2026 Ram 1500 Laramie vs 2026 Ford Ranger XLT
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Ranger XLT starts at $37,885, $17,765 less. Ranger XLT leads with 23 MPG. 1500 Laramie makes 420 hp (+150).
| Spec | 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie | 2026 Ford Ranger XLT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $55,650 +$17,765 | $37,885 Save $17,765 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo I6 | 2.3L Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 420 hp +150 hp | 270 hp 150 hp less |
| Torque | 469 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 4 less | 21 +4 |
| Hwy MPG | 24 2 less | 26 +2 |
| Combined MPG | 19 4 less | 23 +4 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 53.9 cu ft | 33.0 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.0" | 12.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Avail. | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,250 lbs | 4,520 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 144.6" | 126.8" |
| Length | 228.9" | 211.0" |
| Wheels | 20" Chrome | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Safety Group | Co-Pilot360 |
1500 Laramie or Ranger XLT?
Both are competitive. Ranger XLT has a lower entry price, Ranger XLT leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie and 2026 Ford Ranger XLT?
Which gets better gas mileage, the 1500 Laramie or Ranger XLT?
Should I buy a 2026 Ram 1500 or Ford Ranger?
Which is more reliable, the Ram 1500 or Ford Ranger?
Is the Ram 1500 bigger than the Ford Ranger?
What is the cost of insurance for the 1500 Laramie vs Ranger XLT?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie?
Who Should Choose the 1500 Laramie
The 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie appeals to buyers who prioritize what Ram does best: capability and proven toughness. At $55,650, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Ram ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Big Horn, 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Laramie, 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Limited.
Who Should Choose the Ranger XLT
The 2026 Ford Ranger XLT is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 23 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Ford's approach to this truck emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the Ranger XLT deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $17,765 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The 1500 Laramie is positioned higher, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the 1500 Laramie makes 150 more hp. Feature differences like 150 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the truck market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 150 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these trucks will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Trucks Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe trucks with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Ram and Ford often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.