Comparing the Ford F-150 vs. Ford Ranger

Engines and Performance Capabilities

The full-size Ford F-150 has a robust powertrain lineup, including:

• 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 making 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque
• 5.0-liter V8 producing 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque
• 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 delivering 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque
• High-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 generating 450horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque
• 3.5-liter PowerBoost Hybrid V6 producing 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque
• High-output Supercharged 5.2-liter V8 making 720 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque

Ford F-150 trucks are engineered for heavy lifting, with a maximum towing capacity of 16,500 pounds and a 2,440-pound maximum payload.

The midsize Ford Ranger is a smaller truck, but it has plenty of muscle for daily use from a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine that generates 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The engine mates with a 10-speed automatic transmission, achieving confident handling and responsive gearing without bulk, with a maximum tow rating of up to 7,500 pounds and a 1,788-pound payload.

Off-Road Readiness

Both trucks offer off-road variants but hit different targets.

Ford F-150 Raptor and Tremor models increase aggression with available 37-inch tires, FOX Live Valve shocks, locking differentials, and trail cameras. The new Raptor R even drops in a supercharged V8. These trims aim for wide-open terrain and desert-style speed.

Ranger Tremor and FX4 packages focus more on agile trail crawling. A lifted suspension, skid plates, off-road tuned shocks, and terrain management all play well in rocky, wooded terrain or muddy access roads. Narrower dimensions help the Ford Ranger slip through tighter trails.

The Ford Ranger's smaller frame and nimble wheelbase give it an edge on backcountry switchbacks. The Ford F-150 dominates in open, uneven terrain with torque-heavy options and high-speed dampers.

Interior Cab Amenities, Seating Capacities, and Cargo Capacities

Ford F-150 interiors range from practical to plush. Regular, SuperCab, and SuperCrew configurations support two to six passengers. Higher trims like LARIAT, King Ranch, and Platinum add leather seating, multi-contour massaging seats, and optional work surfaces. Even base models feel purposeful with big knobs, clear controls, and wide door openings. The rear seats flip up, revealing secure in-cab storage. Bed lengths include 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8-foot options, with features like Pro Power Onboard, BoxLink, and integrated tailgate cleats.

Ford Ranger trucks offer SuperCab and SuperCrew cabs, with room for four or five passengers. Cabin space is narrower, but legroom holds up surprisingly well in the SuperCrew. The interior keeps things functional with rubberized switches, intuitive touchscreen controls, and available leather accents on higher trims.

Ford Ranger beds measure five to six feet, with easy step-in height and a practical tailgate. Despite smaller overall dimensions, the layout balances compact form with day-to-day utility.

Technology and Safety Features

Ford F-150 technology features scale from basic to advanced across its broad lineup. Entry-level trims feature an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Higher trims offer a 12-inch center display, digital gauges, and optional hands-free driving with BlueCruise. Wireless updates, onboard generator power, and 360-degree cameras highlight its advanced productivity and road awareness.

Ford Ranger models include Ford SYNC 4A with a 10.1- or optional 12-inch touchscreen, voice recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping system, blind spot monitoring with trailer coverage, and rear parking sensors.

Both trucks offer Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist tech, though the Ford F-150 builds out the package with additional towing aids, smart cruise tech, and head-up displays on premium trims.