2021 Ford Ranger vs Toyota Tacoma
When it comes to trucks, drivers in Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach, FL, want the best. Two top-notch pickups out there are the 2021 Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma, but which one is better for your lifestyle?
Here at World Ford Pensacola, we want our customers to be armed with the facts. We’ve prepared this comparison of the 2021 Ford Ranger vs. Toyota Tacoma. That way, when you’re getting ready to buy your next truck, you can choose the truck that’ll make you happy.
Performance & Power
Let’s start with the standard 2.7-liter DOHC engine in the Toyota Tacoma. It produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission. Plus, it reaches an EPA-estimated 20 city/23 highway MPG.
The 2021 Ford Ranger is equipped with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine. It produces an impressive 270 horsepower and a best-in-class gas torque of 310 lb-ft. The 10-speed automatic transmission is the engine’s partner, giving this truck seamless shifts and a smooth drive. Better yet, it achieves an EPA-estimated 21 city/26 highway MPG!
We’re talking about trucks here, so let’s get down to the towing and payload capabilities. When properly equipped, the Toyota Tacoma has a maximum payload of 1,685 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds. The Ranger, on the other hand, boasts a maximum payload of 1,860 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped.
In terms of standard power and overall towing and payload capabilities, the 2021 Ford Ranger far surpasses that of the Toyota Tacoma. Best of all, it comes in a fuel-efficient package.
Intense Off-Road Capability
Having a truck that can tackle the concrete jungle is great, but one that can keep going when the pavement ends is even better. Both the pickup trucks have great off-road capabilities, so you’ll be able to keep the fun going even when the asphalt ends.
Each truck also features an available electronic-locking rear differential. When this feature is activated, it locks the rear axle. This optimizes traction for the rear wheels by moving them at the same speed.
The 2021 Ford Ranger has an available Terrain Management System™, which gives you four selectable modes to choose from. The system calibrates engine responsiveness, transmission shifting, and vehicle control systems, making it easier to handle the specific terrain you’re taking on. The Toyota Tacoma has a very similar system called Multi-Terrain Select.
With similar optional features, either the Ranger or the Tacoma is a great choice for your off-roading adventures.
2021 Ford Ranger vs Toyota Tacoma: Smart Technology
Knowing you’ve got a truck that’s going to watch your back is important. It’ll make you feel more confident and comfortable behind the wheel.
Both the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma have safety suites that feature a number of standard and available driver-assistive features. The Ranger comes with Ford Co-Pilot360™, which includes:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage
- Rear View Camera
- Lane-Keeping System
The Tacoma comes with Toyota Safety Sense™ with features similar to that of the Ford Ranger. It has a pre-collision assist and a lane-keeping system. However, without blind spot coverage for your trailer, it may leave you in the dark while towing in rush-hour traffic.
2021 Ford Ranger vs Toyota Tacoma: The Verdict
This was certainly a knockdown, drag-out brawl between two great pickup trucks. However, in the end, the Ford Ranger came out on top. It has the driving capabilities, fuel efficiency, and straight-up power that you need in your next pickup.
There’s only one way to find out if the 2021 Ford Ranger is really the right truck for you. You’ll have to stop by World Ford Pensacola and take it for a test drive through the streets of Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Schedule a test drive today!