What To Know
- With a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,860 pounds, the Ranger proves its mettle as a capable hauler.
- The Ford Ranger and Sport Trac offer a range of trim levels to cater to diverse preferences and budgets.
- The Sport Trac is available in the XLT, Limited, and Adrenalin trims, providing a blend of luxury, versatility, and off-road prowess.
In the realm of mid-size pickup trucks, two formidable contenders emerge: the Ford Ranger and the Ford Sport Trac. Both vehicles boast unique strengths and characteristics, catering to distinct needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of each truck, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Performance and Power: Unwavering Strength
Under the hood, the Ford Ranger and Sport Trac offer a range of engine options to suit diverse driving demands. The Ranger’s standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers a potent 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for hauling and towing tasks. Alternatively, the Sport Trac’s available 4.0-liter V6 engine generates 207 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque, ensuring smooth acceleration and confident cruising. Both trucks feature advanced technologies that optimize fuel efficiency without compromising performance.
Capability and Utility: Workhorse Versatility
When it comes to capability, the Ford Ranger and Sport Trac stand ready to tackle any job or adventure. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,860 pounds, the Ranger proves its mettle as a capable hauler. The Sport Trac, on the other hand, offers a unique blend of utility and versatility. Its innovative Sport Trac AdvantEDGE™ bed extender system expands the cargo area, allowing for the secure transport of longer items. Both trucks feature robust suspensions and optional four-wheel drive systems, ensuring unwavering traction and handling in challenging conditions.
Comfort and Convenience: A Refined Ride
Inside the cabin, the Ford Ranger and Sport Trac prioritize comfort and convenience. The Ranger’s spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo, while the Sport Trac’s flexible seating configurations offer customizable versatility. Both trucks feature user-friendly infotainment systems with intuitive interfaces, providing access to navigation, entertainment, and connectivity features. Advanced driver assistance technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning, enhance safety and peace of mind on every journey.
Safety and Reliability: Uncompromising Protection
Ford places a premium on safety, equipping both the Ranger and Sport Trac with an array of advanced safety features. These include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control as standard. Additionally, both trucks have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). When it comes to reliability, both the Ranger and Sport Trac have proven their mettle, with consistently high ratings from reputable automotive organizations.
Fuel Efficiency: Striking a Balance
While both the Ford Ranger and Sport Trac prioritize performance and capability, they also strive to achieve commendable fuel efficiency. The Ranger’s EcoBoost engine, paired with its 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Sport Trac’s V6 engine, coupled with its 5-speed automatic transmission, achieves an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. These figures may vary depending on driving conditions and individual driving habits.
Trims and Pricing: Tailored to Your Needs
The Ford Ranger and Sport Trac offer a range of trim levels to cater to diverse preferences and budgets. The Ranger lineup includes the XL, XLT, Lariat, and Tremor trims, each offering unique features and capabilities. The Sport Trac is available in the XLT, Limited, and Adrenalin trims, providing a blend of luxury, versatility, and off-road prowess. Pricing for the Ranger starts at $24,820, while the Sport Trac’s starting price is $26,495.
The Verdict: A Matter of Choice
The choice between the Ford Ranger and Sport Trac ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize rugged capability and towing prowess, the Ranger emerges as the clear winner. However, if you seek a versatile vehicle that seamlessly transitions from work to play, the Sport Trac’s unique features and flexible cargo space make it an enticing option. Both trucks deliver exceptional performance, comfort, and safety, ensuring a satisfying driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which truck has a higher towing capacity, the Ranger or the Sport Trac?
A: The Ford Ranger boasts a higher towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds, while the Sport Trac‘s maximum towing capacity stands at 6,500 pounds.
Q: Does the Sport Trac offer four-wheel drive?
A: Yes, the Ford Sport Trac is available with an optional four-wheel drive system, providing enhanced traction and handling in challenging conditions.
Q: Which truck has a better fuel economy rating?
A: The Ford Ranger’s EcoBoost engine delivers better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, compared to the Sport Trac‘s V6 engine, which achieves an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.