The Ford Ranger and F-150 are iconic names in the world of pickups, each serving different groups of truck enthusiasts and professionals. The Ranger has seen a redesign for 2024 that enhances its appeal in the competitive midsize pickup market. The F-150 — America’s best-selling truck for decades — continues to dominate the full-size pickup category with its evolutionary updates. By exploring key aspects such as pricing, performance, capacities, and technological features, a 2024 Ford Ranger vs. F-150 comparison will shed light on which truck may better suit your needs.
Pricing and Value Comparison
When considering a new pickup truck, pricing is often the top consideration. The 2024 Ford Ranger’s and F-150’s starting MSRPs are $32,980 and $37,065, respectively. The Ranger’s lower starting price makes it attractive if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options without sacrificing utility and comfort. Although it has a slightly higher price point, the F-150 offers greater capacity and features that justify the investment for many buyers.
Performance and Engine Specifications
Performance, particularly engine power and torque, is a significant factor for any truck buyer. Neither the Ranger nor the F-150 disappoints.
| Model | Engine options | Engine power (horsepower) | Torque (lb-ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Ranger (standard) | 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four | 270 | 310 |
| Ford Ranger (optional) | 2.7-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 | 315 | 400 |
| Ford Ranger (Raptor) | 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 | 405 | 430 |
| Ford F-150 (standard) | 2.7-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 | 325 | 400 |
| Ford F-150 (optional) | 5.0-liter V-8 | 400 | 410 |
| Ford F-150 (optional) | 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 | 400 | 500 |
| Ford F-150 (optional) | 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 and an electric motor | 430 | 570 |
| Ford F-150 (Raptor) | High-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V-6 | 450 | 510 |
| Ford F-150 (Raptor R) | 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 | 720 | 640 |
As you can see, the Ford F-150 offers more engine options, including a PowerBoost Hybrid that will appeal if you seek power and efficiency. The Ranger is your vehicle of choice if you need capability without the full-size requirement. Both trucks use a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the rear wheels or, optionally, all four.
Towing Capacity and Payload
Two of the essential functions of any pickup truck are towing and hauling. The Ranger’s maximum towing capacity is 7,500 pounds, with the F-150 managing 13,500. The maximum payload capacities are 1,805 pounds for the Ranger and 2,445 for the F-150.
Placing the towing and payload ratings of the Ford Ranger next to the F-150’s reveals the trucks’ different capabilities. The F-150’s superior towing and payload capacities support heavy-duty tasks and larger loads, making it a preferred choice if your work demands maximum capability. The Ranger is also a capable pickup, but it’s built to handle only light- to medium-duty jobs.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy
Despite being pickup trucks, the Ford Ranger and F-150 return respectable fuel economy ratings. The Ranger manages 21 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway, with the F-150’s gasoline versions achieving 20/26 mpg city/highway. The Ranger provides an edge in city fuel efficiency, which may make it a more attractive option if you’re an urban driver or conscious of your fuel expenses.
Dimension and Size Contrast
The Ranger is 210.6 inches long (depending on the trim) and 75.5 inches wide without mirrors. The F-150 is 209.4 to 243.9 inches long (depending on the cab style and bed length) and, when you fold its mirrors, 79.9 inches wide.
When making a Ford Ranger vs. F-150 size comparison, it’s essential to consider your driving needs and environment. Due to its smaller size, the Ranger will often be easier to park and maneuver in tighter city streets, making it suitable for urban commuting. The larger F-150 drives better in spacious environments and offers enhanced cargo space. A Ford truck size comparison should also consider fuel efficiency. Larger trucks are typically heavier, which results in poorer gas mileage.
Tech Features and Comfort Amenities
Both the Ford Ranger and F-150 feature the SYNC 4 infotainment system. However, the F-150 tends to offer more premium amenities, particularly in its higher trims.
Tech Features
The Ranger comes standard with a 10-inch touch-screen display, an 8-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and a six-speaker audio system. The F-150’s entry-level trim has most of these features, with a 12-inch touch-screen display, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, satellite radio, and navigation.
Interior Comfort
Generally, the F-150 has a more expansive and comfortable cabin than the Ranger. Both trucks offer interior upgrades such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a memory driver’s seat, and a heated steering wheel.
Whether you choose the Ranger or the F-150, there’s an array of trim levels and packages for customizing your truck. For example, you can build a Ford Ranger LARIAT FX4 that combines rugged capabilities with sophisticated luxury.
Safety Ratings and Features
Although the Ford Ranger for 2024 has fewer driver-assistance technologies than the F-150, it comes standard with automated high beams and emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane departure warning, and pedestrian monitoring. The base F-150 offers these features but adds blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors.
The Prognosis for Buyers: Which Truck Suits You?
The choice between the Ford Ranger and the F-150 depends on your needs. The Ranger is ideal for urban environments, occasional towing, and fuel savings; the F-150 suits heavy-duty work and larger families.
Visit John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken Today
If you’re considering buying the 2024 Ford Ranger or the F-150, stop by John Kennedy Ford of Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, to see these impressive trucks firsthand. Whether you’re interested in the F-150, Ranger, or Maverick, our expert team is here to help you drive home in your dream Ford truck. Contact us today to schedule a test-drive.
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