Showdown: Toyota HiLux vs. Ford Ranger: Which One’s Tougher?

When it comes to Australian utes, the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger are perennial favorites, battling it out for supremacy both on the sales charts and in off-road performance.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the key features, specifications, and capabilities of both models to help you decide which one suits your needs.

We’re focusing on the latest specifications for both utes, ensuring this guide remains relevant as updates roll out through 2025.

Performance and Powertrain

Toyota HiLux

Engine: 2.8-litre turbo-diesel 4-cylinder
Power: 150kW
Torque: 500Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic or manual
Drive: Four-wheel drive (2H, 4H, 4L)
Towing Capacity: 3500kg (braked)
Payload: Up to 1000kg
Fuel Economy: 7.9L/100km (claimed)
Fuel Tank Size: 80L

The HiLux delivers reliable performance with its torquey turbo-diesel engine and well-tuned 6-speed automatic transmission.

While it lacks the refinement of some competitors, it excels in mid-range power, making it a capable workhorse and a solid performer for towing and off-road driving.

Ford Ranger

Engine: 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel
Power: 184kW
Torque: 600Nm
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Drive: Full-time four-wheel drive with selectable modes (2H, 4H, 4L, 4A)
Towing Capacity: 3500kg (braked)
Payload: Up to 1024kg
Fuel Economy: 8.4L/100km (claimed)

The Ranger’s V6 diesel engine outpaces the HiLux in power and torque, offering smoother, more refined performance.

Its 10-speed automatic transmission enhances drivability, providing excellent towing capability and superior fuel efficiency in real-world conditions.

Interior and Technology

Toyota HiLux

Infotainment: 8.0-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating: Leather-appointed seats (SR5+), heated front seats
Storage: Generous cubbies, under-armrest bin, two-tier glovebox
Interior Features: Hard-wearing plastics, ergonomic controls, rear air vents in higher trims

The HiLux is utilitarian at its core, with a focus on durability. The cabin, while practical, feels dated compared to its rivals. The SR5+ package introduces some comfort features, but it doesn’t fully disguise the ute’s workhorse roots.

Ford Ranger

Infotainment: 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating: Cloth seats (XLT), optional leather upholstery (Sport grade)
Storage: Tub tie-down points, spray-in bed liner, clever under-seat storage
Interior Features: Dual-zone climate control, configurable digital instrument cluster

The Ranger strikes a balance between functionality and modern tech. Its touchscreen interface is more advanced, with customizable trailer settings and easy-to-use controls. The interior feels more refined, particularly in higher trims, making it suitable for both work and leisure.

Off-Road Capability

Toyota HiLux

Ground Clearance: 226mm
Approach/Departure Angles: 29° / 27°
Features: Rear differential lock, hill descent control, robust 4WD system

The HiLux remains a formidable off-road contender with solid ground clearance and capable approach/departure angles. However, it lacks advanced off-road driving modes and the ability to engage four-wheel drive on sealed roads, limiting its versatility.

Ford Ranger

Ground Clearance: 235mm
Approach/Departure Angles: 30° / 24°
Features: Terrain Management System, surround-view camera, hill descent control

The Ranger edges ahead with its Terrain Management System, which optimizes settings for different surfaces. Its full-time 4WD system adds convenience, allowing for seamless transitions between road and off-road conditions.

Safety

Toyota HiLux

ANCAP Rating: 5 stars (96% adult protection, 87% child protection)
Features: Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring (higher trims)

Ford Ranger

ANCAP Rating: 5 stars (84% adult protection, 93% child protection)
Features: AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot assist, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control

Both models are equipped with comprehensive safety features, but the Ranger’s advanced systems, including trailer coverage and surround-view cameras, provide an edge in driver assistance technology.

Running Costs and Reliability

Toyota HiLux

Warranty: 5 years, unlimited kilometers (extendable for engine and driveline)
Servicing: Every 6 months or 10,000km ($245-$290 per service)

Ford Ranger

Warranty: 5 years, unlimited kilometers
Servicing: Every 12 months or 15,000km ($329 per service)

The HiLux requires more frequent servicing, which may increase running costs over time. The Ranger offers longer intervals, making it more convenient for busy owners.

Quick Stat Recap:

Feature	Toyota HiLux	Ford Ranger
Ground Clearance	226mm	235mm
Approach/Departure Angles	29° / 27°	30° / 24°
Key Off-Road Features	Rear differential lock, hill descent control, robust 4WD system	Terrain Management System, surround-view camera, hill descent control
On-Road Versatility	Limited (4WD not engageable on sealed roads)	Full-time 4WD system for seamless transitions
Safety
ANCAP Rating	5 stars (96% adult, 87% child protection)	5 stars (84% adult, 93% child protection)
Key Safety Features	AEB, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring (higher trims)	AEB with pedestrian & cyclist detection, blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control
Running Costs & Reliability
Warranty	5 years, unlimited kilometers (extendable)	5 years, unlimited kilometers
Servicing	Every 6 months or 10,000km ($245-$290 per service)	Every 12 months or 15,000km ($329 per service)
Towing Capacity	3,500 kg	3,500 kg
Overall Verdict	Proven workhorse, reliable off-road performance, strong aftermarket support	Modern technology, versatile for work/family use, advanced features

Verdict

The choice between the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger ultimately depends on your priorities:

Choose the HiLux if you want a proven workhorse with strong aftermarket support and reliable off-road performance.
Choose the Ranger if you value power, refinement, and modern technology, making it a versatile option for both work and family use.

With updates expected for both models, it’s worth considering your timing if you’re looking to purchase.

The Ranger’s advanced features give it an edge for now, but Toyota’s upcoming updates may narrow the gap.