Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux
New Zealand's #1 vs the legendary unbreakable. The comprehensive comparison that settles the ute debate once and for all.
At a Glance Winner
Market Leader
Ford Ranger
8,729 sold in 2024
Most Powerful
Ford Ranger
184kW vs 150kW
Most Reliable
Toyota Hilux
50+ years proven
Better Value
Toyota Hilux
Lower ownership cost
Head-to-Head Specifications
| Specification | Ford Ranger | Toyota Hilux | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel | 2.8L 4-Cyl Turbo Diesel | Ranger |
| Power | 184kW @ 3250rpm | 150kW @ 3400rpm | Ranger |
| Torque | 600Nm @ 1750-2250rpm | 500Nm @ 1600-2800rpm | Ranger |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Auto | 6-Speed Auto/Manual | Ranger |
| Towing Capacity | 3500kg | 3500kg | Tie |
| Payload | Up to 1232kg | Up to 1085kg | Ranger |
| Ground Clearance | 232mm | 279mm | Hilux |
| Wading Depth | 800mm | 700mm | Ranger |
| Fuel Economy | 8.4L/100km | 8.7L/100km | Ranger |
| Warranty | 5 Years Unlimited km | 5 Years Unlimited km | Tie |
Specification Winner
Ford Ranger
Wins on power, transmission technology, and overall capability
Real-World Performance
How they actually perform in New Zealand conditions
Ford Ranger Performance
✅ Strengths
- •Superior power delivery - noticeably stronger acceleration
- •10-speed auto provides smooth, efficient gear changes
- •Better fuel economy despite more power
- •Higher payload capacity for work use
- •More advanced towing features (sway control, backup assist)
- •Superior technology and infotainment
⚠️ Considerations
- •More complex engine - higher service costs
- •Less ground clearance than Hilux
- •Newer to market - less long-term reliability data
Toyota Hilux Performance
✅ Strengths
- •Legendary reliability - proven over 50+ years
- •Lower maintenance and service costs
- •Excellent ground clearance for off-road work
- •Better resale value retention
- •Simpler, more proven engine design
- •Unbreakable reputation in harsh conditions
⚠️ Considerations
- •Less power and torque than Ranger
- •Older 6-speed transmission technology
- •Lower payload capacity
- •Less advanced technology features
Real Owner Experiences
What actual New Zealand owners say about each ute
Mark J.
Builder, Hamilton - Ranger Owner (2 years)
"Switched from a Hilux to the Ranger and honestly, the power difference is night and day. Towing my digger trailer up steep hills is effortless now. The 10-speed auto is brilliant - never hunting for gears. Yeah, it costs a bit more to service, but the productivity gains are worth it."
Rachel T.
Farmer, Southland - Hilux Owner (8 years)
"This is my third Hilux - 2005, 2015, and now 2020. Never had a major breakdown. It starts every morning, handles our rough farm tracks, and just keeps going. Service costs are reasonable, and I know it'll still be running in 20 years. That's worth more to me than fancy features."
The Final Verdict
Choose Ford Ranger If:
- • You want maximum power and performance
- • Latest technology is important
- • You need higher payload capacity
- • Smooth automatic transmission matters
- • You tow heavy loads regularly
- • Fuel economy is a priority
Choose Toyota Hilux If:
- • Long-term reliability is your priority
- • Lower ownership costs matter
- • You prefer proven, simple technology
- • Maximum off-road clearance needed
- • Strong resale value important
- • You want the "unbreakable" reputation
Our Recommendation
Both are excellent utes for different reasons:
For Work/Business: Ford Ranger's power and payload advantages make it more productive
For Long-term Value: Toyota Hilux's reliability and resale value provide better economics
Test drive both to feel the difference yourself
The Only Way to Decide is to Drive Both
Experience the power of Ranger and the reliability of Hilux for yourself
Book both test drives and make your decision based on real driving experience