Ford Ranger Raptor vs Toyota HiLux Rugged X Review

Unsealed 4X4
Unsealed 4X4
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Published 2019-06-25
When you’re comparing a ‘normal’ Ranger with a ‘normal’ HiLux, it’s a much more straightforward comparison. Both models are fighting for exactly the same patch of grass, and go about it in slightly different ways. The Rugged X and the Raptor are both indicators of where this ute market is heading: premium, performance-oriented utes that are shirking their vestige of simple and honest working vehicles.

Where the Raptor has gone is serious suspension performance and bigger off-road rubber, making it a much more potent performer off-road. Aside from lacking a few ponies, the Raptor is a package that works very nicely overall. The amount of effort that goes into making something like this work cannot be underestimated, and is something Ford’s Aussie R&D team should be very proud of.

The HiLux, on the other hand, is more about the bar work and clearance improvements. The recovery points are exquisite, as are the rock sliders. It’s a good base to build upon as a touring 4X4, needing only a canopy, some electrics and better rubber before hitting the road. While the Raptor has won the count, both are awesome. For 4X4 touring, the Raptor will work, but the HiLux will do it better. But in every other sense, the Raptor is a better overall 4X4.

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All Comments (21)
  • @oyeba71
    When it comes to comfort during long, bumpy rides, I'd go for the Ford Ranger any day.
  • @scott5831
    Traction control is turned off when rock mode is turned on in the raptor.
  • @ian_lambert-knight
    Grass/Gravel/Snow mode – designed to inspire safe and confident driving on off-road slippery and uneven surfaces Mud/Sand mode – tuning vehicle responses for optimum traction and momentum in deep, deformable surfaces like loose sand and mud Rock mode – specifically for low-speed rocky terrain where smooth controllability is key. Put it in the right mode guys
  • @yoku_ti23
    You guys can say anything about the Hilux... but if both have to go through this kind of road on a regular basis, there's no doubt which one will last much longer. And, if both do need repairs you can bet the Hilux will not be as bad on your pocket.
  • @tonygersbach375
    Nice vid, both are impressive vehicles, would like to see the raptor do the last hill in other modes tho to see the difference.
  • @gprix2
    I have driven both, and I'm not biased,,but, the raptor is the car I'd buy...more grunt from a smaller motor
  • @floydgould4401
    Hilux is obviously better with true walk in the park ability plus when you look at price. Hilux is definitely value for money. No frills and gets the job done
  • @MaZEEZaM
    Great to see the kind of behind the scenes testing 🐨
  • @jereme2008
    Driving a hilux daily it holds gears in LowRange quite well. Especially in down hill. The ride is average and has no balls for overtaking etc. flex is pretty good. Good to see factory rear lockers finally. Only 8 years after Mitsubishi offered it on the Triton.
  • @shapy1188
    Hilux didnt even try hard nice and smooth 👌👌
  • @travisrajnath2486
    can you guys test other pick ups on the market in comparison to these
  • @4WDG
    Good traction control test! Once the magic button DL is pressed the playing fields are even except in this case the Raptor has front EDL which the Lux doesn’t have. Fit recent Tyres and a 50ml lift and the Lux becomes unstoppable.
  • @markcottierkw950
    Very interesting!!! Exactly the type of review we want to see!! Would love to see more comparisons done like this. Great job guys 👍👍
  • @tonesbones502
    Haha, good little vid. I have a '17 hilux with a two inch lift and 33 muddies, massive upgrade in capability to these two stockies.
  • @silknfeathers
    A good overview there. I have the stock Ranger (well, almost stock- lifted and 33's) and have taken it on tracks with a Rugged X. The traction control on the "Yota is significantly better. The problem for the Rugged X comes when you get the next stage harder and need to put the lockers in. The front traction control on the 'Yota turns off and it is behind the Ranger by a long shot. THIS is where cv's are broken. The maintenance of front traction control with the rear locker in is the main reason I chose the Ranger over the Toyota. So far, I haven't regretted the decision but if you don't at least occasionally play hard, the Rugged X is a great vehicle and, as you noted, still quite capable. Whack a front locker in the Rugged X (& better tyres) and you'd be well pleased.
  • @FredY-cg6mi
    Would love to see an LC79 go at it as well :)
  • @Dan-re7go
    It’s a pleasure seeing some reasonable men exploring without playing ARB TJM roulette for their own insecurities. Well done.