The midsize pick-up truck segment is a hotly contested one. Not only do they have to be able to stand up to other vehicles in their segment, but they also have to compete with the ever-popular crossover SUV. As trucks become more family-oriented and feature-rich, competition gets fiercer.
Today, we’ll be comparing the 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and the 2020 Ford Ranger Lariat. Which is more worth your hard-earned dollar?
2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road |
vs |
2020 Ford Ranger Lariat |
$36,965 |
MSRP |
$36,500 |
3.5L V6 |
Engine |
2.3L turbo 4-cyl |
278 hp / 265 lb-ft |
Horsepower / Torque |
270 hp / 310 lb-ft |
6-speed auto |
Transmission |
10-speed auto |
4WD |
Drivetrain |
4WD |
18/22/20 |
Fuel Economy |
20/24/22 |
The 2020 Tacoma rides better than almost all the competition. Partly due to the performance-tuned Bilstein shocks, the Tacoma can handle pothole-filled roads and major off-roading ventures with ease. The smaller wheel size also helps ride quality significantly. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat makes for comfy and supportive seating. The 2020 Ranger doesn’t fair as well. Every bump makes the Ranger bounce around. The bouncing is bad enough that reports of nauseous passengers are common among critics and owners.
The Toyota Tacoma has been the apple of the truck segment’s eye for awhile now. With its blend of reliability, ruggedness, dashing good looks, and capability, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road is an excellent truck to own. And with the legendary Toyota resale value, if you ever decide to upgrade, you know that you’ll get an excellent price for it. The 2020 Ranger? We think the Edmunds reviewer hit the nail on the head: “The Ranger doesn't necessarily live up to expectations. It posts some good marquee numbers, and it has a powerful engine. But these things can't really mask the fact that this is a hand-me-down truck that was new in 2011 in other world markets.”
Come test drive the 2020 Toyota Tacoma at Apple Valley Toyota.