2019 Ford Ranger vs 2020 RAM 1500

2019 Ford Ranger
2019 Ford Ranger
$24,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2020 RAM 1500
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Ford Ranger
$24,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

CarGurus experts evaluated the two vehicles in the contexts of their own classes. The 2019 Ford Ranger scores 7.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Ram 1500 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Ram 1500 emerges as the preferred choice due to its higher overall score and impressive safety features.

Overview

MSRP

$24,300

MSRP

$28,200

Average price

$28,158

Average price

$33,860

Listings

1283

Listings

4243
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard

2019 Ford Ranger Reviews Summary

Everyone is talking about the all-new Ranger, but there’s just one problem: It’s not all new. The last Ranger was a staple of Ford’s lineup, but it was pulled from American markets in 2011, although it’s remained on sale around the world ever since. Refreshed for 2015, it’s now returned to the US to contend with the likes of the Chevy Colorado and the Toyota Tacoma, which haven’t exactly been relaxing during the Ranger’s absence. So, how does the Ranger intend to insert itself back into this already well-established midsize pickup category? Price and power. While the Colorado and the Tacoma both offer multiple powertrain options, Ford is leaning into its recent penchant for simplicity, offering a single engine and transmission: its 2.3-liter EcoBoost paired with a 10-speed transmission.

2020 RAM 1500 Reviews Summary

A full redesign in 2019 left a significant bit of tech on the table for the increasingly popular Ram 1500: the EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine. Ram was once the only option for a half-ton diesel pickup, but emissions certification problems resulted in Ram pulling the diesel engine a few years ago. The engineers at Ram have been hard at work updating it ever since. Although the EcoDiesel wasn’t ready for 2019, it’s now available to any 2020 Ram 1500 trim, so it seems it was well worth the wait. With 80% new parts, the EcoDiesel's improvements to power, efficiency, and delivery all mean that Ram is fighting hard to change minds about America’s least-loved engine type.
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 270 hp I4

Engine

3.6L 305 hp V6

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

4

Seating Capacity

3

Horsepower

Horsepower

305 hp @ 6400 rpm

MPG City

21

MPG City

17

MPG Highway

26

MPG Highway

25
2019 Ford Ranger
2019 Ford Ranger
$24,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 RAM 1500
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Ford Ranger
$24,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

CarGurus experts evaluated the two vehicles in the contexts of their own classes. The 2019 Ford Ranger scores 7.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Ram 1500 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Ram 1500 emerges as the preferred choice due to its higher overall score and impressive safety features.

Overview
MSRP
$24,300
$28,200
Average price
$28,158
$33,860
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.5
4.7
Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Read full review

7.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Summary
Everyone is talking about the all-new Ranger, but there’s just one problem: It’s not all new. The last Ranger was a staple of Ford’s lineup, but it was pulled from American markets in 2011, although it’s remained on sale around the world ever since. Refreshed for 2015, it’s now returned to the US to contend with the likes of the Chevy Colorado and the Toyota Tacoma, which haven’t exactly been relaxing during the Ranger’s absence. So, how does the Ranger intend to insert itself back into this already well-established midsize pickup category? Price and power. While the Colorado and the Tacoma both offer multiple powertrain options, Ford is leaning into its recent penchant for simplicity, offering a single engine and transmission: its 2.3-liter EcoBoost paired with a 10-speed transmission.
A full redesign in 2019 left a significant bit of tech on the table for the increasingly popular Ram 1500: the EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine. Ram was once the only option for a half-ton diesel pickup, but emissions certification problems resulted in Ram pulling the diesel engine a few years ago. The engineers at Ram have been hard at work updating it ever since. Although the EcoDiesel wasn’t ready for 2019, it’s now available to any 2020 Ram 1500 trim, so it seems it was well worth the wait. With 80% new parts, the EcoDiesel's improvements to power, efficiency, and delivery all mean that Ram is fighting hard to change minds about America’s least-loved engine type.
Video
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.3L 270 hp I4
3.6L 305 hp V6
Drive Train
4X2
4X2
Seating Capacity
4
3
Horsepower
305 hp @ 6400 rpm
MPG City
21
17
MPG Highway
26
25
Look and feel
2019 Ford Ranger
7/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Ford Ranger as 7 out of 10 for look and feel. The Ranger returns as a midsize pickup close in dimensions to the F-150, with impressive towing and payload capacity. It offers various trims with different features and packages, making it a versatile choice for consumers. The 2020 Ram 1500 scores 8 out of 10 for look and feel. With an iconic design and a quarter-century of large-grille legacy, the Ram 1500 stands out on the road. It also offers various trims and engine options to suit different preferences and needs.
Performance
2019 Ford Ranger
8/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Ford Ranger 8 out of 10 for performance. Equipped with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 270 horsepower, the Ranger offers competitive EPA-estimated fuel efficiency and impressive acceleration. However, the steering and braking feel can be a bit numb, and the suspension may feel floaty over uneven surfaces. In comparison, the 2020 Ram 1500 scores 7 out of 10 for performance. With engine options including a reworked 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, the Ram 1500 offers powerful performance and impressive towing capacity. However, the diesel engine may have some turbo lag issues, impacting quick acceleration.
Form and function
2019 Ford Ranger
7/10
2020 RAM 1500
8/10
The 2019 Ford Ranger provides a practical and capable option for consumers, with different cab configurations, and bed sizes to suit various needs. The SuperCrew cab and 4WD options can impact payload capacity, so it's essential to choose wisely based on your requirements. The 2020 Ram 1500 offers a spacious interior with ample storage options, including a large center console and hidden pockets. However, achieving the maximum towing capacity requires precise truck configuration, limiting some functions. Cargo capacity for the 2019 Ford Ranger varies depending on the configuration, while the 2020 Ram 1500 offers over 151 liters of interior storage space, making it a versatile option for consumers.
Technology
2019 Ford Ranger
7/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10
The 2019 Ford Ranger offers technological features like a rear-view camera, USB port, and safety systems, with optional upgrades for added convenience. The available Bang & Olufsen stereo system and 4G Wi-Fi hotspot provide additional tech benefits for consumers. In comparison, the 2020 Ram 1500 boasts an advanced Uconnect system with a 12-inch touchscreen and impressive connectivity features. Every trim offers push-button start and a wealth of USB inputs, ensuring a tech-savvy experience for consumers.
Safety
2019 Ford Ranger
5/10
2020 RAM 1500
9/10
The 2019 Ford Ranger receives a safety rating of 5 out of 10, with limited test data available. One recall has been issued for a wiring sub-harness issue affecting a small number of vehicles, highlighting the need for cautious consideration. On the other hand, the 2020 Ram 1500 impresses with a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick Plus designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for the Crew Cab model with active safety equipment. However, some safety features are not standard across all trims, requiring careful selection.
Cost Effectiveness
2019 Ford Ranger
9/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Ford Ranger 9 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness, offering competitive pricing for best-in-class capabilities. Upgrading to higher trims may impact the value proposition but still presents an affordable option for consumers. In contrast, the 2020 Ram 1500 delivers excellent cost-effectiveness, with the ability to customize a base trim to match the capabilities of higher trims at a more affordable price point. The availability of powertrains, tech features, and safety equipment at various price levels makes it a compelling choice for consumers.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.