Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III pricing versus Ford Ranger Wildtrak X
In the battle of the best offroad-ready double, it doesn't get any closer than this. These two brands have been going at it tooth and nail for years to ultimately claim the title of South Africa's most beloved double cab.
Hilix GR-S vs Ranger Wildtrak X
For decades, two brands feuding over the King of the double cab mantle have put forward their versions of the ultimate weekend warrior. Ford has the Wildtrak X, and now Toyota has the GR-Sport III. Both vehicles have extra fitment and a sportier, chunky appearance that will appeal to the " my bakkie is bigger than yours" crowd
Related: Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III vs Ford Ranger Wildtrak X vs Isuzu D-Max AT35: Here's our winner!
We tested these two beasts in a spec war and found that they are rather equally matched, but as we well know, some vehicles are more equal than others.
Ford Wildtrak X (2023) First Drive Review
Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III
Price - R 999 000
Powertrain
The Hilux GR-S is equipped with the 2.8 GD6 diesel engine that churns out 165kW and 550Nm through a 6-speed auto transmission
Toyota claims that you can achieve a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 8.7 L/100 km in the Hilux in this configuration, which equates to a range of 920 km from the 80-litre fuel tank.
Standard Equipment
The GR-S is generously specified with combination leather and Alcantara seats trimmed with red stitching. Red accents adorn the cabin and red seatbelts, stitching, and door inserts. An embellished GR-S mesh grille, front bumper, and flared wheel arches with black cladding. Other GR-specific accoutrements include a practical sidestep, silver-coloured bash plate, GR Sports bar, black rear bumper, and a smattering of GR logos where they matter. The cherry on top is a dynamic GR-S-inspired side decal on the lower flanks.
Safety
- Pre-Crash System (PCS): Mitigates potential collisions by detecting proximity and warning the driver of oncoming vehicles or pedestrians.
- Lane-Keeping Assistance: Helps keep the vehicle in its lane.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spot.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Active Traction Control (A-TRC): Enables stability when driving off-road or in slippery conditions.
The safety equipment also includes:
- 7 airbags (driver, front passenger, curtain, driver-knee, and front side)
- Front/rear parking sensors
- Stability control
- ISOFix
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Auto Emergency Braking
Practicality
It's a double cab, so the bin has plenty of load space. The rear legroom is a bit compromised for those with longer legs. The total load is 790kg, with a 750kg unbraked limit capped at 3 500kg for a braked trailer.
Price and Value
The Hilux GR Sport is a singular model comparatively priced at R999 000. It comes with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan as standard.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak X 4WD
Price - R 1 070 900
Powertrain
Ford's 2.0 BiTurbo diesel engine powers the Ranger Wildtrak X mated to a 10-speed auto transmission. It produces 154kW and 500Nm
Ford claims that you can achieve a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 7.5 L/100 km with this configuration, which equates to a range of 1067 km from the 80-litre fuel tank.
Standard Equipment
The Wildtrak X is 24 mm higher off the ground than a standard Wildtrak; it is fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels and General Grabber AT3 tyres and sits higher due to the Bilstein suspension featuring nitrogen-charged external reservoirs for hardcore offroading.
Safety
The Ford is packed with safety features such as:
- Airbags: Dual front, front side, and curtain airbags are standard, with a driver knee airbag also available.
- Seatbelts: Three-point lap-sash seatbelts are provided for all positions.
- Post-Collision Braking: This system helps to reduce the risk of further damage in a collision.
- Power Door Dead Locks: Enhance security.
- Smart Keyless Entry with Push Button Start: Provides convenience and security.
- Immobilizer: Helps prevent theft.
- Alarm System: Includes perimeter, interior motion, and vehicle inclination sensors.
Practicality
The Ford Ranger is a double cab and, much like the Hilux, is designed for carrying loads. The rear legroom in the cabin is spacious but still a tad cramped for larger individuals. Load carrying capacity is 960kg with a 750kg limit for unbraked trailers and 3500kg for braked trailers.
Price and Value
The Ford Ranger Wildtrak X is marginally more expensive than the Hilux, at R 1 070 500. It comes with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty and a 6-service/90 000 km service plan as standard, which can be unbundled from the purchase price.
