 OK, I purchased a Ford Ranger in the worst year for Ford.  I previously owned a 2003 Ranger XL.  I liked the little truck, but it just would not move.  I moved to big truck, but found the gas mileage to be too bad.  I went back and found a used 2006 Ranger XL with 2500 miles.  This truck is much better than my 2003.  It has the same motor, but the gearing must have changed.  It still gets moderate gas mileage (I hope it gets better after 10,000 miles and the motor breaks in.)  Ford did a much better job with the seats.  I still have vinyl, but they sit much better.  The transmission shifts smoother.  Overall the 2006 is much better than the 2003.