2022 Ford Ranger vs. 2022 Toyota Tacoma
Overview
You have many exciting options if you're in the market for a new pickup truck. Maybe you're trying to decide between the 2022 Ford Ranger and the 2022 Toyota Tacoma. While these two trucks seem to have a lot in common, you'll see why you should go with the Ranger when you compare them closely.
Power and Performance
Pop open the Tacoma's hood, and you'll find a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower. While that sounds like an impressive output, the Ranger's 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generates 270 horsepower. The Ranger's robust engine teams up with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the Tacoma comes equipped with a 6-speed automatic. Having those four extra gears to shift through enables smoother, more precise acceleration and makes the Ranger's engine more efficient than the Tacoma's.
Engine efficiency is also improved by the Ranger's start/stop system that cuts the engine off at stop signs and red lights. Unfortunately, the Tacoma doesn't have start/stop technology. The Ranger takes the cake for towing purposes with its 7,500-pound towing capacity. The Tacoma's towing capacity maxes out at 6,800 pounds.
Connectivity Technology
While the Ranger and the Tacoma offer smartphone-compatible infotainment systems, only the Ranger comes standard with Bluetooth functionality, USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. You'll have to pay extra for an upper trim level if you want a Tacoma with Bluetooth capabilities and USB ports. The Tacoma lineup doesn't offer a Wi-Fi hot spot in any of its models, and you won't find a remote starting system, a handy feature available with the Ranger.
Interior
The Tacoma is available as a four-seater or five-seater pickup truck, while the Ranger lets you choose from three-, four-, and five-seater cabins. No matter which Ranger cabin you select, you'll enjoy premium seating surfaces and stylish accents that you won't find in the Tacoma. The Ranger's interior has a sleek driver-centric design that makes it easier to see the road, view vital vehicle information, and operate controls.
Compared to the Ranger, the Tacoma's cabin seems cluttered and less intuitive, and its boxier, old-fashioned shape can't compete with the Ranger's more modern form.
Safety Features
Regarding safety features, the Ranger and the Tacoma come with pre-collision assistance, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-keeping assistance. While the Tacoma has a blind-spot monitor, it doesn't offer the trailer coverage included in the Ranger's blind-spot information system.
After comparing the 2022 Ford Ranger with the 2022 Toyota Tacoma, it's evident that the Ranger is the better buy. Test out the Ranger on the streets in Lanham, MD, and experience a fun drive!