Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2020 Ford Ranger SL
The 2020 Ford Ranger SL is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 7.3/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.9/10. It's a capable but unexceptional truck — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 7.0/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety lands at 7.9/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.4/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. At 7.0/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $39,897–$51,040, 20 MPG, seating 5, the Ford Ranger SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. At 7.1/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 6 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: The 2020 Ford Ranger SL sits in the middle of the field. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2020 Ford Ranger SL ranks #298 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 42% of the segment. Its 7.3/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $39,897 starting price is about 14% above the segment's median of $35,138.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Ranger SL Year Should You Buy?
Across the Ranger SL model years we've scored, the 2020 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 20 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2020 Ford Ranger SL
Is the 2020 Ford Ranger SL reliable?
We rate the 2020 Ford Ranger SL's reliability 7.0/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2020 Ford Ranger SL worth buying?
It scores 7.3/10 overall, ranking #298 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 42% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2020 Ford Ranger SL cost?
The 2020 Ford Ranger SL starts at $39,897 and ranges up to $51,040 across trims (MSRP when new). At 20 MPG, expect roughly $2,625/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Ranger SL years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 7 Ranger SL model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.6/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Ford Ranger SL
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More Ford Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Ford models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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