The midsize pickup category is popular among many drivers, because you get the utility of a truck bed with a form factor that's still very manageable on the road.
It's the best of both worlds, providing off-road prowess plus endless versatility, and two models which deliver excellent value are the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Ranger.
Similarly priced and featuring numerous capabilities, the Tacoma and Ranger are excellent choices if you need to haul things regularly, and still want an easy time parking. But each one does have its own unique charms, so let's take a closer look to see if one is a slightly better fit for your lifestyle.x
2023 Toyota Tacoma Comparison Highlights
The Tacoma, Toyota's popular midsize pickup, is rolling into the 2023 model once again positioned to be America's #1 best-selling truck in its segment. To bolster its 17-year win streak, the Tacoma will offer two new packages for the SR5 trim which provide additional styling and customization options.
The 2023 Tacoma model lineup begins with the SR grade, featuring a starting MSRP of $27,750, and continues with familiar model names: SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Trail Special Edition, Nightshade Edition, and TRD Pro. Based on your model selection, the Tacoma can be configured with an access cab and 6-ft bed, or a double cab with either a 5-ft bed or 6-ft bed. All in all, there are 34 model configurations available for the 2023 Tacoma to address a large variety of lifestyle needs and budgets.
The new Chrome Package and expanded SX Package grant bold styling in their own ways, exclusively for the Tacoma SR5. As the name suggests, the Chrome Package features factory-installed chrome accents and 18-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels, while the SX Package - previously only available on SR grades--now gives the SR5 grade a more rugged aura thanks to black over-fenders, black wheels, blackout trim, blackout side mirrors, black badging, and a unique bed graphic.
At the core of Tacoma's high-strength steel body sits one of two engine options: a reliable 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.5-liter V6 with Toyota's VVT-iW technology. This larger engine utilizes both direct and port fuel injectors to deliver 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. An intelligent six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission is standard for both engine types, and the V6 can be optionally paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
On all but the highest Tacoma grades, rear-wheel drive with an automatic limited-slip differential is standard, and Toyota's 4WDemand part-time four-wheel drive can be added for additional off-road capabilities. This 4WDemand system employs an electronically controlled transfer case along with either an Automatic Limited Slip Differential or an available electronically controlled locking rear differential to manage torque distribution when traction is low.
For those with hauling needs, the available Tow Package (standard on all V6 models) offers up to 6,800 pounds of towing capacity and includes a Class IV towing receiver hitch, engine oil cooler, transmission fluid cooler, power steering cooler, 130-amp alternator, and Trailer-Sway Control. It's everything you'd need to reliably and safely pull the most demanding loads.
Speaking of safety, all 2023 Tacoma models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P which includes advanced capabilities like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic High Beams. Toyota's Star Safety System is also integrated into every Tacoma, featuring key components from Vehicle Stability Control to Electronic Brake-force Distribution to Smart Stop brake override technology.
2023 Toyota Tacoma Specifications
Models and Trims:
- SR
- SR5
- TRD Sport
- TRD Off-Road
- Limited
- Trail Special Edition
- TRD Pro
Packages:
- TRD Premium Off-Road
- Technology
- Nightshade Special Edition
- SR5 Dynamic Navigation
Body Style:
- Access Cab w/ 6-ft Bed
- Double Cab w/ 5-ft Bed
- Double Cab w/ 6-ft Bed
Drivetrain:
- Rear Wheel Drive
- 4WDemand part-time four-wheel drive
Engines:
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder; 159 HP
- 3.5-liter VVT-iW V6; 278 HP
Transmissions:
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- 6-speed manual transmission
Safety:
- Toyota Safety Sense P
Max Payload:
- Up to 1,525 pounds
Max Towing:
- Up to 6,800 pounds
2023 Ford Ranger Comparison Highlights
The 2023 Ranger is the only midsize truck that's Built Ford Tough, applying decades of know-how from a history of dominating the pickup market with the F-150. Loaded with driver-assist technologies and grounded by a high-strength steel frame, the 2023 Ranger is ready for all types of adventures with value-packed configurations.
With a starting MSRP of $27,400, the Ranger is available in three models for 2023: XL, XLT, and Lariat. Each of these models can be configured with a SuperCab and 6-ft box or SuperCrew with a 5-ft box, along with a choice of 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain. And to keep things simple, a 2.3-liter Ecoboost engine is the propulsion source for all Rangers, delivering 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque in a compact and efficient package. A 10-speed automatic transmission ensures the Ranger is in its optimum powerband at all times, and further supports fuel efficiency while delivering confidence on- or off-road.
Although the model lineup for Ranger is relatively small, Ford does offer numerous packages to provide additional customization for both styling and performance, effectively allowing you to create your own unique trim. For example, the STX Appearance Package adds Carbon Black bumpers, 17-inch aluminum wheels, fog lamps, and premium interior appointments. The FX2 Package (4x2 only) enhances Ranger's personality with 17-inch off-road tires, exclusive decals, off-road suspension, and an electronic-locking rear differential. And for extreme adventure enthusiasts, the Tremor Off-Road Package preps the Ranger for the toughest terrains by including skid plates, tow hooks, FOX shocks, and a heavy-duty suspension for increased ground clearance. Ford Trailer Control and Terrain Management System are also part of the Tremor Off-Road Package.
When properly equipped, the 2023 Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds, utilizing the Ranger's strong frame and solid rear axle to make even the largest loads feel easy to handle. And with the Class IV hitch that's included in the Trailer Tow Package, you'll be able to take advantage of Ranger's trailer sway control. The system senses unwanted movement from the trailer and automatically reduces speed to maintain stability.
To further ensure the overall driving experience is as safe as possible, all 2023 Rangers feature advanced driver-assist capabilities as part of Ford Co-Pilot 360. A blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert and trailer coverage, an available lane-keeping system, pre-collision assist, a rearview camera, and more help support your awareness in an increasingly distracted world.
2023 Ford Ranger Specifications
Models and Trims:
- XL
- XLT
- Lariat
Packages:
- STX Special Edition
- Tremor Off-Road
- Black Appearance
- FX2
- FX4 Off-Road
- Technology
- SuperCab w/ 6-ft Box
- SuperCrew w/ 5-ft Box
Drivetrain:
- Two-Wheel Drive
- 4x4 All-Wheel Drive
Engines:
- 2.3-liter Ecoboost V6; 270 HP
Transmissions:
- 10-speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission
Safety:
- Ford Co-Pilot360
Max Payload:
- Up to 1,905 pounds
Max Towing:
- Up to 7,500 pounds
Choosing Between the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger
Both the 2023 Tacoma and Ranger are leaders in the midsize truck space, and offer lots of modern technology and connectivity options--it's everything you'd expect from a modern-day driving experience. While we're confident you'd be happy with either vehicle, each one does offer a slightly different personality which may be better suited to your own preferences.
For instance, the Tacoma has a much larger model selection, and features tailor-made off-road variants engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD), the brand's in-house racing division. Because of this collaboration, the Tacoma takes a sportier approach to its off-road capabilities, featuring specially tuned and lifted suspension, crawl control, and a 6-speed manual transmission. Tacoma is also the only one of the two trucks to offer a V6 engine, for those who prefer the low-end torque and response from a larger displacement block.
On the other hand, the 2023 Ranger offers more standard horsepower, an efficient 10-speed transmission, and a larger payload and towing capacity. There are also lots of available styling and off-road performance packages along with official Ford Performance upgrade parts. So even though the lineup consists of just three models, you can essentially build your own version based on how you work and play.
Starting MSRP for the Tacoma and Ranger are just a few hundred dollars apart, so go break the tie by test driving both trucks at your local AutoNation Toyota and Ford dealerships.
Andrew Chen | February 27, 2023
