Ford Ranger vs Jeep Wrangler

While Ford outsells all other brands with its full-size pickup trucks, it lags behind in the midsize class. The Ranger, once the king of small trucks, hasn’t been a strong seller since Ford relaunched it for the 2019 model year. The smaller Maverick currently outsells the Ranger by nearly two to one. For 2024, the new Ranger brings more of everything: power, tech, refinement, space, and most importantly, choice. Is it too late for Ford to catch up? We tested a Ranger XLT to find out.

Verdict: With new V6 engines and a Raptor trim, the 2024 Ford Ranger offers greater choice and capability to finally match the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma.

You know what you’re getting with the Jeep Wrangler: iconic looks and legendary off-road ability but an overall package somewhat out of step with the times. Even so, it’s a model that’s continually evolving, and Jeep does its best to appeal to the broadest cross-section of customers possible. You can get a Wrangler with two-door or four-door body styles, and you have a choice between two engines and six trim levels. This year, all 2025 Wrangler models have standard power windows and door locks, the V6/automatic drivetrain returns to the lineup, while new colours include ’41 (drab green), and Mojito (bright green).

Verdict: Rough, raw, and unrefined, the 2025 Wrangler is made for adventure and getting dirty. The top comes off. The doors come off. There are drain holes in the floor so you can hose it out. This Jeep can be unpleasant to drive daily, yet we love it just the same.