10 Trucks Similar to the Ford Ranger in Australia (2026 Guide)

The Ford Ranger is one of Australia's most popular utes, and it's easy to understand why. With impressive towing capacity, modern technology, capable four-wheel-drive systems and a comfortable cabin, the Ranger has become a favourite among tradies, families and off-road enthusiasts.

But what if we're looking for something different?

Fortunately, there are plenty of trucks similar to the Ford Ranger in Australia, and some offer better value, different engine options, distinctive styling or equipment that might suit our needs more closely.

From the legendary Toyota HiLux to the mechanically related Volkswagen Amarok, Australia's dual-cab ute market offers some seriously competitive alternatives.

In this guide, we'll explore 10 of the best Ford Ranger competitors available in Australia in 2026, compare their capabilities and help determine which ute deserves a place in our driveway.

What Trucks Are Similar to the Ford Ranger in Australia?

The closest alternatives to the Ford Ranger are midsize utes designed for similar purposes: carrying equipment, towing trailers, transporting passengers and tackling challenging Australian terrain.

Here are 10 models worth considering.

Figures are maximum manufacturer-rated braked towing capacities for relevant Australian variants. Actual limits depend on the model, configuration, tow equipment, vehicle loading and gross combination mass.

Although these vehicles compete in the same general market, each delivers a different experience.

Some focus on traditional diesel reliability and straightforward functionality. Others prioritise luxury, innovative powertrains or generous standard equipment.

Let's examine what makes each alternative worth considering.

1. Toyota HiLux: The Traditional Ford Ranger Rival

The Toyota HiLux is arguably the most recognisable Ford Ranger competitor in Australia.

For decades, the HiLux has built a strong reputation among farmers, construction workers, mining operators and drivers who regularly travel through remote regions.

Engine Performance and Towing

The 2026 HiLux range includes a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine that develops up to 150kW and 500Nm in automatic variants.

Many 4x4 configurations provide a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500kg.

That makes the HiLux suitable for towing:

• Large caravans
• Boats and trailers
• Agricultural equipment
• Worksite machinery
• Camping trailers

However, the Ford Ranger's available 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel provides considerably more torque, reaching 600Nm.

This additional torque can make the V6 Ranger particularly appealing when towing substantial loads or travelling through hilly terrain.

Reliability and Ownership

One of the HiLux's greatest attractions is Toyota's established service network and long-standing reputation for producing durable commercial vehicles.

This can be particularly valuable when travelling across regional Australia.

The HiLux also benefits from widespread familiarity among mechanics and a well-developed aftermarket accessories industry.

Why choose the HiLux over the Ranger?

We would shortlist the HiLux when established ownership support, practical durability and remote-area service access matter more than having the most powerful engine or the most luxurious interior.

2. Isuzu D-Max: A Practical and Capable Alternative

The Isuzu D-Max is another direct Ford Ranger competitor and deserves serious consideration.

It has become particularly attractive to Australians who want a hardworking ute without unnecessary complexity.

Engine Options and Capability

The Australian D-Max range offers 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engines.

The 3.0-litre engine produces:

• Power: 140kW
• Torque: 450Nm
• Maximum braked towing: 3,500kg
• Transmission: Six-speed automatic

The 2.2-litre engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Both engines offer their own balance between performance and efficiency.

While the V6 Ranger produces more power and torque, the D-Max remains a competitive option for drivers who prioritise practical diesel performance.

Off-Road Performance

Four-wheel-drive D-Max variants feature equipment designed for rough Australian conditions, including low-range gearing, Rough Terrain Mode and a rear differential lock.

These features can provide additional traction when navigating difficult tracks, muddy surfaces or uneven terrain.

Is the D-Max Better Than the Ford Ranger?

That depends on what we're looking for.

The Ford Ranger generally appeals more strongly to drivers seeking available V6 performance, sophisticated technology and a refined driving experience.

The D-Max makes an excellent alternative for buyers who value a straightforward commercial vehicle with serious off-road and towing credentials.

For tradespeople and caravan owners, it's definitely worth comparing.

3. Mazda BT-50: A Comfortable Truck Similar to the Ranger

The Mazda BT-50 combines commercial vehicle practicality with distinctive styling and a comfortable cabin.

An important detail is that the current BT-50 shares much of its underlying engineering with the Isuzu D-Max rather than the Ford Ranger.

That relationship makes it a particularly interesting option for buyers comparing different brands with similar mechanical foundations.

Performance and Practicality

The Australian BT-50 range offers 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine choices, depending on the configuration.

Its maximum braked towing capacity reaches 3,500kg.

Available configurations include work-focused cab-chassis vehicles and more comfortably equipped dual-cab models.

Interior Comfort

Mazda places considerable emphasis on presentation and usability.

Depending on the specification, the BT-50 offers modern connectivity, driver-assistance equipment, comfortable seating and practical storage compartments.

These qualities matter when the ute serves as our family vehicle during the week and our adventure vehicle on weekends.

Ford Ranger vs Mazda BT-50

The Ranger provides a broader choice of specialised powertrains, including a V6 diesel and a plug-in hybrid.

The Mazda BT-50 instead concentrates on conventional diesel practicality.

We would consider the BT-50 particularly attractive when looking for a capable work ute that also feels comfortable enough for daily driving.

4. Mitsubishi Triton: Strong Value for Australian Buyers

The Mitsubishi Triton has long competed with the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max.

It's particularly appealing to buyers who want genuine four-wheel-drive ability without necessarily choosing the most expensive vehicle in the segment.

Engine and Towing Specifications

The newer-generation Triton uses a 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel engine producing approximately 150kW and 470Nm.

Its maximum braked towing capacity reaches 3,500kg.

The vehicle also features an upgraded platform designed to improve stability, handling and overall capability.

Mitsubishi Super Select 4WD-II

One of the Triton's standout features on selected grades is its Super Select 4WD-II system.

Unlike some conventional part-time four-wheel-drive arrangements, this system allows compatible full-time four-wheel-drive operation on sealed roads.

This can be useful when driving through changing weather conditions or travelling between highways and challenging terrain.

Selected models also provide different off-road driving modes.

Is the Triton Worth Buying Instead of a Ranger?

The Triton deserves attention if our primary concern is getting a capable dual-cab ute for competitive money.

Although the Ranger may offer more premium technology and stronger V6 performance, the Triton delivers a convincing combination of capability, functionality and equipment.

For buyers who use their vehicle for both construction work and weekend camping, it can be a sensible choice.

5. Volkswagen Amarok: The Closest Mechanical Alternative

If we're searching for a truck that drives and performs similarly to the Ford Ranger, the Volkswagen Amarok should be near the top of our list.

There's a straightforward reason: the current Amarok and Ranger share the same underlying vehicle platform.

This makes the Amarok one of the most closely related Ford Ranger alternatives available in Australia.

Shared Platform and Engine Options

The Amarok benefits from engineering shared with the Ranger, including access to a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel producing 600Nm.

Other engine configurations are available, depending on the grade.

Like the Ranger, the Amarok can tow up to 3,500kg when appropriately equipped.

It also offers genuine four-wheel-drive capability and a selection of driving modes.

Interior Design and Refinement

Despite the shared mechanical foundations, Volkswagen has given the Amarok a distinct personality.

The dashboard design, exterior appearance, trim combinations and equipment packages differ from those offered by Ford.

Higher specifications, such as the PanAmericana and Aventura, place additional emphasis on comfort, styling and premium features.

Ford Ranger vs Volkswagen Amarok

We can think of these two utes as close relatives with different personalities.

The Ranger offers a particularly broad range of body styles, engines and specialised off-road models.

The Amarok is more focused on the dual-cab lifestyle and premium ute market.

If we appreciate the Ranger's fundamental engineering but prefer Volkswagen's design, the Amarok is probably the most obvious alternative.

6. Nissan Navara: A Versatile Australian Dual-Cab Ute

The Nissan Navara remains an important competitor in Australia's midsize ute segment.

The fifth-generation Navara arrived in Australian showrooms in March 2026, bringing a substantially revised vehicle with modern technology and locally developed suspension tuning.

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New-Generation Nissan Navara

The latest Australian Navara shares its underlying architecture with the Mitsubishi Triton.

However, Nissan worked with Australian engineering specialist Premcar to develop suspension characteristics suited to local conditions.

Its 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel produces 150kW and 470Nm.

All four launch grades offer a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500kg.

Comfort and Touring

The Navara has been developed to accommodate different lifestyles, from commercial duties to family holidays.

Depending on the variant, available equipment includes advanced four-wheel-drive technology, terrain modes and driver-assistance systems.

For Australians travelling long distances over sealed roads, gravel highways and off-road tracks, the balance between suspension comfort and capability can be an important purchasing consideration.

Navara or Ranger?

The Ranger's available V6 provides stronger torque figures and its lineup offers greater powertrain variety.

The Navara counters with locally tuned suspension, contemporary safety equipment and a straightforward diesel-based lineup.

We would consider it a worthwhile option for buyers seeking a practical touring ute.

7. Kia Tasman: A Newer Competitor With Serious Capability

The Kia Tasman has introduced another interesting choice to Australia's dual-cab ute market.

Its distinctive appearance may divide opinion, but there's more to this vehicle than its unconventional styling.

Engine and Towing

The Tasman uses a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 154kW and 440Nm.

It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The dual-cab range provides up to 3,500kg of braked towing capacity, supported by a maximum rated tow-ball mass of 350kg.

Its practical cargo area is another major attraction.

Designed for Practical Work

Kia has placed considerable emphasis on payload, storage and day-to-day usability.

Depending on the configuration, the Tasman offers useful worksite features and off-road equipment.

The X-Pro grade particularly targets drivers interested in off-road travel.

Kia Tasman vs Ford Ranger

Compared with the Ranger, the Tasman offers a different approach to design, cabin packaging and equipment.

It lacks a direct equivalent to the Ranger's V6 diesel performance, but it remains competitive on maximum towing capacity.

We would recommend test-driving the Tasman if interior space, cargo practicality and equipment are particularly important.

8. GWM Cannon Alpha: A Feature-Rich Alternative

The GWM Cannon Alpha gives Australian buyers another option outside the traditional Japanese, American and European ute brands.

This vehicle is especially interesting because it brings a mixture of diesel, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options to the market.

Available Engine Options

Depending on specification and availability, Australian Cannon Alpha models include 2.4-litre turbo-diesel, 3.0-litre turbo-diesel and plug-in hybrid configurations.

The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel develops 170kW and 620Nm, making it a serious competitor for buyers comparing engine torque.

Relevant models offer up to 3,500kg of braked towing capacity.

Comfort and Technology

The Cannon Alpha places strong emphasis on cabin equipment and convenience.

Depending on the grade, buyers can find large infotainment displays, driver-assistance technologies and premium interior features.

This can make it attractive to buyers who want substantial equipment without necessarily moving into the highest-priced mainstream utes.

Is the Cannon Alpha Better Value Than a Ranger?

It can represent compelling value when comparing similarly equipped vehicles.

However, we should consider more than the initial purchase price.

Dealer accessibility, servicing arrangements, real-world fuel consumption, depreciation and long-term ownership costs all deserve attention.

The Cannon Alpha is worth examining, especially for buyers who are open to newer competitors.

9. BYD Shark 6: A Hybrid Alternative to the Ford Ranger

The BYD Shark 6 is one of the most distinctive Ford Ranger alternatives because it uses plug-in hybrid technology rather than a traditional diesel-only powertrain.

For drivers who want strong acceleration, electric-assisted driving and a comfortable cabin, it offers a different ownership experience.

Hybrid Performance

The Shark 6 range includes different powertrain configurations.

The Premium variant combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors, producing a combined 321kW and 650Nm.

The newer Performance variant uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid setup with higher combined outputs of 350kW and 700Nm.

These figures demonstrate why the Shark 6 attracts attention from drivers interested in performance.

Towing Differences Matter

Not every Shark 6 offers the same towing capacity.

The Premium and Dynamic configurations have a maximum braked towing rating of 2,500kg.

The Performance increases that rating to 3,500kg.

This distinction is essential if we plan to tow a heavy caravan or substantial trailer.

Should We Buy a Hybrid Ute?

A plug-in hybrid can make sense when we regularly drive shorter distances and have convenient access to charging.

However, its efficiency advantages depend on how the vehicle is used.

Long-distance towing, depleted battery charge and sustained heavy loads can significantly influence petrol consumption.

We also need to consider payload and the type of four-wheel-drive system fitted.

If we're comparing the BYD Shark 6 with the Ranger PHEV, the decision should focus on our real driving patterns, towing needs and charging arrangements.

10. LDV Terron 9: A Larger Alternative With Plenty of Equipment

The LDV Terron 9 is another Australian-market ute worth considering.

It has a larger body than many traditional midsize competitors and aims to combine practical utility with a comfortable, well-equipped interior.

Engine and Capability

The Terron 9 uses a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 163kW and 520Nm.

It's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The range offers a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500kg.

Four-wheel drive, terrain settings and towing-related equipment are also available.

Interior and Everyday Driving

One of the Terron 9's attractions is its emphasis on equipment.

Depending on the grade, it offers features such as large digital displays, surround-view cameras and advanced convenience technology.

Its spacious design can be particularly appealing to families who regularly travel with passengers and luggage.

Terron 9 vs Ranger

The LDV provides an interesting alternative for people who want a generously equipped vehicle with substantial physical dimensions.

However, we should assess parking requirements, vehicle weight, servicing access and resale expectations before buying.

It's a vehicle that deserves a hands-on comparison rather than a decision based on specifications alone.

Ford Ranger Alternatives Compared: Which Is Best?

Now that we've examined the main competitors, let's compare them by the type of buyer they may suit.

No single ute wins every category.

The best vehicle is the one whose capabilities match how we actually intend to use it.

Which Ford Ranger Alternative Is Best for Towing in Australia?

Towing is one of the most important considerations when shopping for an Australian dual-cab ute.

Many Ranger competitors advertise a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500kg.

But that figure doesn't automatically mean every vehicle can tow a 3,500kg caravan while carrying a full family, camping equipment and aftermarket accessories.

Understanding Towing Ratings

There are several important measurements we need to consider:

• Braked towing capacity: The maximum rated weight of a trailer fitted with appropriate brakes.
• Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM): The maximum permitted loaded weight of the vehicle.
• Gross Combination Mass (GCM): The maximum permitted combined loaded weight of the towing vehicle and trailer.
• Payload: The weight available for passengers, cargo, accessories and tow-ball download.
• Tow-ball download: The downward force transferred from the trailer to the tow vehicle.

Even when two utes have identical headline towing ratings, their usable payloads and combination mass limits may differ significantly.

Why Payload Matters

Imagine we want to tow a heavy caravan while carrying four passengers, luggage, a bull bar and camping equipment.

The downward force from the trailer adds to the load carried by our vehicle.

That load counts towards vehicle and axle weight limits.

Therefore, a ute with an impressive maximum towing rating might still have limitations when fully equipped for a family holiday.

Before choosing any truck for regular heavy towing, we should compare the exact variant's GVM, GCM, axle ratings and loaded trailer weight.

Which Trucks Similar to the Ford Ranger Are Best Off-Road?

Australia presents a variety of challenging driving environments, from muddy forest tracks to rocky mountain routes and remote desert trails.

A capable off-road ute needs more than engine power.

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Important Off-Road Features

We should examine:

• Four-wheel-drive system and low-range gearing
• Ground clearance
• Approach and departure angles
• Rear or front differential locks
• Suspension travel
• Tyre specifications
• Underbody protection
• Water-wading capability

The Triton, D-Max, HiLux, Navara and Amarok all offer configurations designed for serious four-wheel-drive use.

Meanwhile, models such as the Kia Tasman X-Pro target buyers who want additional off-road capability.

The Ranger itself remains a strong benchmark, particularly in specialised versions such as the Tremor and Raptor.

Is the Ford Ranger Raptor in a Different Category?

In several respects, yes.

The Ranger Raptor is a specialised high-performance off-road ute.

It uses a powerful twin-turbocharged petrol V6, performance-focused suspension and equipment intended for demanding off-road driving.

Most conventional dual-cab utes prioritise payload, towing and general versatility instead.

Consequently, a standard Triton or D-Max may compete directly with a Ranger XLT or Wildtrak, but that doesn't make it an equivalent to the Raptor.

For buyers seeking serious off-road performance, vehicle setup is often more important than brand alone.

Which Ford Ranger Alternatives Are Most Fuel Efficient?

Fuel economy matters enormously when we travel long distances across Australia.

A seemingly small difference in consumption can become significant over thousands of kilometres.

Diesel Utes vs Hybrid Utes

Traditional diesel utes remain popular because of their suitability for long-distance touring and their practical refuelling characteristics.

The Toyota HiLux, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50 and Mitsubishi Triton offer conventional turbo-diesel options.

The Ford Ranger also continues to offer turbo-diesel engines.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid competitors introduce different possibilities.

For example, the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV may appeal to drivers who can charge regularly and use electric assistance for everyday journeys.

However, we should avoid comparing laboratory fuel economy figures without considering the test method.

Real-World Consumption

Actual fuel consumption changes with:

• Vehicle load and accessories
• Driving speed
• Engine choice
• Tyre type
• Road gradients
• Off-road conditions
• Trailer weight
• Air-conditioning use
• Battery charge on plug-in hybrids

A diesel ute driven gently on an open highway may produce very different results from the same vehicle towing a large caravan into a headwind.

Likewise, a plug-in hybrid can deliver substantially different consumption figures when travelling with a charged battery compared with sustained long-distance driving.

We should therefore prioritise realistic driving conditions over headline economy figures.

Are There Cheaper Trucks Similar to the Ford Ranger?

Yes. Australia's ute market includes several alternatives designed to appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Alongside the Mitsubishi Triton and selected GWM Cannon Alpha variants, we can also consider smaller-budget offerings such as the regular GWM Cannon, JAC T9 and certain LDV models.

These may provide useful equipment and commercial capability at competitive purchase prices.

Is a Cheaper Ute Always Better Value?

Not necessarily.

The initial purchase price is only one part of total ownership costs.

We should also account for:

• Insurance premiums
• Scheduled servicing
• Replacement tyres
• Fuel or electricity
• Registration
• Finance interest
• Warranty conditions
• Repairs outside warranty
• Expected resale value

A cheaper purchase can be a sensible decision, especially when the ute will be kept for many years.

However, we should compare projected ownership costs before deciding that the least expensive vehicle is automatically the best deal.

Which Utes Have the Best Resale Potential?

Resale value is another consideration, especially for buyers who replace their vehicles regularly.

Historically, established models such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger have attracted considerable demand in Australia's used-vehicle market.

The Isuzu D-Max also benefits from an established reputation among commercial and recreational buyers.

However, future resale value cannot be guaranteed.

Demand can change with fuel prices, model updates, economic conditions and buyer preferences.

How to Protect Our Ute's Resale Value

Regardless of the brand, we can improve our chances of obtaining a competitive resale price by maintaining the vehicle properly.

Important habits include keeping a documented service history, using suitable replacement parts, repairing damage, avoiding unnecessary modifications and maintaining the interior.

High mileage, heavy commercial use and poor maintenance can all reduce a vehicle's appeal to second-hand buyers.

How to Choose the Right Ford Ranger Alternative

Before buying, we should identify exactly what we need the ute to do.

A vehicle that works perfectly for a construction contractor may not be the best choice for a family that spends most of its time in suburban traffic.

For Work and Construction

If our ute is primarily a work vehicle, payload and practicality become essential.

We should consider cab-chassis configurations, storage solutions, tray dimensions, load security and access to servicing.

The HiLux, D-Max, BT-50 and Triton all deserve attention.

For Families

Family buyers need to consider rear-seat comfort, child-restraint compatibility, ease of access, cabin storage and safety equipment.

The Amarok, Kia Tasman, Mazda BT-50 and Terron 9 may be worth test-driving.

We should also check whether the vehicle fits comfortably in our garage or regular parking space.

For Caravan Touring

When towing a caravan, engine performance is only part of the equation.

We need to calculate realistic loaded vehicle and trailer weights.

The Ranger V6, Amarok V6, D-Max and HiLux all deserve consideration, but choosing the correct configuration is essential.

For Weekend Adventures

Off-road enthusiasts should examine tyres, suspension, underbody protection and differential locks before comparing luxury equipment.

A well-equipped conventional 4x4 ute may be more practical than a premium model wearing road-oriented tyres.

For City Driving

If our daily driving mostly involves short journeys, parking areas and congested roads, a ute's length, turning circle and visibility become important.

We should think carefully about whether we truly need a large dual-cab pickup or whether a smaller vehicle would be easier to live with.

Are Full-Size American Trucks Similar to the Ford Ranger?

Some Australians also compare the Ford Ranger with American pickups such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado and RAM 1500.

These vehicles serve overlapping purposes, particularly towing and recreational travel.

However, they're generally larger than the Ranger.

Full-size pickups can offer additional cabin space, different engine characteristics and higher towing ratings in certain configurations.

The disadvantages may include greater purchase costs, challenging parking dimensions, higher operating expenses and increased vehicle weight.

For most buyers seeking a direct Ranger replacement, midsize dual-cab utes are the more logical starting point.

Ford Ranger vs Similar Trucks: Which Would We Choose?

Our shortlist would depend heavily on the intended use.

If we wanted the closest mechanical alternative, we'd start with the Volkswagen Amarok.

If we prioritised established commercial-vehicle credentials and service access, the Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max would be near the top.

For buyers seeking competitive equipment and pricing, we'd pay close attention to the Mitsubishi Triton and GWM Cannon Alpha.

The Mazda BT-50 and Nissan Navara offer appealing combinations of diesel performance and practicality.

Meanwhile, the BYD Shark 6 deserves attention if plug-in hybrid technology is part of our buying priorities.

The Kia Tasman and LDV Terron 9 provide additional choices, particularly for buyers interested in cabin practicality and modern equipment.

Ultimately, the Ford Ranger remains a highly competitive ute, but it's far from the only strong option in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ford Ranger Alternatives in Australia

1. What truck is most similar to the Ford Ranger in Australia?

The Volkswagen Amarok is arguably the most similar because it shares its underlying platform with the current Ford Ranger. Both offer V6 turbo-diesel configurations, modern technology, four-wheel-drive capability and maximum braked towing ratings of up to 3,500kg.

2. What is the best alternative to a Ford Ranger?

The Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max are two of the strongest traditional alternatives. The HiLux appeals to buyers seeking established service support and workhorse capability, while the D-Max offers practical diesel performance and genuine off-road equipment. The best option depends on our priorities and budget.

3. Which ute is cheaper than a Ford Ranger in Australia?

Depending on the model and specification, alternatives such as the Mitsubishi Triton, GWM Cannon, JAC T9 and certain LDV models can cost less than comparable Ford Ranger variants. We should compare actual drive-away prices and equipment rather than relying solely on advertised starting prices.

4. Which Ford Ranger alternative is best for towing a caravan?

The Isuzu D-Max, Toyota HiLux, Volkswagen Amarok and Mitsubishi Triton are all worth considering. Many variants offer a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500kg. However, the correct choice depends on caravan weight, tow-ball download, payload, GVM, GCM and the vehicle's exact specifications.

5. Are Chinese utes good alternatives to the Ford Ranger?

Chinese-brand utes such as the GWM Cannon Alpha, BYD Shark 6 and LDV Terron 9 offer competitive equipment and interesting powertrain choices. However, buyers should assess servicing, dealer coverage, long-term reliability evidence, warranty conditions and resale expectations before making a decision.

Final Thoughts: Are Ford Ranger Alternatives Worth Considering?

Australia has an impressive selection of trucks similar to the Ford Ranger, and competition in the dual-cab ute segment continues to give buyers more options.

The Toyota HiLux remains an established workhorse, the Isuzu D-Max focuses on practical diesel capability, and the Volkswagen Amarok provides the closest mechanical alternative to the Ranger.

Meanwhile, the Mitsubishi Triton, Mazda BT-50 and Nissan Navara offer competitive combinations of comfort, capability and versatility.

Newer competitors such as the Kia Tasman, GWM Cannon Alpha, BYD Shark 6 and LDV Terron 9 make the comparison even more interesting.

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Our recommendation is to compare at least three utes in the same price and equipment category before buying. We should inspect their cabins, test-drive them on familiar roads and verify their towing and payload limits for our intended use.

The Ford Ranger may be one of Australia's favourite utes, but the best vehicle for us could easily be one of its competitors.