What To Know
- In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Ford Ranger vs Dodge Dakota to help you decide which truck is right for you.
- The Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds.
- The Dodge Dakota has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,600 pounds.
When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, the Ford Ranger and Dodge Dakota are two of the most popular choices. Both trucks offer a variety of features and capabilities, but there are also some key differences between them. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Ford Ranger vs Dodge Dakota to help you decide which truck is right for you.
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck that was first introduced in 1983. The Ranger is known for its ruggedness, reliability, and affordability. It’s also a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts.
Dodge Dakota
The Dodge Dakota is a midsize pickup truck that was first introduced in 1987. The Dakota is known for its powerful engines, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It’s also a popular choice for towing and hauling.
Key Differences
There are a few key differences between the Ford Ranger and Dodge Dakota. Here’s a closer look:
- Engine: The Ford Ranger offers a variety of engine options, including a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 3.0L V6 engine, and a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine. The Dodge Dakota offers a 3.7L V6 engine and a 4.7L V8 engine.
- Towing and Payload Capacity: The Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds. The Dodge Dakota has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,600 pounds.
- Fuel Economy: The Ford Ranger gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Dodge Dakota gets an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- Interior: The Ford Ranger has a spacious interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Dodge Dakota also has a spacious interior, but it’s not as roomy as the Ranger’s.
- Price: The Ford Ranger starts at $24,820. The Dodge Dakota starts at $28,995.
Which Truck Is Right for You?
The Ford Ranger and Dodge Dakota are both great trucks, but they offer different features and capabilities. The Ranger is a good choice for those who want a rugged, reliable, and affordable truck. The Dakota is a good choice for those who want a powerful, spacious, and comfortable truck.
Ford Ranger Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rugged and reliable
- Affordable
- Good fuel economy
- Spacious interior
- Off-road capabilities
Cons:
- Not as powerful as the Dakota
- Lower towing and payload capacity
- Less comfortable ride
Dodge Dakota Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful engines
- Spacious interior
- Comfortable ride
- Good towing and payload capacity
Cons:
- More expensive than the Ranger
- Lower fuel economy
- Not as rugged as the Ranger
- Fewer off-road capabilities
Key Points: The Verdict
The Ford Ranger and Dodge Dakota are both great trucks, but they offer different features and capabilities. The Ranger is a good choice for those who want a rugged, reliable, and affordable truck. The Dakota is a good choice for those who want a powerful, spacious, and comfortable truck. Ultimately, the best truck for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. What is the difference between the Ford Ranger and Dodge Dakota?
The Ford Ranger is a rugged, reliable, and affordable truck. The Dodge Dakota is a powerful, spacious, and comfortable truck.
2. Which truck has a higher towing capacity?
The Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. The Dodge Dakota has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
3. Which truck has a better fuel economy?
The Ford Ranger gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Dodge Dakota gets an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.