Toyota Tacoma Or Ford Ranger: Compare Specs, Price & Capability

Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger at a Glance
- Side by side, the Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger are two very similar midsize pickup trucks.
- The Ford Ranger is powerful, comfortable, and well-equipped, but it does not come with some of the key Tacoma features.
- The Toyota Tacoma has a manual transmission option, multiple bed-length and cab configurations, and a hybrid engine upgrade.
- Explore the beloved "Taco" today at McGee Toyota of Epping.

Comparing the 2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger
As the midsize truck segment rises in popularity, competition between trucks is stiff; in the case of the 2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger, you'll have to look at several key distinctions to make an informed decision.
At the end of the day, after diving into this guide, scouring online forums, or speaking with a sales team member, you might still be on the fence. That is perfectly understandable; both the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger models are shining stars in the midsize truck segment. The Tacoma, however, knocks it out of the park with features that are important to truckers.
For example, drivers prefer to customize their rides. With 11 feature packages to choose from, including three off-roading trim levels, two bed lengths, a pair of cab configurations, and an available six-speed manual transmission, the Tacoma can be tailored to your lifestyle with laser-sharp precision.
That's not all. The Toyota Tacoma also comes standard with advanced safety systems, keyless ignition, and a power rear sliding window that opens to the truck bed. While these features might seem trivial, they all contribute significantly to a healthier and happier work environment. Perhaps this practicality epitomizes the difference between the Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger best: The Ranger prioritizes premium comfort and good looks, while the Tacoma does it all.
Keep reading to learn more about this tight race, and don't hesitate to contact or visit McGee Toyota of Epping for more specifics!
2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2025 Ford Ranger Comparison Chart
2025 Ford Ranger | 2025 Toyota Tacoma | |
Standard Engine | 2.3L Turbo EcoBoost | 2.4L Turbo 4-cyl |
Available Engines | 3.0L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V-6 or 2.7L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V-6 | 2.4L Turbo 4-cyl Hybrid |
Standard Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
Available Transmission | - | 6-Speed Manual |
Standard Drivetrain | 4x2 | RWD |
Available Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
Standard Bed Length | 5-ft | 6-ft |
Available Bed Length | - | 5-ft |
Standard Seating Capacity | 5 | 2 |
Available Seating Capacity | - | 5 |
Standard Safety Features |
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Trim Levels |
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Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger Specs & Performance
When comparing the Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger, towing capacity likely comes to mind. While it's true that the Ranger has a higher maximum capacity of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Toyota holds its own with a whopping 6,500 pounds when properly equipped.
The Tacoma is also known as the stronger off-roader, distributing its rugged performance features across three trim levels because no two trails are exactly alike. Many Ranger Raptor drivers have reported a less-than-smooth transition back to the pavement after off-roading, highlighting the Tacoma is a more versatile option on both the trail and the city street. Plus, its efficient and robust hybrid option is unlike anything you'll find on the Ranger.

Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger Trims
The 11 Toyota Tacoma trims provide choices aplenty for those looking to explore a variety of feature packages. This midsize model comes in the following configurations:
- SR
- SR5
- TRD PreRunner
- TRD Sport
- TRD Off-Road
- TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX
- TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX
- Limited
- Limited i-FORCE MAX
- Trailhunter
- TRD Pro
On the other hand, the 2025 Ford Ranger only has four trim levels to pick from:
- XL
- XLT
- LARIAT
- Raptor
This thin selection doesn't necessarily mean you won't find a Ranger that works for you, but it certainly means you're more likely to compromise certain features to stay within a set budget. The Tacoma trim lineup is a dynamic selection with slighter variations between configurations.

Ford Ranger vs. Toyota Tacoma Reliability & Safety
Looking at the variance between standard safety features for the Tacoma vs. Ranger is surprising. A new Toyota Tacoma pulls so far ahead in this category, equipping its SR model with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Automatic High Beams, Road Sign Assist, and more. The standard Ranger XL comes with most factory-standard safety features like a Rearview Camera, Anti-Lock Brakes, and airbags.
The Tacoma is fortified by its legacy of long-term dependability. The Ford Ranger is quite reliable, too, so your decision between the two trucks should come down to whether or not you can live without Tacoma-exclusive features like a hybrid powertrain or six-speed manual transmission.
Who Wins the Toyota Tacoma vs. Ford Ranger Throwdown?
A Toyota Tacoma lease puts you in the driver's seat of a reliable, comfortable, and robust pickup truck. When you take advantage of one of our Toyota Tacoma lease deals, you'll enjoy higher trim levels at competitive rates. It doesn't hurt that the Tacoma is an affordable model to begin with, too.
Our McGee Toyota of Epping dealership is a great resource for drivers looking for more nuanced differences between the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. While we may appear biased, our low-pressure sales team will always prioritize getting you behind the wheel of the most suitable truck for your lifestyle or professional needs. Visit or contact McGee Toyota of Epping to speak with a Toyota specialist, and take the first step toward getting the dream truck you've wanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger?
Because the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger have so much in common, their distinctions stand out all the more. The Tacoma has a few key features not found on any Ranger model, such as an available manual transmission, standard push-button start, and multiple bed-length and cab-capacity options. The Toyota has almost triple the trim levels offered for the Ranger, too, including three off-roading configurations.
Which truck offers better technology and interior features?
While the Ford Ranger prioritizes a premium, modern look and feel, the Tacoma puts more stock in seamless functionality. It also adds nice touches, like a standard power rear sliding window (this feature is listed as available for the Ford). While the Ranger has bigger infotainment screens, the Tacoma has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, 3D multi-terrain monitor, and a 14-inch audio multimedia display.
What are the engine options for the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger?
When comparing the Ford Ranger vs. Toyota Tacoma, you'll see two options per model. The Ranger has a standard 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 or available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine. The Tacoma comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an available upgrade to the hybrid 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Unfortunately for fans of hybrid powertrains, the Ranger offers no equivalent.
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