Ford Ranger Raptor Vs Toyota Tacoma Trd Pro: The Ultimate Off-road Rivalry Revealed

What To Know

The Tacoma TRD Pro’s interior is also comfortable and well-appointed, but it feels a bit more cramped compared to the Ranger Raptor.
Both the Ranger Raptor and Tacoma TRD Pro come with a range of safety and driver assistance features.
The Ranger Raptor is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the Tacoma TRD Pro is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

In the realm of off-road adventure, two trucks stand tall above the rest: the Ford Ranger Raptor and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. Both vehicles are known for their rugged capabilities, impressive performance, and unwavering reliability. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison of the Ford Ranger Raptor vs Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro to determine the ultimate off-road champion.

Design and Styling:

The Ford Ranger Raptor exudes an aggressive and muscular stance, with a wide grille, bold fenders, and imposing tires. Its exterior is adorned with Raptor-specific accents, such as the prominent FORD lettering on the grille and the dual exhaust tips at the rear. On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro boasts a more understated yet purposeful design. It features a rugged front fascia with a TRD Pro grille, blacked-out accents, and a TRD Pro skid plate. Both trucks have a commanding presence on the road, but the Ranger Raptor’s bolder styling gives it an edge in terms of visual impact.

Performance and Off-Road Prowess:

When it comes to performance, both the Ranger Raptor and Tacoma TRD Pro pack a punch. The Ranger Raptor is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers 392 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This potent engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with a locking rear differential. The Tacoma TRD Pro, on the other hand, is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled locking rear differential.

While both trucks are capable off-road performers, the Ranger Raptor takes the lead with its more advanced suspension system. It features Fox Racing Shox with Live Valve technology that adjusts the damping in real time to provide optimal handling and control. The Tacoma TRD Pro, while still capable, utilizes a more traditional suspension setup with Bilstein shocks.

Interior Comfort and Features:

Inside, the Ranger Raptor offers a spacious and well-equipped cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the dashboard is laid out in a user-friendly manner. The infotainment system is intuitive and features a large touchscreen display. The Tacoma TRD Pro’s interior is also comfortable and well-appointed, but it feels a bit more cramped compared to the Ranger Raptor. The infotainment system is less user-friendly and features a smaller touchscreen display.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features:

Both the Ranger Raptor and Tacoma TRD Pro come with a range of safety and driver assistance features. The Ranger Raptor offers features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Tacoma TRD Pro also offers a variety of safety features, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Fuel Efficiency and Towing Capacity:

Fuel efficiency is not a strong suit for either truck, but the Ranger Raptor has a slight edge over the Tacoma TRD Pro. The Ranger Raptor is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the Tacoma TRD Pro is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. In terms of towing capacity, the Ranger Raptor can tow up to 8,500 pounds, while the Tacoma TRD Pro can tow up to 6,800 pounds.

Reliability and Maintenance Costs:

Both the Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro have a reputation for reliability. However, the Tacoma TRD Pro has a slight edge in terms of maintenance costs. Parts and labor for the Tacoma TRD Pro are generally less expensive compared to the Ranger Raptor.

The Verdict: Ford Ranger Raptor vs Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

The Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are both excellent choices for off-road enthusiasts. However, the Ranger Raptor comes out on top thanks to its more powerful engine, advanced suspension system, and more spacious interior. While the Tacoma TRD Pro is a capable off-roader, it falls short in terms of performance and overall refinement. Ultimately, the decision between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw power, cutting-edge technology, and a comfortable interior, the Ford Ranger Raptor is the way to go. If you prioritize reliability, affordability, and a more traditional off-road experience, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a solid choice.