Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux – What Should You Choose?

When it comes to utes in Australia, the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux are the heavy hitters. Tradies love ’em, adventurers swear by ’em, and families use them for everything in between.

 

Both have loyal followings, and for good reason, but if you're looking at the 2024 models and wondering which one to pick, we're breaking it down with a complete comparison between the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.

 

Design Comparison

Ranger:

The 2024 Ford Ranger has been praised for its bold, American-inspired design, with a squared-off front end and C-clamp LED headlights giving it a commanding presence on the road. Step inside, and it feels more like an SUV than a ute with a large portrait-style touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and clever storage compartments.

 

Hilux:

The Toyota Hilux sticks to its tried-and-true rugged aesthetic. It’s built tough and looks the part, with a no-nonsense stance that appeals to tradies and off-roaders alike. Inside, though, it’s starting to feel a bit dated. The layout is practical and hard-wearing but lacks its Ford rival's tech appeal and comfort. You can always increase the comfort with a set of seat covers from RubberTree.

 

If you value modern styling and in-cabin tech, the Ranger is the clear winner here. The Hilux is still tough, but it’s due for a refresh.

 

Practicality Comparison

Ranger:

The Ford Ranger edges ahead in practicality thanks to its larger tray and smarter cabin storage. The wider tub can easily fit a standard Euro pallet between the wheel arches. Inside, there’s more rear legroom, better cupholders, and a deep centre console.

 

Hilux:

The Hilux remains dependable and functional, but it plays it safe. The tray is narrower and shorter, making it slightly less versatile. Interior practicality and storage are fine; it's nothing fancy, but it gets the job done.

 

While the Hilux is undeniably practical, the Ranger is more well-designed for tradies and families alike.

 

Under the Bonnet Comparison

Ranger:

The Ranger offers more powertrain variety, including a punchy 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel that delivers 600Nm of torque, plus a 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder option. Both pair with a 10-speed automatic. The Ranger’s towing capacity matches the Hilux’s at 3.5 tonnes, but it feels more capable when loaded.

 

Hilux:

Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbo-diesel is proven and reliable but now lags behind in outright grunt. It produces 150kW and 500Nm, which is respectable, but the Ranger’s V6 outpaces it. The 6-speed automatic transmission is solid but less refined than Ford’s 10-speed.

 

Ford takes the win here. With more power, torque, and superior transmission, the Ranger is better for those who tow heavy loads or want extra punch under the pedal.

 

 

Fuel Comparison

Ranger:

Fuel economy varies depending on your engine choice. The V6 is thirsty, sitting around 8.4L/100km combined, but the 2.0L bi-turbo four-cylinder is a smarter pick for drivers chasing balance – it averages around 7.6L/100km.

 

Hilux:

The Hilux’s 2.8L engine is more efficient on paper and in practice, averaging about 7.4L/100km. Its economy makes it a favourite for long-distance drivers, fleets, and anyone focused on running costs.

 

If fuel economy is a key factor, Hilux wins. It may not be the most powerful, but it’s efficient, dependable, and well-suited to high-mileage work.

 

 

Driving Comparison

Ranger:

The Ranger impresses with smooth handling, SUV-like comfort, and reduced cabin noise. It’s genuinely enjoyable to drive both in town and on the highway. The suspension is well-tuned, and the 10-speed auto makes for effortless cruising.

 

Hilux:

The Hilux feels built for punishment. Its stiff suspension and heavier steering suit rough terrain but feel less refined on sealed roads. It shines in tough off-road conditions thanks to excellent approach angles and clearance.

 

The Ranger wins for on-road comfort and all-round versatility, while the Hilux remains a strong pick for die-hard off-roaders.

 

Safety Comparison

Ranger:

The Ranger scores high for safety, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a crisp reversing camera.

 

Hilux:

The Hilux also boasts a five-star ANCAP rating and similar safety gear, but its systems are based on an older platform.

 

Both utes are safe and well-equipped, but the Ranger gets the edge with more up-to-date systems and a smoother overall safety experience.

 

Choosing Your Next Drive: Ranger or Hilux?

Both the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux bring a lot to the table, but if you were to pick one of the 2024 models, we'd have to recommend the 2024 Ford Ranger. With a more versatile interior, greater power, and a slight edge in safety, the Ford Ranger is the definitive ute in this match-up. Nothing beats a test drive, so we recommend checking them out before making up your mind.

 

Whichever way you lean, protect your investment with RubberTree’s heavy-duty mats, seat covers, and boot liners, built tough, just like your ute.