2020 Ford Ranger vs 2021 Ford F-150

2020 Ford Ranger
2020 Ford Ranger
$24,410MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Ford Ranger
$24,410MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2020 Ford Ranger is 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford F-150 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Ford Ranger is the more highly recommended vehicle, although keep in mind it won’t suit those who need a full-size pickup truck.

Overview

MSRP

$24,410

MSRP

$29,290

Average price

$29,702

Average price

$40,882

Listings

1251

Listings

8564
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful engine
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Multiple body styles
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard

2020 Ford Ranger Reviews Summary

Midsize pickup trucks are not designed for the worksite. They lack the size or capability for the rigors of commercial use. These smaller trucks are lifestyle vehicles, designed for hauling bikes and kayaks. They are more at home at the campsite than the worksite.

The 2020 Ford Ranger has decent fuel economy for a pickup truck, and the optional infotainment system is terrific. It also has the towing and hauling abilities for a boat trailer or a truckload of home improvement gear. But where does the 2020 Ford Ranger stack up against other midsize pickups? Read on to find out.

2021 Ford F-150 Reviews Summary

The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the bestselling vehicle in the United States for decades, so a lot is at stake with any redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 plays it safe, with changes that are smaller in scope than the truck’s previous redesign (for the 2015 model year), but nonetheless significant.

This latest redesign brought an updated version of the previous-generation truck’s bold styling, a revamped interior with more convenience features, and the new Sync 4 infotainment system, as well as an available PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This is the first time Ford has offered an F-150 hybrid, and the PowerBoost is currently the only full-hybrid powertrain available in a full-size pickup truck.

The F-150’s traditional rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 twins and Ram 1500, along with the slower-selling Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Ford offers a staggering array of options, including six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cab configurations, three bed sizes, six powertrains, and the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Our test vehicle was an F-150 King Ranch with the SuperCrew cab, 4WD, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 270 hp I4

Engine

3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

4

Seating Capacity

3

MPG City

21

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

26

MPG Highway

24
2020 Ford Ranger
2020 Ford Ranger
$24,410MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Ford Ranger
$24,410MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2020 Ford Ranger is 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford F-150 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Ford Ranger is the more highly recommended vehicle, although keep in mind it won’t suit those who need a full-size pickup truck.

Overview
MSRP
$24,410
$29,290
Average price
$29,702
$40,882
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.3
4.7
Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful engine
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Multiple body styles
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Summary

Midsize pickup trucks are not designed for the worksite. They lack the size or capability for the rigors of commercial use. These smaller trucks are lifestyle vehicles, designed for hauling bikes and kayaks. They are more at home at the campsite than the worksite.

The 2020 Ford Ranger has decent fuel economy for a pickup truck, and the optional infotainment system is terrific. It also has the towing and hauling abilities for a boat trailer or a truckload of home improvement gear. But where does the 2020 Ford Ranger stack up against other midsize pickups? Read on to find out.

The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the bestselling vehicle in the United States for decades, so a lot is at stake with any redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 plays it safe, with changes that are smaller in scope than the truck’s previous redesign (for the 2015 model year), but nonetheless significant.

This latest redesign brought an updated version of the previous-generation truck’s bold styling, a revamped interior with more convenience features, and the new Sync 4 infotainment system, as well as an available PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This is the first time Ford has offered an F-150 hybrid, and the PowerBoost is currently the only full-hybrid powertrain available in a full-size pickup truck.

The F-150’s traditional rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 twins and Ram 1500, along with the slower-selling Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Ford offers a staggering array of options, including six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cab configurations, three bed sizes, six powertrains, and the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Our test vehicle was an F-150 King Ranch with the SuperCrew cab, 4WD, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.3L 270 hp I4
3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle
Drive Train
4X2
4X2
Seating Capacity
4
3
MPG City
21
20
MPG Highway
26
24
Look and feel
2020 Ford Ranger
7/10
2021 Ford F-150
7/10
The 2020 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Ford F-150 represent two distinct approaches to the pickup truck market by Ford. The 2020 Ranger, a midsize pickup truck, is not designed for heavy-duty work but excels as a lifestyle vehicle. It offers decent fuel economy, an optional high-quality infotainment system, and sufficient towing and hauling capabilities for recreational activities. Its position in the midsize pickup segment is solid, offering a blend of efficiency and utility for everyday use and leisure activities. In contrast, the 2021 Ford F-150, a part of the best-selling F-Series, carries significant expectations with every redesign. The 2021 model introduces moderate changes that enhance its bold styling, interior convenience, and introduces the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain—a first for the F-150. The array of options, including trim levels, cab configurations, bed sizes, and powertrains, underscores Ford's commitment to versatility in the full-size pickup truck segment.
Performance
2020 Ford Ranger
9/10
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
In performance, the 2020 Ranger impresses with a rating of 9 out of 10. Its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers substantial power for a midsize truck, supporting towing capabilities up to 7,500 pounds and offering various off-road packages. The ride quality, however, may feel stiff compared to more comfortable rivals like the Honda Ridgeline. The 2021 F-150 receives an 8 out of 10 rating. Ford provides a wide range of powertrains, including the notable PowerBoost hybrid. Despite being the most powerful option, the hybrid does not lead in towing capacity, which peaks with the non-hybrid 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Ride quality and noise levels are commendable, especially for a pickup truck.
Form and function
2020 Ford Ranger
8/10
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
Both the 2020 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Ford F-150 maintain their 8 out of 10 rating in form and function, offering a mix of practicality and convenience for varying needs. The Ranger is available in both SuperCab and SuperCrew configurations, catering to different passenger and cargo requirements. The SuperCab pairs with a six-foot bed, while the SuperCrew comes with a five-foot bed, tailored for those prioritizing seating over bed space. Features like the optional spray-in bed liner and absence of a bed-step highlight Ford's focus on utility within the midsize truck segment. The 2021 F-150, on the other hand, pushes the envelope in making the full-size pickup truck more accommodating as a mobile office and a practical workhorse. With interior innovations such as the fold-flat shifter for a makeshift work surface and Max Recline Seats for resting, Ford integrates function with comfort. The F-150 offers bed sizes of 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8-foot, complemented by features like optional power running boards and a tailgate step to ease access. The inclusion of in-bed power outlets, especially with the Pro Power Onboard system, underscores the F-150's readiness for various work and leisure applications.
Technology
2020 Ford Ranger
9/10
2021 Ford F-150
9/10
Technology ratings stand at 9 out of 10 for both trucks. The Ranger's technology offerings include FordPass Connect for remote access and Wi-Fi capability, with upgrades across trims enhancing entertainment and connectivity. The F-150 introduces Ford’s Sync 4 system, providing a larger touchscreen, over-the-air updates, and advanced towing aids, reflecting Ford's investment in tech to improve user experience.
Safety
2020 Ford Ranger
7/10
2021 Ford F-150
7/10
Safety ratings for both trucks are 7 out of 10. The Ranger includes essential safety features across trims, with Ford CoPilot 360 available in higher trims. It has performed well in crash tests, though it has room for improvement in passenger-side protection. The F-150's safety features are comprehensive under the Ford CoPilot360 suite, with future updates adding even more capabilities.
Cost Effectiveness
2020 Ford Ranger
8/10
2021 Ford F-150
7/10
The Ranger earns an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness, offering competitive fuel economy and a strong value proposition in its segment, especially in towing and hauling. The F-150 scores 7 out of 10, as the PowerBoost hybrid, despite its efficiency, presents a less compelling value compared to other powertrains. Both trucks offer a range of options that can significantly affect the final price.
CarGurus logo

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.