Comprehensive IIHS Crash Test Performance
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) put the reintroduced 2019 Ford Ranger through its rigorous crash testing protocol, providing consumers with crucial safety data on Ford's revived midsize pickup. The evaluation focused exclusively on the crew cab configuration, as the SuperCab variant wasn't included in testing.
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Advanced Safety Technology Assessment
The 2019 Ranger's standard front crash prevention system earned IIHS's "Superior" rating - the highest possible - in collision avoidance testing. This system combines forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, demonstrating:
- 100% collision avoidance in 12 mph track tests
- Average speed reduction of 24 mph in 25 mph scenarios
- Consistent performance in both daylight and low-light conditions
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The Headlight Controversy
This issue isn't unique to Ford - many manufacturers struggle with IIHS's stringent headlight requirements. Several automakers, including Hyundai with its 2019 Tucson, have implemented mid-cycle updates specifically to address IIHS headlight concerns.
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Competitive Landscape: How the Ranger Stacks Up
When compared against other midsize and full-size pickups, the 2019 Ranger's safety performance stands out in several key areas:
| Model | Overall Rating | Passenger-Side Small Overlap | Headlight Rating | Crash Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Ford Ranger | Good (5/6 tests) | Acceptable | Marginal | Superior |
| Chevrolet Colorado | Marginal | Poor | Marginal | Advanced |
| GMC Canyon | Marginal | Poor | Marginal | Advanced |
| Honda Ridgeline | Top Safety Pick | Acceptable | Good (top trims only) | Superior |
| Ford F-150 | Good (all tests) | Good | Poor | Superior |
Key Competitive Takeaways
- GM's Midsize Struggles: The Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon showed significant structural deformation in passenger-side small overlap tests, resulting in "Poor" ratings that dragged down their overall scores.
- Honda's Headlight Advantage: The Ridgeline secured a Top Safety Pick designation primarily due to available "Good"-rated headlights on premium trims, despite some "Marginal" subtest ratings.
- F-150's Benchmark Performance: Ford's full-size pickup achieved "Good" ratings across all six crashworthiness tests - a distinction no other full-size or midsize truck matched.
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Practical Implications for Truck Buyers
For consumers prioritizing safety in their pickup purchase decision, these IIHS results suggest several important considerations:
Aftermarket Lighting Solutions
The Ranger's marginal headlight rating doesn't necessarily preclude it from being a safe choice. Many owners successfully address illumination concerns with:
- DOT-approved auxiliary lighting systems
- Professional headlight alignment adjustments
- High-quality bulb upgrades (where compatible)
Safety vs. Awards
While Top Safety Pick recognition provides valuable validation, the Ranger's core crashworthiness remains strong. Buyers should weigh:
- Real-world crash protection (where the Ranger excels)
- Collision avoidance technology (a Ranger strength)
- Potential for future headlight improvements from Ford
Segment Context
In the competitive midsize truck market, the Ranger offers:
- Better structural integrity than GM's offerings
- More consistent crash protection than the award-winning Ridgeline
- Superior standard safety tech compared to most rivals
