Trim Levels for the Ranger and Tacoma

Both the 2021 Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger are versatile trucks. You can further customize each by choosing from an array of trim levels, too. If you want off-roading ability, in-cabin technology, specific styling, or anything else, there’s likely a trim level for you. Comparing against one another, the Tacoma provides access to twice as many trims as the Ranger.

For the Ranger, your choices are the XL, the XLT, and the Lariat. A trio of trims is fine, but it limits your customizability. For the Tacoma, the SR and SR5 are the first two trims, with the rest of the lineup including the:

• TRD Sport
• TRD Off-Road
• Limited
• TRD Pro

Explore the Wilderness

The right type of truck can be a valuable companion as you try to conquer unexplored terrains. Baked into the Toyota Tacoma trim lineup are specific off-roading models, like the TRD Off-Road and the TRD Pro. With the Ranger, you won’t find a specific trim that places such emphasis on all-terrain abilities.

The TRD Off-Road for the Tacoma loads your truck up with additions like Multi-Terrain Select which allows you to choose specific off-road driving modes, Crawl Control which enhances low-speed stability, and a locking rear differential. Choosing the TRD Pro means you’ll be driving off the lot in a Tacoma featuring:

• TRD Pro front skid plate
• 16-inch TRD Pro Black alloy wheels
• Heritage-inspired “TOYOTA” front grille with camera

Want a Manual Transmission?

Finding a truck with a manual transmission may feel like a lost cause. The midsize truck segment just doesn’t offer manuals in the same abundance as previous generations. If you’re dead-set on a manual, though, you can happily turn to the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, which features an available 6-speed manual. The alternative to rowing your own gears is a 6-speed automatic transmission, which is always sharp.

The Ford Rangers follows the rest of the industry’s lead. There isn’t a manual offered. Its 10-speed automatic is the only choice.