The eternal question: Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux - which is better?

Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux is one of the more hotly contested rivalries of the past decade in New Zealand. These two utes have battled it out at the top of the sales charts, Ranger doing the seemingly impossible by unseating the Hilux. The Ford Ranger currently wears the crown as the country’s best-selling vehicle, while the Toyota Hilux remains its closest challenger in the truck battle. But which is the better ute for you?

The Ranger looks and feels like the fresher package. Its bold exterior styling is backed up by a modern, SUV-like cabin. Digital instruments, a large central touchscreen, wireless charging and multiple USB-C ports make it feel high-tech and family friendly.

The Hilux, while recently updated with wider tracks and suspension tweaks, still shows its age inside. Its smaller screen, analogue dials, and harder plastics are functional but less refined. Where the Toyota shines is in its durability with the sort of cabin that will happily survive years of tradie boots, muddy dogs, and dust.

Winner: Ranger for modern comfort, Hilux for rugged practicality.

In New Zealand, the Ranger has a couple of engine options including a muscular V6 turbo-diesel, while most variants are powered by the 2.0-litre bi-turbo. This punches out decent numbers though with 154kW/500Nm, paired with a 10-speed auto. Both engine and transmission are not without their troubles however.

Hilux sticks with its trusty 2.8-litre four-cylinder, producing 150kW/500Nm through a six-speed auto. The recent addition of a mild hybrid electrics isn’t anything to worry about though. It’s a reliable workhorse but not as refined. The Ranger feels smoother, quieter and stronger, especially with the V6.

Winner: Ranger for power and refinement, Hilux for proven reliability.

Daily driving is where the Ranger really shines. Its ride quality is closer to an SUV, with a calmer rear end over bumps and lighter, quicker steering.

The Hilux can feel noisier and more unsettled on rougher tarmac. Its steering is heavier and turning circle wider, making city manoeuvres trickier. That said, Toyota’s suspension tweaks have improved cornering stability.

Winner: Ranger.

The Hilux, with improved suspension geometry, wider tracks and upgraded brakes, remains one of the toughest 4WDs out there.

The Ranger, however, is no slouch. Its selectable drive modes, advanced traction systems and strong low-range performance give it genuine off-road cred.

Winner: Hilux for hardcore off-roaders, Ranger for tech-enhanced versatility.

Both utes are rated to tow 3500kg with a 350kg down weight on the tow bar. The Hilux tray is longer and wider at the tailgate, making it slightly more useful for bulkier loads.

The Ranger counters with clever features: a built-in tray step, lighter tailgate with soft-close, central-locking tailgate, and an electric roller shutter on top trims.

Winner: Ranger for features, Hilux for tray size.

The Ranger leads the charge here with a digital dash, large portrait touchscreen, surround-view cameras and self-parking features. Toyota has added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, but its infotainment system feels dated.

Winner: Ranger.

The Hilux double cab range starts at $46,490 rising up to $76,990 for the top GR Sport. That’s drive-away pricing too, with no more to pay but also no room to haggle. The Ranger double cab line up starts at $56,490 and tops out at $96,490 for the outrageous Raptor. Toyota also offers capped-price servicing, and Hilux resale values are famously strong.

The Ranger is more expensive but comes with more kit included as standard. Long-term, Hilux’s bulletproof reputation and strong resale can make it the safer financial bet.

Winner: Hilux for value and reliability, Ranger for upfront features.