2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport 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, $1,235 less. Ranger XLT leads with 23 MPG. Tacoma TRD Sport makes 278 hp (+8).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport | 2026 Ford Ranger XLT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,120 +$1,235 | $37,885 Save $1,235 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo I4 | 2.3L Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 278 hp +8 hp | 270 hp 8 hp less |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 2 less | 21 +2 |
| Hwy MPG | 24 2 less | 26 +2 |
| Combined MPG | 21 2 less | 23 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 32.7 cu ft | 33.0 cu ft |
| Screen | 14.0" | 12.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,640 lbs | 4,520 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 128.1" | 126.8" |
| Length | 212.3" | 211.0" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | Co-Pilot360 |
Tacoma TRD Sport 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 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport and 2026 Ford Ranger XLT?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Tacoma TRD Sport or Ranger XLT?
Should I buy a 2026 Toyota Tacoma or Ford Ranger?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota Tacoma or Ford Ranger?
Is the Toyota Tacoma bigger than the Ford Ranger?
What is the cost of insurance for the Tacoma TRD Sport vs Ranger XLT?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport?
Who Should Choose the Tacoma TRD Sport
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport appeals to buyers who prioritize what Toyota does best: capability and proven toughness. At $39,120, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: Tacoma SR vs Tacoma SR5, Tacoma SR vs Tacoma TRD Sport, Tacoma SR vs Tacoma TRD Off-Road.
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 $1,235 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Tacoma TRD Sport is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Tacoma TRD Sport makes 8 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 8 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. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. 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 Toyota 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.