It’s a given in the auto industry that Toyota does a lot of things incredibly well, and one of those things is making the best small and midsize trucks. The Tacoma has been a favorite of off-road fanatics near Fort Worth for decades because it has excellent specs, as well as a rock-solid reputation for being basically unkillable.
But, in recent years, there’ve been a few strong contenders who have risen to take the crown. Perhaps the strongest among these is the Ford Ranger. So, has Ford finally unseated Toyota as the king of the hill in terms of making the finest midsize trucks? We’re about to find out.
Tacoma vs. Ranger: Engines
First, let’s check out the different powertrains these trucks have available. The 2025 Tacoma can be optioned with two different engines:
- i-FORCE 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder
- 278 horsepower
- 317 pound-feet of torque
- i-FORCE MAX 2.4-L Turbo 4-Cylinder Hybrid
- 326 horsepower
- 465 pound-feet of torque
Meanwhile, the 2025 Ranger has three available motors to choose from:
- 2.3L EcoBoost
- 270 horsepower
- 310 pound-feet of torque
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6
- 315 horsepower
- 400 pound-feet of torque
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6
- 405 horsepower
- 430 pound-feet of torque
Overall, the Tacoma comes with a more powerful base engine, and its i-FORCE MAX engine has the most available torque of the pair, which gives it a massive edge in terms of acceleration and off-roading prowess. On the other hand, the Ranger’s 3.0L engine has the most horsepower, but it’s only available on the most expensive trim, and the 2.7L engine doesn’t come standard in any models.
Tacoma vs. Ranger: Towing and Payload
Since towing and payload are two of the most prevalent ways to measure a truck’s capability, this is an important thing to consider for shoppers.
In terms of towing, the Ranger has the advantage. It’s capable of towing up to 7,500 pounds, whereas the Tacoma maxes out at 6,500 pounds. However, it’s worth noting that to unlock the Ranger’s max towing, you’ll need to buy the available Trailer Tow Package. Without that upgrade, it can only tow 3,500 pounds.
Plus, of course, if you really need to tow a serious amount of weight, you’ll need to upgrade to a full-size truck like the Tundra.
Payload specs are a lot closer. The Tacoma has a max payload of 1,705 pounds, while the Ranger’s payload is 1,788 pounds. So, while the Ranger has a small lead, they’re effectively neck-and-neck.
Tacoma vs. Ranger: Off-Road
Both trucks come quite capable for off-roading at any trim level, but they also have dedicated off-road trims that enhance capability.
For backcountry aficionados, the Ranger Raptor is your best bet. It comes standard with the most powerful engine and 4WD, plus other features like a locking rear differential, upgraded shocks and suspension, additional selectable drive modes, and Trail Control.
On the other hand, the Tacoma has a range of grades at multiple price points that cater to adventure seekers. The top two grades are the Trailhunter and TRD Pro. Like the Ranger Raptor, both have the most powerful engine (i-FORCE MAX), 4WD, locking differentials, beefed-up shocks and suspension, extra off-road oriented drive modes, and more. They also come with a few more thoughtful features, including extra underbody protection, and for the Trailhunter, even an onboard bed-mounted air compressor.
Even the lower grades of Tacoma will give the Ranger Raptor a run for its money, so the Tacoma remains the discerning choice for the best off-road truck.
Tacoma vs. Ranger: Dimensions
One major difference between the two is that the Tacoma has two available bed lengths, while the Raptor only has one. The Raptor’s measures 59.6 inches long, while the Tacoma has the option of either a 60.3-inch bed or a 73.5-inch bed. Either way, the Tacoma takes the W for cargo box dimensions.
The Tacoma also has two cab lengths compared to the Ranger’s single options. For their five-seater options, they have nearly identical head room, but the Ranger has slightly more legroom and the Tacoma has more shoulder room.
With multiple available body styles, the Tacoma proves itself to be far more customizable, which makes it a stronger contender compared to the Ranger.
Tacoma vs. Ranger: Technology
Both trucks come with an array of modern technologies that elevate the passenger experience. The Ranger comes standard with a 10.0-inch center stack screen, while higher trims come with an upgraded 12.0-inch screen. All trims come with Applink®, FordPass Connect with in-vehicle Wi-Fi, and multiple USB ports, and upper-level trims also get SiriusXM®, wireless device charging, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
The Tacoma gets either an 8.0-inch or a massive 14.0-inch center screen, depending on the grade. Both infotainment systems come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, SiriusXM®, dual USB charging ports, and the full range of Toyota connected Services including Wi-Fi. Additional upgrades include a 12.3-inch digital driver info center, wireless phone charging, and a JBL® audio system with a portable Bluetooth speaker that mounts in the passenger dashboard.
There’s no doubt that the Ranger provides a plush and tech-forward experience, but the Tacoma has larger available screens and more standard features. Plus, that portable speaker is seriously cool.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger: Who Wins?
The Ranger is an impressive pickup, and it even has a leg up on the Tacoma in certain categories like towing capacity and available horsepower. But, for 2025, Toyota retains its status as the maker of the best light duty trucks. Better luck next year, Ford.
If you’re in the market for your next Tacoma, Family Toyota of Arlington has an excellent selection of new models for sale, as well as special offers on Toyota trucks including low APR financing and Toyota lease deals.
If you’d like to schedule a test drive, contact us online or call us today at (682) 418-3310.
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