2021 Ford Ranger Comparison

When it comes to midsize trucks, there are a few key features to be on the lookout for. High safety ratings, exceptional towing capacity and smooth handling are vital for most truck drivers. Two of the top vehicles in this class are the 2021 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Toyota Tacoma.

Each of these trucks comes with its own benefits. The 2021 Ford Ranger's 2.3-liter turbocharged engine consistently outperforms its competition, but let's see how these two vehicles stack up against each other when compared side-by-side.

2021 Ford Ranger off road near Cleveland

Comparing the Cost and Performance of the 2021 Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma

Both the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma come in a variety of trims and styles. For the purposes of this comparison, we'll be looking at the Ranger XL 4WD SuperCab 6' Box and the SR Double Cab 5' Bed I4 AT.

	Ford Ranger	Toyota Tacoma
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price	$27,815	$29,475
City Fuel Economy	20 mpg	17 mpg
Highway Fuel Economy	24 mpg	21 mpg
Turning Diameter	42'	40.6'
Maximum Trailering Capacity	3,500 lbs.	3,500 lbs.
Engine Type	Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4	Regular Unleaded I-4
Horsepower	270 at 5,500 RPM	159 at 5,200 RPM

Looking at the performance of these two trucks, the Ford Ranger is faster and more powerful than the Toyota Tacoma. It also features better fuel economy and handles more precisely. When it comes to towing, the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma share a maximum trailering capacity of 3,500 lbs.

The Ford Ranger's powertrain features a 10-speed automatic transmission along with a turbocharged, four-cylinder engine that packs a punch. A 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers excellent fuel economy along with 270 horsepower and 310 pounds-feet of torque. While this is the only powertrain option available for the 2021 Ranger, it's safe to say it's exactly what makes this truck one of the most popular midsize trucks of the year.

Toyota offers drivers several options when it comes to the 2021 Tacoma powertrain. While the direct injection 3.5-liter engine comes standard, drivers can select from several packages that include options such as manual transmission and locking rear differential.

Technology, Safety and Optional Features

The Ford Ranger can be completely customized to enhance design and functionality. Drivers can choose to add an optional cap, roof racks or cargo carriers to help haul important loads more efficiently.

With select packages, drivers can include advanced technology features such as adaptive cruise control, a forward-sensing system, and touchscreen navigation. The Ranger's standard technology package includes advanced safety features such as auto high-beam headlights, a rearview camera and pre-collision assist.

Interior features of the Ford Ranger include optional cloth, vinyl or leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seat and optional heated seats. When it comes to entertainment, drivers can choose to include a SiriusXM satellite radio package to their new vehicle.

Although the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hasn't provided safety ratings for the 2021 Ford Ranger, the 2020 edition received an overall safety rating of four out of five stars and a five-star front driver side rating.

Looking at the Toyota Tacoma, safety features are extensive. They include front seat cushion airbags, a standard back-up camera and optional bird's eye view cameras, as well as an optional blind-spot monitor system.

Inside the vehicle, drivers can enjoy optional two-way power-adjustable lumbar support, as well as heated front seats and optional fabric or leather upholstery.

The NHTSA assigned the 2021 Toyota Tacoma an overall safety rating of four out of five stars. This vehicle underperformed when compared with the Ford Ranger, receiving a front driver side rating of just four out of five stars.

To test drive a 2021 Ford Ranger in the Cleveland, Lakewood or Jefferson areas, contact Ken Ganley Ford Parma today

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, license, or ($250) documentation fees. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.