The Battle of the Titans: Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux (2025 Edition)
When it comes to choosing the best pickup truck in the UK, two names dominate the conversation: the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux. Both have earned reputations for toughness, reliability, and versatility—but which one is right for you in 2025?
Whether you’re a tradesperson, weekend adventurer, or rural homeowner, this head-to-head comparison will help you decide between the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.
Performance & Power
Ford Ranger (2025)
The latest Ranger offers an impressive range of engines, including the punchy 2.0l EcoBlue and the new 3.0l V6 diesel on the Wildtrak and Raptor trims. It's powerful, smooth, and a joy to drive on both tarmac and trails.
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Max towing capacity: 3,500kg
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Payload: Up to 1,200kg
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Power (top spec): 240+ bhp (V6 models)
Toyota Hilux (2025)
The Hilux retains its legendary durability and off-road ability. The 2.8L turbo diesel is now more refined than ever, and Toyota has focused on making it smoother and more efficient.
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Max towing capacity: 3,500kg
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Payload: Around 1,000kg
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Power (top spec): 204 bhp
Verdict:
The Ranger offers more engine options and better refinement. If you want a powerful, car-like driving experience, it edges ahead. But the Hilux’s reliability and off-road pedigree remain hard to beat.
Interior & Technology
Ford Ranger
Inside the 2025 Ranger, you’ll find a modern, SUV-style cabin with a large vertical touchscreen, digital driver display, and plenty of creature comforts—even on mid-spec trims. The tech and infotainment are top-tier.
Toyota Hilux
The Hilux interior is functional and solid. While it’s improved in recent years with an 8” touchscreen and better soundproofing, it still feels more utilitarian than the Ranger.
Verdict:
If interior comfort and connectivity are priorities, the Ranger is the clear winner.
Off-Road Capability
Both pickups have selectable 4wd, locking rear differentials, and strong ground clearance. The Hilux has decades of proven durability in extreme environments, while the Ranger, especially in Raptor spec, is tuned for aggressive off-roading.
Verdict:
Hilux for tried-and-tested toughness. Ranger Raptor for off-road thrills. Otherwise, both are highly capable for the UK countryside and muddy job sites.
Running Costs & Reliability
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Hilux is famously reliable and built to last, with lower long-term maintenance costs.
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Ranger is more complex, and V6 versions may come with higher insurance or fuel bills—but offer more power and comfort in return.
Verdict:
Hilux wins on dependability and simplicity. Ranger offers more features, but possibly at a cost.
Styling & Accessories
Ford Ranger
With its bold front end and sporty trims like the Wildtrak and Raptor, the Ranger turns heads. It’s also the most accessorised pickup in the UK. At Eagle4x4, we stock a full range of Ford Ranger accessories, including:
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Hardtop canopies
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Roller shutters
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Body styling kits
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LED light upgrades
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Interior trim packs
Toyota Hilux
The Hilux has a more understated look, with fewer factory style variants. However, it’s still highly customisable—and we supply a full range of Toyota Hilux accessories for work and lifestyle use.
Verdict:
The Ranger offers more scope for personalisation, especially for those looking to make a visual impact.
Pricing & Value
The Hilux tends to hold its value slightly better thanks to Toyota’s bulletproof reliability and strong resale demand. The Ranger often comes with more features as standard, especially in higher trims.
Verdict:
Hilux for long-term resale, Ranger for more spec per pound today.
So… Which Should You Buy in 2025?
Category | Winner |
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Power & Performance | Ford Ranger |
Interior & Tech | Ford Ranger |
Off-Road Durability | Toyota Hilux |
Reliability | Toyota Hilux |
Accessory Options | Ford Ranger |
Resale Value | Toyota Hilux |
Everyday Driving Comfort | Ford Ranger |
Choose the Ford Ranger if:
You want comfort, power, and the latest tech, with endless ways to customise your truck for both work and lifestyle.
Choose the Toyota Hilux if:
You prioritise long-term durability, simplicity, and off-road dependability, with lower running costs.
Accessorise Your Pickup at Eagle4x4
Whichever pickup you choose, make it your own with premium pickup accessories from Eagle4x4.com. We offer a full range of:
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Ford Ranger accessories
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Toyota Hilux upgrades
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Load bed covers, canopies, LED lighting, and more
With fast dispatch and decades of experience, we’re trusted by UK pickup owners to deliver quality and service.