Should you choose the 2024 Ford Ranger or the 2024 Toyota Tacoma? Both midsize trucks were redesigned for the 2024 model year, with new powertrain options and sporty off-road capabilities. Our comparison guide is here to help you figure out whether you’d prefer the Ranger or the Tacoma!
Key Takeaways
- Delivering up to 405 horsepower, the 2024 Ranger takes the lead when it comes to performance.
- To maximize your high-speed off-roading potential, check out the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor!
- The Tacoma comes standard with a few extra features, especially driver safety aids.
- Both trucks are available with a wide range of upgrades, including luxurious leather seating and premium sound systems.
Whether you’re checking out standard powertrain specs or maximum capabilities, the 2024 Ranger delivers maximum horsepower. The new 2.7-liter turbo V6, standard for the XLT and Lariat trim models, delivers a fun-loving ride with 315 horses. And the off-road-ready Raptor trim model is even more impressive, delivering 405 horses for your trail adventures.
Here’s a closer look at the 2024 Ford Ranger engine options:
- XL: 2.3L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- XLT, Lariat: 2.7 EcoBoost V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear- wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
The redesigned Tacoma also offers three engine options, depending on which trim model you like. While Toyota’s midsize truck doesn’t deliver as much horsepower as the Ranger, it still gives you plenty of thrills. That’s especially true of its optional i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, which delivers the Tacoma’s max output of 326 horses.
Depending on which trim model you select, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma is available with these powertrain options:
- Base, SR: Turbo 2.4L four-cylinder engine (228 hp, 243 lb-ft)
- Other Tacoma trim models: high-output 2.4L four-cylinder engine (278 hp, 317 lb-ft with automatic or 270 hp, 310 lb-ft with manual transmission)
- Optional or standard on the TRD Pro, Trailhunter: i-Force Max hybrid powertrain (326 hp, 456 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Optional six-speed manual transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Off-Road Action: 2024 Ford Ranger
The all-new Ranger Raptor trim model is our first choice for off-road adventure. For starters, its twin-turbo, 405-horsepower engine leaves every Tacoma in the dust. And the Raptor also comes standard with everything you need to tackle truly tough terrain, including Fox Live Valve Shocks, front and rear lockers, and four-wheel drive.
The 2024 Tacoma offers a few off-road-ready trim models (TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro), but only the all-new Trailhunter comes close to competing with the Ranger Raptor. The Trailhunter’s standard lineup includes the 326-horsepower hybrid powertrain, all-terrain tires, Old Man Emu suspension, and four-wheel drive.
Standard Features: 2024 Toyota Tacoma
Both trucks are big on infotainment technology. For 2024, the Ranger comes standard with a digital gauge cluster, plus Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. The Tacoma’s standard lineup includes the same smartphone integration features, plus an 8-inch central touchscreen.
Although both trucks treat you to standard smartphone integration and LED headlamps, the Tacoma has a slight edge. Toyota’s midsize truck comes standard with its Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 package, giving you a little more for your money with driver safety aids such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure mitigation. Of course, the redesigned Ford Ranger also offers these safety aids, but you’ll find them on higher trim models.
Available Upgrades: It’s a Tie!
When it comes to luxury upgrades, these midsize trucks are highly competitive. You can equip either truck with extra comfort features, including heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, or leather upholstery. And both pickups add to your convenience with available features like a power tailgate, wireless smartphone charging pad, or tow-friendly cameras.
Make Your Choice
In the end, the 2024 Ford Ranger’s upgraded performance gives it the edge, on-road or off! When you’re shopping for a midsize truck that supplies generous power, modern features, and incredible off-road capabilities, you can’t go wrong with the redesigned Ranger.