Compare Ford Ranger vs. the Toyota Tacoma

See How Ford Ranger Outperforms the Toyota Tacoma Competition in Manteca, CA

Head-to-head, both mid-size pickups present compelling alternatives for the day laborer, tradesperson, and pleasure cruiser alike. Ours upholds a "Built Ford Tough" tradition that made a stopover back in 2011, returning once more for 2019 with more than a few design nods to Ford F-150. Theirs goes all the way back to 1995, an improvement on the versatile Toyota Hilux. However, only one shows that it stands the test of time. See why that's the new 2019 Ford Ranger right here at Phil Waterford's Manteca Ford!

2019 Ford Ranger vs. 2019 Toyota Tacoma

• Standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine, with 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque -- both best-in-class ratings -- and paired with a class-exclusive ten-speed automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel (4x2) and four-wheel (4x4) drivetrain options
• Up to 1,860 pounds max payload support in SuperCab 4x2 configuration, supports towing up to 7,500 pounds, both class-topping capabilities
• Optional Terrain Management System with available locking rear differential
• Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking standard across the lineup
• Available 8-inch SYNC® 3 infotainment system with Waze navigation capability, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Ford+Alexa compatibility, and optional Internet access via Wi-Fi thanks to FordPass Connect

2019 Ford Ranger comes in XL, XLT and Lariat trims, fewer options than the new Tacoma, which appears in SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. However, its one engine is more powerful than Tacoma's right out the gate, and even Tacoma's more energetic V6 is no match for Ranger when it comes to torque. Plus, Tacoma can only haul up to 1,620 pounds and tow up to 6,800 pounds, well behind Ranger.

• Standard 159-horsepower, 2.7-liter in-line four-cylinder engine shelling 180 pound-feet of torque
• Available 278-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine capable of 265 pound-feet
• Six-speed manual and electronically controlled auto transmissions available
• Max payload support up to 1,620 pounds; max towing support: 6,800 pounds with a V6, an auto transmission, and a 4x2 drivetrain
• Auto limited-slip and electronically controlled locking differentials
• Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) driver-assistance suite
• 6.1- or 7-inch Entune systems available, with integrated navigation optional

Toyota Tacoma might have more trim levels to choose from, an extra engine choice, and an extra transmission option. However, it lacks in modern technologies where Ranger excels. You won't find crowd-sourced navigation support, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone support, virtual assistant compatibility, or Wi-Fi.

To learn more about 2019 Ford Ranger and how it gets the edge on its Toyota rival, take a test drive in the trim that's caught your eye right here on North Main Street in Manteca, CA. We'll be glad to give you the tour!