Ranger vs Tacoma - Ike Gauntlet

ksss wrote:
I am not sure what the turbo in the Ranger really bought. The time up the hill was about even. I agreed with the Russian, I would have expected more from the 10 speed and more from the turbocharged engine at that elevation. Maybe there is some programing enhancements that need to be made, but with that kind output it is not going to hold up well at all to the GM twins. While I don't find the Taco masculine I just find it ugly, but the looks of the Ranger is "weak". Call it refined if it makes you feel better, but its weak. Especially when the 150 and SD trucks look so good, someone punted on the exterior design of Ranger. I was looking for this truck to honestly set the bar higher in the segment. It clearly doesn't do that. These guys give the win to the Ranger by the narrowest of margins, but the Taco is what about 7-8 model years old? I would say Ford aimed a little low with the Ranger. Ford guys will buy it, but anyone cross-shopping the others in the segment are not likely to be blown away by the new Ranger in comparison.

In my opinion Ford knocked it out of the park and is the best looking mid size bar none.

As for the 4 cylinder turbo. It's gas powered torque is second to none and it's gas fuel economy is better than the Taco.

Having said this the Taco is a great performing truck and it has a relatively new engine so Ford did a good job edging out on performance and fuel economy.

I will say anyone who's shopping for a midsize; excluding brand loyal buyers, will give the Ranger a serious look.