208 South James St.
Grayling, MI 49738
When it comes to the truck market, there are many options to consider. Two of the most popular are the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. But which one is the better option for? This is a question many have asked, and it's one we're happy to answer. So, let's take a look at these trucks and see which one comes out on top.
Ford Explorer vs. Chevrolet Traverse
Ford Ranger
Toyota Tacoma
| Ford Ranger | Toyota Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 270 hp @ 5500 rpm | 278 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Engine torque | 310 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm. | 317 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 19 / 26 / 22 MPG | 19 / 24 / 21 MPG |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 gal. | 18.2 gal. |
| Tire size | 255/70R17 | 245/70R17 |
*Comparison source: Edmunds (https://www.edmunds.com/car-comparisons/).
When it comes to performance, both the 2026 Ranger and Tacoma offer impressive capabilities for Roscommon and West Branch drivers. The Ranger comes standard with a potent 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft of torque, while higher trims get access to a muscular 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with 325 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft of torque.
The Tacoma's engine options include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft of torque and a 3.5L V6 delivering 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft of torque. Both trucks offer a choice between 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
Need to tow a boat up to Houghton Lake or haul a heavy load around Grayling? Both the Ranger and Tacoma provide impressive towing and payload ratings. The Ranger tops out at 7,500 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine and tow package. The Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs. when outfitted with the 3.5-liter V6 and available tow prep.
Payload capacity is another important consideration for truck buyers in northern Michigan. The Ranger can haul up to 1,860 lbs. with its fully-boxed frame - meanwhile, the Tacoma maxes out at a 1,685-lb payload rating when equipped with the V6 engine.
Both the 2026 Ranger and Tacoma will be available with different bed lengths and cab configurations. If you frequently need to carry longer items around Roscommon, the Ranger's available six-foot bed option provides extra space and can be equipped with convenient tie-down hooks and a spray-in bedliner. The Tacoma comes standard with a five-foot bed, with a six-foot bed available on certain trims.
As for cabs, the Ranger offers a versatile SuperCrew four-door configuration that provides expansive passenger space and can be optioned with premium leather seating. The Tacoma is available in Access Cab and Double Cab styles, giving you a choice of seating arrangements. Rear seat storage compartments and under-seat storage add to the Tacoma's utility.
Staying connected is important for many truck owners in the Kalkaska area. The 2026 Ranger and Tacoma both offer advanced infotainment systems with large touchscreens, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available navigation, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. Premium audio systems like the Ranger's 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen setup or the Tacoma's available JBL audio are also on tap to keep you entertained.
Additional technology features available on both trucks include wireless phone charging, multiple USB ports, keyless entry and push-button start, and advanced driver assist systems. The Ranger's available SYNC 4 system provides natural voice control and over-the-air software updates for seamless connectivity.
Whether you're driving around Gaylord or heading out on a weekend adventure, the Ranger and Tacoma provide confidence with their advanced safety technologies. Both trucks offer features like pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane departure alert, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Ranger's available Ford Co-Pilot360 system adds adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility when maneuvering. Toyota Safety Sense, standard on the Tacoma, includes pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and road sign recognition to help you stay aware of your surroundings.
The 2026 Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma are two highly capable midsize pickups. But at the end of the day, the best choice is the new Ford Ranger. With stronger performance, better towing, and more comprehensive features, the Ranger outshines the Tacoma. To explore the Ranger in person and take a test drive, we invite you to visit Feeny Ford of Grayling. Our team is here to serve customers from Grayling to Houghton Lake and all throughout Northern Michigan. Stop by our dealership today and let us help you find your ultimate midsize truck.
All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Prices include all costs to be paid by a consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, taxes and Michigan State $280 doc fee
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208 South James St.
Grayling, MI 49738