Ford, a prominent player in the pickup truck arena, offered two outstanding models for the 2021 model year: the Ford Ranger and the Ford F-150. While both are exceptional in their own right, they cater to distinct segments of the market. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll delve into the nuances that set these two trucks apart, helping you make an informed decision if you're in the market for a new pickup.
2021 Ford F-150 vs 2021 Ford Ranger: Pickup Truck Comparison
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Ford Ranger with a solid 8 out of 10. This midsize pickup comes in SuperCab and SuperCrew styles, offering versatility for various needs. The Ranger is available in XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels, and it's powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It comes equipped with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).
The Ranger Tremor, with its off-road prowess, adds a rugged edge to the lineup. The Tremor off-road package boasts unique features like 17-inch dark gray wheels, 32-inch all-terrain tires, red grille accents, and off-road side steps. Inside, the Tremor combines Lariat trim with upscale elements like simulated suede seat inserts and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the cabin features some hard plastic surfaces typical of the segment, it maintains a clean and contemporary design.
The 2021 Ford F-150, a full-size truck, is also rated 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. This latest redesign retains the F-150's iconic styling, but with some updates like a new front fascia and bigger headlights. The new look isn't just for show; it improves aerodynamics, thanks to features like active grille shutters and an automatically deploying air dam.
Ford's impressive variety is evident in the F-150 lineup, offering six trim levels, three cab configurations, three bed sizes, and six powertrains. The standout addition is the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain, combining a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor, making it the most powerful choice. The F-150 also offers remarkable payload and towing capacity, outperforming some competitors.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Ford Ranger a 7 out of 10 for performance. It's powered by a robust turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Ranger's performance is well-rounded, offering swift acceleration and refined handling on both paved roads and challenging terrains.
The Tremor Off-Road Package elevates the Ranger's capabilities with features like a Terrain Management System, electronic locking rear differential, and Trail Control. It delivers a remarkable 9.7 inches of ground clearance, making off-road adventures a breeze. Towing capacity maxes out at 7,500 pounds, while payload capacity varies based on configuration.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 F-150 an 8 out of 10 for performance, in part due to its impressive array of powertrain options. This includes naturally-aspirated V6 and V8 engines, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 options, a Power Stroke turbodiesel, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. The latter stands out as the most powerful, with 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque.
The F-150's capabilities extend to payload and towing, with maximum figures reaching 3,325 pounds and 14,000 pounds, respectively, depending on the chosen configuration. The PowerBoost hybrid offers impressive fuel efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those who need both power and economy.
Form and Function
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Ford Ranger a 5 out of 10 for form and function. The Ranger Tremor's design includes hoop-style step bars, which, though sturdy, might pose challenges for taller individuals. Inside, it offers comfortable seats (heated for added comfort in cold weather). Additionally, the Ranger's rear-seat space is more accommodating than most midsize trucks.
A generious 43.3 cubic-foot bed offers ample cargo space, complemented by four tie-down hooks. While it lacks some storage convenience and tailgate damping, Ford offers various accessories to tailor the Ranger to your specific needs.
The Ford F-150 shines in form and function with an 8 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. It boasts thoughtful features like a fold-flat shifter that doubles as a work surface, ideal for those who use their trucks as mobile offices. The range of cab and bed sizes caters to diverse requirements.
The F-150 offers impressive storage, including a sizable center-console bin and ample cupholders. It even comes with a smartly angled wireless-charging pad. Ford's Pro Power Onboard system, with up to 7.2 kW of output, provides in-bed power outlets for various needs, setting it apart from the competition.
When it comes to technology, both the 2021 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Ford F-150 have a lot to offer, but they have their differences.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Ford Ranger's technology at a solid 8 out of 10. The Ranger Tremor comes equipped with Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display. This system offers a host of features, including voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, AppLink with Waze and Ford + Alexa, and FordPass Connect with a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot and remote access to various functions. Navigation and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system further enhance the tech experience.
However, during testing, the voice recognition system showed some inconsistency, occasionally misunderstanding commands. Despite this, the climate control integration with Sync 3 allows you to easily adjust temperature settings using voice commands.
The 2021 Ford F-150 steps it up a notch with a technology rating of 9 out of 10 according to CarGurus experts. It boasts the newly available Sync 4 infotainment system as an option, which offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with over-the-air updates. The standard setup includes an 8-inch touchscreen, but the King Ranch test model featured an optional 12-inch touchscreen, paired with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. .
Menus are logically organized on the horizontally oriented and generously sized touchscreen, and physical buttons and knobs are provided for essential functions like temperature control and audio volume. Sync 4's improved processing power makes it more responsive, although it still takes a moment to fully load upon startup.
Additionally, the 2021 F-150 offers a Pro Trailer Backup Assist system for easier trailer maneuvering and other driver aids that make towing less intimidating.
In terms of technology, the 2021 Ford F-150 edges ahead with its Sync 4 system and enhanced towing aids.
Safety
The 2021 Ford Ranger earns a safety rating of 7 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. Ford equips the Ranger with its Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist features, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. The system also includes a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic warning and trailer coverage.
Rain-sensing wipers, wiper-activated headlights, and rear parking sensors add to the convenience and safety. In crash tests, the Ranger performs well, with notable exceptions being its three-star rollover resistance rating and headlight ratings.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Ford F-150's safety at 7 out of 10. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, and more. Additional advanced safety features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, hill-descent control, and intersection assist are available for an extra cost.
One notable feature is the Active Drive Assist system, capable of handling acceleration, braking, and steering on certain divided highways. It's worth mentioning that the previous-generation model's roof strength received a top "good" rating from IIHS, suggesting strong structural integrity.
Both vehicles offer solid safety features, making them suitable choices for safety-conscious consumers.
The 2021 Ford Ranger doesn't necessarily stand out as a budget-friendly option in its segment, but it shines in terms of refinement, comfort, and capabilities. It strikes a balance between being less truck-like than body-on-frame competitors and more rugged than a Honda Ridgeline. With comfortable seats, a potent turbocharged engine, and high towing and hauling capacities, the Ranger offers a compelling package.
The 2021 Ford F-150, particularly the PowerBoost hybrid model, stands out in terms of fuel efficiency for a full-size pickup. The hybrid variant achieves impressive gas mileage, although it comes at a premium over the non-hybrid powertrain. Despite the higher initial cost, it can save money in the long run with better fuel efficiency.
However, the pricing of the F-150 can escalate quickly with added options, so it's essential to consider your budget and needs when configuring the ideal F-150 model.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Ford Ranger is 7 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford F-150 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, here are our recommendations:
Choose 2021 Ford Ranger if:
You seek a well-rounded midsize pickup truck with a comfortable interior and off-road capabilities.
Fuel efficiency is not your top priority, and you value a balance between refinement and ruggedness.
You prefer a more compact truck for everyday urban driving and occasional off-roading adventures.
In conclusion, both the 2021 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Ford F-150 offer their own set of advantages, so your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
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