To Ford truck fans — or anyone in the market for a smaller pickup than available full-size models like the F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 — your wait is finally over. That’s because the 2019 Ford Ranger marks the return of the Blue Oval brand’s small truck back to the U.S. market. The previous generation disappeared after the 2011 model year, and the truck world had been a lonelier place ever since.

From Cars.com: Was it worth the wait? For the most part, yes. Without giving the game away, the new Ranger is an extremely strong competitor to its closest rivals, which include the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Jeep Gladiator, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma. On the road and during our test drive of two Rangers in different trim levels, we found the driving dynamics have more in common with a comfy SUV versus a rough-riding work truck.

That’s not to imply the Ranger can’t get the job done. A class-leading payload capacity and strong tow rating put this Ford toward the head of its class. And while the Ranger offers only one choice of engine and transmission, the one it offers is very good.

You can find our full review of the 2019 Ford Ranger by Cars.com’s Aaron Bragman via the related link above, but for the lowdown on this truck’s highlights, keep reading. We’ve also listed a few items that hold the Ranger back from being a knockout punch to the competition.