terms of comfort and tech.
- Outdoor & Adventure Types
If your weekends involve camping, green-laning, towing a caravan, launching a boat or other outdoorsy tasks, then a Ranger makes a lot of sense.
With a perfect blend of everyday usability and proper off-road ability, you can commute Monday through Friday and disappear into the wilderness on Saturday.
- People Who Tow A Lot
With serious towing capacity, the Ranger can transport track cars, boats, horse boxes or large trailers. And crucially, it feels stable doing it.
Why Buy a Ranger Instead of an SUV?
Let’s be honest. An SUV might look tough, but a Ranger is built for the actual graft.
You get a proper 4×4 system and a stronger chassis for towing. On top of that, there’s a separate load bed that keeps the mud out.
It’s built for tougher environments, yet somehow it’s quieter, smoother and more refined than previous versions. You do not have to compromise comfort for capability.
Choosing Mods with Purpose
This is where things get interesting.
Yes, it’s tempting to bolt on every accessory available—lift kits, roof racks, light bars—purely for looks. But the smartest builds are capable and functional—all-terrain tyres, sensible ride height, and yes, perhaps a snorkel.
The key is balance. Modify for how you actually use the vehicle.
When a Snorkel Actually Makes Sense
Ranger owners add snorkels not only to chase horsepower. On a modern turbo diesel, the extra power might feel subtle on the motorway.
Where it makes the most impact is protection. So, if you regularly:
- Travel abroad for overlanding trips
- Drive flooded country lanes
- Work on dusty building sites
- Cross shallow streams while green-laning
A snorkel raises the air intake higher up the vehicle so there’s less risk of water ingestion. It also keeps heavy dust from entering the system. For the right owner, it’s sensible protection. For the wrong one, it’s just extra wind noise.
Buy it for what it can do and then actually let it do it. Check out Torqit for some of the best stainless-steel snorkel and airbox, and bring your Next-Gen Ranger to its full potential.
