When it comes to mid-size trucks that can hold their own the 2023 Ford Ranger is on the top of that list. This smaller Ford Ranger truck is a prime competitor to such trucks as the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, which was made to go off-road. In this in-depth comparison we will look at these two trucks, both the differences and similarities.
Key Takeaways:
- The Ford Ranger offers one engine which produces an impressive amount of power for a smaller sized truck. This will complement the towing capacity that Ford has been known for in the past.
- In the 2023 Ford Ranger you will see many technology features that will allow you to stay safe and connected while you drive!
- The 2023 Toyota Tacoma was built with off-roading in mind, however, the 2023 Ford Ranger will also see a unique trim level that is specifically made for off-roading.
Available Drivetrains:
In the 2023 Ford Ranger you will see a singular engine option under the hood. This engine will be mated to an automatic ten speed transmission that will shift smoothly while you drive. Standard two wheel drive options will be seen with an available four wheel drive package that is available. The turbo charged engine will give you the power to tow an impressive amount for a smaller truck such as the Ford Ranger.
When equipped with a Class IV hitch, the available tow package, and four wheel drive you will be able to tow up to 7500 pounds. This is a good amount of weight for such a small truck. It is important to note that towing capacities of any truck will vary depending on the packages and drivetrain setup, so be sure to double check before hooking a trailer up to your truck.
Engine seen in the 2023 Ford Ranger:
- 2.3 liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine (270 horsepower, 310 pounds of torque)
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma on the other hand will have two engines available. On top of that there will also be two transmission options, a six speed automatic transmission and a 6 speed manual transmission that will be optional on some models of the 2023 Tacoma. Rear wheel drive will be standard with an optional four wheel drive available. When it comes to towing the Ford Ranger is equipped to tow more, however Tacomas can still tow up to 6,800 pounds.
Engines Seen in the 2023 Toyota Tacoma:
- 2.7 liter inline 4 cylinder (159 horsepower, 180 pounds of torque)
- 3.5 liter V6 engine (278 horsepower, 265 pounds of torque)
Technology and Connectivity:
In the 2023 year of the Ford Ranger there are many technology features that will be beneficial and make your life easier as you are driving. In the way of connectivity the Ford Ranger will have SYNC 3 technology as well as the Ford Pass App which will give you the ability to stay connected while you drive. Safety is also an important area for Ford’s vehicles which they produce. Some of the following safety features that are listed are the most notable that you will see on the 2023 Ford Ranger.
- Blind Spot Information System with cross traffic monitoring
- Lane Keeping System
- Rear View Camera
- Pre-Collision Assist
The Toyota Tacoma does not skimp when it comes to the technology that they offer in their truck. One very great feature that they have is a panoramic camera which will give the driver front, side, and rear camera angles to be able to see all around them. This will ensure the safety of others and help maneuver into tight spots. Safety is also a top priority in Toyota’s vehicles, especially the Toyota Tacoma. Many of the features will be similar to what the Ford Ranger will offer, just with a slightly different name.
- Pre-Collision detection system with pedestrian sensing
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert
- Automatic High Beams
Off-Road Capabilities:
Ford has not been primarily known for their off-road capabilities from many of their vehicles, let alone their trucks. The new 2023 Ford Ranger Tremor edition has been designed to take on such competitors such as the Toyota Tacoma. The Tremor Package will bring an aggressive stance to the truck and many off-road ready features to take you off the beaten path and on an adventure. Here are some of the major features that the Tremor package will offer.
- Skid Plates
- 6 built in switches to wire accessories into
- Heavy duty suspension with extra ground clearance
- Ford Trail Control
- Terrain Management System
Toyota has been producing their Tacomas to be ready to go off-roading at a moment's notice. The new 2023 Toyota Tacoma is no different. It comes with many amazing features that will help you get off the road and into the wilderness. Here are some of the main features from the 2023 Toyota Tacoma.
- Electronically locking rear differential
- Bilstein Shocks
- Multi-Terrain Select
- Crawl Control
What is the Best Choice?
While the Toyota Tacoma has some impressive features that could come in handy the 2023 Ford Ranger is the way to go. The Ford Ranger may only have one engine available, however, you will see impressive power from that engine that will also allow you to tow a good amount, more than the Tacoma as well. If you are looking for the off-roading capabilities that Tacoma’s offer we would opt for the Tremor package to get you where you need to be and on the adventures you want to go on!