When it comes to utes in Australia, two names dominate the conversation year after year: the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux. These aren’t just vehicles – they’re workhorses, status symbols, and lifestyle machines rolled into one. In 2025, both models are updated with new tech, safety upgrades, and subtle refinements that matter to tradies, fleet buyers, and off-road adventurers alike.
But the million-dollar question remains: Which is the better ute for tradies in 2025 – the Ford Ranger or the Toyota Hilux?
To answer that, we’ll dig into every aspect: design, comfort, features, technology, towing and payload, safety, off-road ability, pricing, running costs, and ownership. By the end, you’ll know which ute deserves your spot on the job site and which one offers the better balance of work and play.
The Legacy of the Hilux and Ranger
The Toyota Hilux has been Australia’s top-selling ute for decades. Known for bulletproof reliability, rugged build, and massive resale value, it’s become the “go-to” choice for both tradies and fleet operators. Its reputation is so strong that even older Hilux models fetch high prices on the used market.
The Ford Ranger, meanwhile, has evolved into a serious competitor – and in many years, even outsold the Hilux. Designed and engineered in Australia, the Ranger has been tailored to local needs. Tradies love its muscular design, advanced tech, and comfort that rivals many SUVs. The 2025 update continues this trend with more refinements that make the Ranger feel more premium than ever.
So, reliability versus innovation, tradition versus modern features – that’s the battle we’re exploring.
Exterior Design and Road Presence
Tradies care about image just as much as function, especially since utes often double as family cars.
Ford Ranger 2025: The Ranger looks bold and aggressive with its American-inspired front fascia, C-clamp LED headlights, and wider stance. It gives off a “mini F-150” vibe, which many Aussie buyers love. The Wildtrak and Raptor trims in particular look muscular, with sports bars, off-road tyres, and tough styling touches.
Toyota Hilux 2025: The Hilux maintains its traditional tough-as-nails design. It’s slightly less flashy than the Ranger, but Toyota has given it updated headlights, a refreshed grille, and minor styling tweaks. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it carries an air of resilience and reliability.
Verdict: The Ranger wins on style and presence, especially for buyers who want their ute to stand out in the car park. The Hilux appeals more to those who value understated toughness.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
Tradies often spend long hours driving between job sites, so cabin comfort matters.
Ford Ranger 2025: Inside, the Ranger feels closer to a modern SUV than a workhorse. You get a vertical 10.1-inch or 12-inch infotainment screen (depending on trim), digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a car-like driving position. Seats are well-padded, storage is plentiful, and higher trims feature leather upholstery and heated seats.
Toyota Hilux 2025: Toyota has upgraded the Hilux interior with a new 9-inch touchscreen, improved materials, and better sound insulation. It’s more comfortable than ever, but still feels more utilitarian than the Ranger. Space in the back seat is decent, though the Ranger has slightly more legroom and cabin width.
Verdict: For comfort, tech, and refinement, the Ranger takes the crown. The Hilux is functional and durable but doesn’t feel as modern.
Technology and Features
Ford Ranger: Packed with modern features, including a massive infotainment system, configurable digital cluster, connected car features, remote start, 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, and advanced towing assistance. Even mid-spec models feel well-equipped.
Toyota Hilux: Offers wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, improved infotainment, and a suite of driver-assist features, but still lags behind the Ranger in terms of advanced technology.
Verdict: The Ranger is miles ahead for tradies who want their ute to double as a tech-savvy daily driver.
Engine Options and Performance
Ford Ranger 2025: Offers multiple engines including a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel (154kW/500Nm), a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel (184kW/600Nm), and in the Raptor, a 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 (292kW/583Nm). These options mean tradies can pick based on towing needs, budget, or sheer performance desires.
Toyota Hilux 2025: Sticks with its 2.8-litre turbo-diesel (150kW/500Nm) as the mainstay, with mild-hybrid assistance on some trims for better fuel economy. Toyota prioritises proven reliability over big power.
Verdict: The Ranger offers more powertrain variety and grunt, while the Hilux leans on reliability and consistency. For towing and heavy payloads, the Ranger V6 diesel shines.
Towing and Payload
Tradies often need their ute to tow trailers, equipment, or caravans.
Ford Ranger: 3,500kg braked towing capacity across most engines, with clever towing aids like trailer connection checklist, integrated brake controller, and 360-degree camera views. Payload is around 900–1,200kg depending on variant.
Toyota Hilux: Also rated at 3,500kg braked towing, with payload capacity ranging from 1,000–1,200kg. However, the Hilux doesn’t match the Ranger’s towing tech, making it slightly less convenient for frequent tow-ers.
Verdict: Both tow equally on paper, but the Ranger’s tech makes life easier. Hilux remains strong, dependable, and proven.
Off-Road Capability
Both utes are designed for the job site and beyond.
Ford Ranger: Selectable drive modes, locking differentials, low-range gearbox, and in Raptor form, long-travel suspension for serious off-roading. Even non-Raptor models handle rough terrain with confidence.
Toyota Hilux: Famous for rugged off-road durability. Features include low-range gearing, rear diff lock, hill descent control, and strong suspension tuning. It may not have as many flashy modes, but Hilux’s durability is proven in the harshest conditions.
Verdict: Ranger offers more advanced features and comfort off-road, but the Hilux is still the no-nonsense choice for punishing worksites.
Safety and Ratings
Ford Ranger: ANCAP 5-star rated with advanced driver assistance: adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, blind-spot monitoring, trailer coverage, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), and reverse braking assist.
Toyota Hilux: Also ANCAP 5-star rated. Comes with Toyota Safety Sense: AEB, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise, and speed sign recognition. Slightly fewer advanced features than the Ranger.
Verdict: Both are safe, but the Ranger edges ahead with more comprehensive driver aids.
Running Costs and Ownership
Hilux: Known for bulletproof reliability, low servicing surprises, and excellent resale value. Many tradies see it as a long-term investment. Servicing intervals are shorter than the Ranger’s but cheaper.
Ranger: Service costs are higher, but intervals are longer. Resale is strong, though not quite at Hilux levels. However, owners benefit from more comfort and features.
Verdict: Hilux is the better long-term, low-risk ownership choice. Ranger gives you more features but may cost a little more to run.
Pricing in Australia (2025)
Ford Ranger:
Base XL (4x2 single cab): from ~$36,000
Popular XLT dual cab: from ~$56,000
Wildtrak V6: from ~$72,000
Raptor: from ~$87,000
Toyota Hilux:
Workmate single cab: from ~$31,000
SR5 dual cab: from ~$58,000
Rogue: from ~$70,000
GR Sport: from ~$75,000
Verdict: Hilux has a slightly lower entry point. Ranger offers more premium trims with higher tech but commands higher prices.
Which Ute Should Tradies Buy in 2025?
If you’re a tradie who values rugged reliability, lower running costs, and unbeatable resale value, the Toyota Hilux remains your best bet. It’s the dependable tool that just keeps working.
But if you want a ute that doubles as a workhorse and a daily driver, with modern tech, SUV-like comfort, and stronger performance options, the Ford Ranger is the ute to buy in 2025.
In short:
Hilux = Long-term reliability, resale, and dependability.
Ranger = Power, tech, comfort, and premium feel.
Both are winners, but your choice depends on whether you want no-nonsense reliability or a modern, versatile tradie machine.
Final Thoughts
The Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux rivalry in 2025 is closer than ever. Ford has nailed the modern ute formula with class-leading features and performance, while Toyota sticks to its reputation for toughness and reliability. For many tradies, the decision may come down to budget, resale value, or whether you prefer modern luxury or tried-and-true simplicity.
One thing’s certain: whichever you choose, both the Ranger and Hilux remain the top dogs in Australia’s ute market – and for good reason.
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