Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2001

Small Pickup

Winner: Ford Ranger

Now that the Explorer's proven 205-horsepower, 4.0-liter SOHC V6 is available, we have even more to like about our nation's best-selling compact pickup. We've always considered the Ranger a handsome truck - a crisp new face (new grille, headlights and lower fascia) and deeply creased wheel arches make it even more alluring. Get behind the wheel of this truck, and you'll note the excellent handling and the nearly flawless ergonomic layout in the cabin. Furthermore, the Ranger is still the only compact pickup to offer four-door access to its extended cabs. Buyers still have three engine choices, and all can be paired with two- or four-wheel drive and a manual or an automatic transmission, except for the optional Explorer powerplant, which must have an autobox. Four-cylinder models will seem more appealing when a 134-horsepower, 2.3-liter inline four arrives later in the model year. Buyers need not limit themselves to XL or XLT trim anymore, as the mid-level Edge version squeezes between the two - Edge includes color-matched bumpers and larger wheels and tires. All trim levels are available with regular and extended cabs. If you opt for the regular cab, you can pair it with the 6- or the 7-foot bed; SuperCabs only get the 6-foot bed. For those who need a small, reliable hauler that embraces the demands of urban living (while making itself at home in the wild), the Ranger offers a satisfying package.