Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger: Look At The Strongest Points of Each Truck

Two of the most successful models on the American continent are the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Ranger trucks. These are two distinct pick-up trucks that have prevailed in different markets for years. On one side, Japanese engineering prevails in the Toyota Tacoma, while in the other corner, North American power prevails in Ford Ranger.

In the case of the Toyota Tacoma, it shares its strategy with the Toyota Hilux, since in general terms, both are distributed in the countries where they are offered. In North America, Tacoma has high approval ratings, while in the rest of the continent, its sister performs with very good sales.

For today, we have just chosen the most complete pick-ups of each brand to see their main characteristics. In the case of the Tacoma, let's look at the TRD Pro variant, the most exclusive configuration, with a special preparation.

Features of this version include black TRD Pro logo trimmed front seats with 10-way driver adjustment, LED headlights, blind spot and cross traffic alert system, JBL audio system, custom exhaust system, FOX shock absorbers, TRD stamping on the box, skid plates and a spoiler. This variant of the Toyota Tacoma also comes with electronic locking rear differential, TRD Pro graphic, Multiterrain selection, cruise control, suspension modifications, special fog lights, dual-zone climate control, power rear window, sunroof, Toyota package Safety Sense, reversing camera, leather upholstery, multimedia system with eight-inch screen, terrain selector, slope assistance, seven airbags, stability and traction control, among others.

Under the hood, the new Tacoma TRD Pro has a 278 HP 3.5-liter V6 engine, while the transmission can be a six-speed manual or automatic. Traction is 4x4 with high and low.

Now, its main rival, the Ford Ranger also has its own to battle at the top of the segment. For this opportunity we will select the Lariat variant with the Tremor package. In fact, this is why Torque News Ford report Jimmy Dinsmore thinks that Ford Ranger is better than the Toyota Tacoma. However, there is the opposite view too. Torque News Toyota reporter Jeff Teague presents at least 3 reasons Toyota Tacoma is superior to Ford Ranger.

The engine is represented by a 270 hp 2.3 Ecoboost engine, associated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Traction is 4x4.

In equipment, the new Ford Ranger features independent front suspension, special Fox shock absorbers, special graphics, automatic headlights, LED headlights, tow hooks, parking sensors, forward and rear gear detection system. Inside the Ranger comes with dual zone climate control, 110V outlet, 4 instrumentation, 2-inch, 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3, Pre-Collision Assist with Auto Brake, Blind Spot System, Ambient Lighting, Auto High Beams, Locking Glove Box, Cruise Control, Lane Keeping System, Outside Temperature Display, multifunction steering wheel, multi-position seats, Ford Co-Pilot 360°, reversing camera, six airbags, tire pressure system, post-collision system, remote start system, among others.

So, which of these two pickup trucks you like the most and why? Please, let us know in the comments section below.

From a price point of view, both trucks are very competitive. Toyota Tacoma is less expensive than the Ford Ranger. Tacoma is offered at $46,685 MSRP while the Ford Ranger's price reaches $48,380 MSRP.

Also, check out my previous story of Toyota preparing to launch a cheap alternative to Tesla Model Y by the end of 2022 with a competitive price.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.

Images by Toyota and Ford.
Reference MDZol.