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Is the Ranger the Hilux we've been wanting?
- Thread starter life_w_vagabonds
- Start date
shade
Well-known member
The Tacoma definitely has its shortcomings. In a way, it reminds me of how Ford treated the Panther platform. It was basically the last fleet car standing in its market segment, so Ford was able to make marginal upgrades for years and they still sold well enough that I'm sure the profits were significant. Sound familiar?
My hope is that pressure in the midsize pickup market will force more innovation, but I don't think it'll happen as long as the advantages of a midsize are relatively small compared to all that a fullsize has to offer.
calicamper
Expedition Leader
You know that 10speed with hybrid motor sitting between the Engine and torque converter? I Think thats Fords new Hybrid game. The Aviator gives us a glance into that chrystal ball. 450hp 600ftlbs of torque out of 3L. I think that is a game changer folks be it smaller compact trucks or SUVs and likely F150’s. No doubt Mustang will probably get some crazy version too.
calicamper
Expedition Leader
Yeah No I think Toyota got caught with their pants down fooling around with their sister. Oh and that 10spd was co developed with GM. I think a whole new game is about to go down regarding capable, powerful and crazy efficient rigs.
NoDak
Well-known member
The Ranger is a global platform designed to compete directly with the global Hilux. The designed for and produced for the suburban streets and smooth highway systems US domestic market Tacoma isn't in the same league in terms of durability and load carrying. Since I can't buy a Hilux in the US I'll probably end up replacing my 4Runner and my F150 with a new Ranger.
shade
Well-known member
Let's not go overboard. The Tacoma isn't a Hilux, but it's not on par with the Ridgeline, either. The reviews I've seen of the Ranger don't make it out to be a segment crushing supertruck.
The Tacoma is a good truck, but Toyota hasn't put much innovation into it. Spiff up the drivetrain and move to rear coil springs, and Toyota could address many shortcomings.
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NoDak
Well-known member
I would like to see Toyota engineers increase the strength of the frames, suspension and address the drivetrain before any more tech innovations. But then I also use my trucks like trucks are intended to be used so I’m like 1% of the market and they need it to ride nice for the people who just buy them for status symbols.
Hilldweller
SE Expedition Society
I didn't know that Tacomas were status symbols....
shade
Well-known member
I'm not sure how much more frame strength is required in a truck of this class (corrosion resistance is a separate issue), but the suspension is easily addressed with aftermarket parts that are superior to anything offered by an OEM.
Toyota's major failing with the Tacoma is the middling drivetrain, IMO. Mainly, the fuel economy and power seems low compared to what's being realized with fullsize trucks.
Plenty of people use midsize "trucks like trucks are intended to be used", but manufacturers will always tell you to buy a bigger truck if you want more load capacity. That may not be what we want to hear, but that's the way it works, and I don't see that ever changing.
Scott Brady
Founder
Personally, I see the Chevrolet Bison as the Hilux we have been wanting. Diesel engine, front and rear lockers, 1,600 pound payload.
shade
Well-known member
It's a good example of where Toyota has failed to take the Tacoma, but I think the price of the Bison is a bit much.
calicamper
Expedition Leader
Not when a Explorer station wagon is hitting $60,000. The Bison looks like a screaming deal.
A SUV on the Canyon/Colorado platform with the fancy suspension, wider stance, lockers would be interesting. Especially if it had 2seat overflow mini 3rd row for occasional kid bus needs.
shade
Well-known member
In world with $60k Explorers, I wouldn't be driving one of those, either.
I won't go into the inflation argument, or the old argument of OEM warranty vs. DIY.
To me, the Bison isn't worth $50k, but I don't begrudge those that buy one. It's a nice truck.
Actually, all of the midsize pickups available in North America are pretty nice in their own way.
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