Heading
Close X
Menu
The Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux are two of the most recognisable pick-up trucks on the market. Both models offer rugged durability, impressive off-road capability, and solid practicality. But which one is the better choice? We compare the key aspects to help you decide.
The Ford Ranger is available with either a four-cylinder or V6 diesel engine, offering a good balance between power and efficiency. The latest model features a heavily reworked platform, enhancing stability and making it more refined on the road. The Wildtrak trim, in particular, benefits from comfort suspension, which delivers a smoother ride, particularly on A-roads and motorways.
The Toyota Hilux, now in its eighth generation, comes with a 2.8-litre D-4D diesel engine. While it has plenty of pulling power, it feels less refined than the Ranger, with noticeable vibrations through the pedals and a six-speed auto that can be a bit clunky when shifting gears. The suspension tweaks have improved ride quality, but it still struggles with bumps at low speeds.
Both trucks excel off-road, but the Ranger offers a more user-friendly experience. Its 4x4 system allows drivers to select specific terrain settings at the press of a button, making it easy to tackle different surfaces. Meanwhile, the Hilux sticks to its traditional off-road roots, featuring a locking rear differential and automatic limited-slip diff for improved traction. It also has greater ground clearance (310mm vs 264mm in the Ranger), giving it a slight edge in extreme conditions.
Inside, the Ranger boasts a modern and refined cabin, featuring Ford’s SYNC infotainment system with a large 12-inch touchscreen. The interface is user-friendly, with sharp graphics and quick response times. The Ranger also offers a comfortable and adjustable driving position, making long journeys more enjoyable.
In contrast, the Hilux’s interior feels more dated. The Toyota Touch 2 infotainment system lags behind, with less intuitive menus and lower-resolution graphics. While the Hilux is built with durability in mind, its switchgear feels more basic compared to the Ranger’s more premium finish.
Both trucks offer decent passenger space, but the Ranger has an edge in rear-seat comfort, featuring air vents and charging sockets for added convenience. The Hilux has a more upright rear seat and lacks some of these modern comforts, though it provides good visibility for passengers.
When it comes to the load bed, the Ranger offers more depth, making it slightly more practical for carrying taller cargo. The Hilux, however, maintains a solid 1,010kg payload, just enough for commercial classification.
The Ranger leads in safety, boasting a five-star Euro NCAP rating, nine airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems such as autonomous emergency braking and lane assist. The Hilux, while equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense package, was last rated by Euro NCAP in 2016, meaning it may not meet the latest safety standards as comprehensively as the Ranger.
In terms of ownership, the Hilux has a strong reputation for longevity and reliability. Toyota’s Relax warranty offers up to 10 years or 100,000 miles of cover, provided the vehicle is serviced at an approved dealership. This surpasses the standard warranty offerings of most rivals, including Ford.
For those seeking a modern, refined, and technology-packed pick-up, the Ford Ranger is the clear winner. It delivers better on-road comfort, superior infotainment, and a more advanced safety package. However, if you prioritise off-road ruggedness, long-term reliability, and a strong warranty, the Toyota Hilux remains a solid choice.
Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you need a pick-up for daily driving and worksite versatility (Ranger) or a no-nonsense, go-anywhere workhorse (Hilux). Either way, both trucks are among the best in their class and won’t disappoint.