Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger Which is the better choice?
We are diving into a frequent head-to-head comparison in the mid-size truck segment, the Toyota Tacoma vs. the Ford Ranger. While these mid-sized trucks do share a lot of similiarities, there are many defining factors that set one apart from the other. While the Ford Ranger may check the boxes for some, the Toyota Tacoma stands out as the better choice for many. We are going to review some of the key factors that make consumers sway towards one model over the other. Let's dive in!
Toyota Tacoma Performance & Power
Powertrain
The Tacoma gas model is equipped with a 2.4L turbo 4-cyl. engine, the Ranger is equipped with a 2.3L turbo 4-cyl. engine.
Horsepower
The Tacoma's gas engine produces 278 HP w/ 317 lb.-ft. of torque, while the Ranger produces 270 HP w/ 310 lb.-ft. of torque. For extra power, the Tacoma Hybrid powertrain produces 326 HP w/ 465 lb.-ft. of torque.
Towing Capacity
The Tacoma gas model has a max payload of 1,505 lbs. & towing capacity of 6,400 lbs. The Hybrid model provides more capability w/ max payload of 1,680 & towing capacity of 6,780. The Ranger ouperforms the Tacoma's towing capabilities w/ max payload of 1,805 lbs. & towing capacity of 7,500 lbs.
Toyota Tacoma Fuel Efficiency & Hybrid Options
Robust Hybrid Options
The Tacoma dominates the competitor in the hybrid powertrain segment. The Tacoma has 11 unique trims, 5 of which are hybrid.
Fuel Efficiency
The Tacoma excels in fuel efficiency, thanks to its hybrid model. The gas model sits at 19/24/21 MPG for city/hwy/combined, the Ranger sits at this same estimated MPG. If you are looking for better MPG, the Tacoma hybrid models clock in with a 22/24/23 estimated MPG.
The Hybrid Advantage
The Tacoma has 5 hybrid options catering to a variety of different lifestyles. The hybrid trims include: TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro. The Tacoma has a trim option for everyone. The Ford Ranger does not offer a hybrid powertrain.
Toyota Tacoma Technology & Connectivity
Multimedia
The Tacoma is equipped with a standard 8" multimedia display with a 4 speaker audio system and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Dependant on the trim level, a 14" multimedia screen becomes standard or option upgrade. When accompanied w/ JBL audio, a wireless JBL speaker is included. While the Ranger does have a larger 10" media screen as the standard, the display is vertically aligned. The Ranger's largest available multimedia screen is 12" standard on top two trim levels.
Toyota Tacoma Safety & Value
The Tacoma comes standard with Toyota's suite of safety features including: Pre-Collision System w/ Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert w/ Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Auto High Beams, Blind Spot Monitor w/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Proactive Driving Assist. Front and Rear Parking Assist w/ Auto Braking is available as an add on.
With the purchase of a New Toyota Tacoma comes 2 years/25,000 miles of complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance.
