Features / 16 February 2021 / Albert du Toit

Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux – Battle of the bakkie kings

The Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux are undoubtedly two of the top competitors in the bakkie segment.

They are both high-volume sellers for their respective brands; they both have large groups of loyal owners; and they both offer five seats, two sets of doors, and a large bin at the rear.

Visually, they differ quite substantially – while prices span from R300,000 to over R800,00 for both ranges.

In terms of capabilities, however, they are very alike.

In this comparison we will be using the Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4 GD6 RB Raider MT, as this is the newest trim in the range as well as the cheapest “non-workhorse” model for sale.

The Ford it will be going up against is the Ranger 2.2 TDCi Double Cab XLS 6MT 4×2 HR, as it is the nearest in price and also the cheapest “non-workhorse” model.

Power

Power and capacities remain one of the main attributes for bakkies.

To power the Hilux, Toyota have fitted a 2.4-litre diesel engine which produces 110kW of power and 400Nm of torque.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission and differential lock is available if the situation calls for it.

The combination of these factors leads to a vehicle mass of 2,810kg, a maximum payload of 865kg, a maximum towing capacity of 2,750kg, and a claimed combined fuel consumption of 7.1l/100km.

In the Ranger, Ford placed a slightly smaller 2.2-litre diesel engine which generates a higher 118kW of power, but lower torque at 385Nm.

A 6-speed manual transmission manages the drive, and power is sent to the rear wheels which also offers differential lock.

All these additions result in a higher vehicle mass of 3,200kg, a lower maximum payload of 855kg, a higher maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg, and a lower claimed combined fuel consumption of 6.5l/100km.

It is clear that these bakkies will be evenly matched at the construction site.

Features

In the exterior department, the Ranger sports automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers, daytime running lights, front and rear fog lamps, and electrically adjustable mirrors.

The Hilux is a bit neglected here, and only receives automatic headlights with follow-me-home functionalities, front fog lamps, and electrically adjustable mirrors.

Daytime running lights and automatic wipers are available in the Raider range, but only further up the price ladder.

Both the Ford and Toyota then sit on 17-inch wheels, with the Ranger having an overall height of 1,851mm and the Hilux having a slightly lower roofline at 1,815mm.

Cabin comforts are plentiful, and all-round electric windows, fabric seats, manual air-conditioning, and cruise control will be found in both bakkies.

This is where the Toyota gains a step, though, as it is further fitted with a multifunction steering wheel.

As infotainment features go, both bakkies received the high-end systems.

For the Ranger, this is an 8-inch touchscreen display that enables Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – and offers CD, USB, Aux, and Bluetooth inputs through a 6-speaker layout.

In the Hilux, you will find the Toyota Display Audio system which offers the same inputs as that on the Ranger – but with Toyota Connect functionalities and two fewer speakers.

A multi-information display in the instrument cluster provides instantaneous information about your vehicle in either bakkies, and the Ranger adds a rear lockable storage compartment as a finishing touch.

Safety

In 2021, we’ve come to expect certain specs as standard – and this includes safety systems.

Car manufacturers have put great emphasis on safety features in recent years and packed their vehicles with systems to enhance occupant safety.

This has led to a 5-star Australian NCAP safety rating for both the Hilux and the Ranger.

In order to achieve these ratings, both bakkies are fitted with:

ABS
Reverse camera
Traction control
Hill launch assist
Rollover mitigation
Trailer sway control
Park distance control
Electronic stability programme
Driver, passenger, curtain, and side airbags

The Hilux pulls ahead again, however, as it receives brake assist.

This feature measures the speed and force with which the brake pedal is pushed to estimate whether the driver is attempting to brake rapidly or not, and applies additional braking pressure if needed.