Detroit LIVE: 2019 Ford Ranger revealed

The Ranger nameplate returns after an eight year absence.

After a eight year absence, the Ranger is officially back in the Ford lineup. The automaker has revealed the new mid-size pickup ahead of its official debut at the Detroit Auto Show.

All 2019 Ford Rangers will, for now, come with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though Ford did not disclose actual figures, we can make an educated guess based on the powertrain's other applications. The turbocharged four-cylinder makes 310 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque when used in the Mustang.

The Ranger will come in two cab configurations, SuperCab and SuperCrew. Three trim levels — XL, XLT, and Lariat — will be made available, as will two appearance packages called Chrome and Sport.

Cabin-wise, main accessory controls will be accessed via an 8-inch touchscreen with Ford's third-generation Sync system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an Alexa interface. 4G LTE is available for ten devices. B&O designed the optional premium audio system, and AC outlets are available inside the cabin.

An available off-road package features Ford's Terrain Management System, which can switch between four modes depending on the road surface, altering throttle response and transmission shift points. Meanwhile, Trail Control allows for low-speed crawls by powering or braking each wheel individually, and there is an available electronic locking rear differential as well.

Overall, the specs seem to depict a thoroughly modern truck, with the creature comforts and connected technologies one comes to expect from a contemporary vehicle. It's a light year leap from the last Ranger offered on US shores, and proves Ford is once again serious about a segment it once ceded to the Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado and Nissan Frontier.