Wanted to give a quick overview of what Ford has changed with the Ranger Raptor. Aside from the new powertrain, the body and suspension has also got several changes. The Raptor offers 283 mm (11.1 inches) of ground clearance, 56 mm (2.2 in) more than the stock model. Add to that the 32.5-degree approach angle and 24-degree ramp-over and departure angles and you start to get an idea of its off road capability. There are also new bash plates made from 23mm thick high strength steel, and a reinforced chassis/frame. Compared to the standard Ranger, the Raptor also sits 150mm (5.9in) wider, and the performance suspension increases front travel by 32% and rear travel by 18%.

Two of my concerns are the approach angle and departure angle. Used to go off roading and always had my old 4Runner run into issues. Rather not have that happen this time.

The 4runner is not a purpose built premium off roader like the Ranger Raptor is. The new TRD Pro variant is looking a lot more promising however, as its also finally received an upgraded Fox suspension.

The angles are roughly the same on the new TRD 4runner. But their new performance lineup is getting really pricey.

I agree. Now that the Tundra TRD is only $900 less than the F150 Raptor, I think that might be a little harder for consumers to justify. Although Toyota vehicles are well known to be extremely reliable, we haven't seen any serious issues/recalls on Fords performance pickup either.

seen a Tacoma TRD Pro in person for myself and I was surprised to see they still use drum brakes in the rear.

The 3.5-liter V6 Toyota is using in the Tacoma is not a good truck engine and the way they set up the transmission annoys a lot of people because it likes to shift a lot. Toyota tried too hard to maximize gas mileage without incorporating the types of technological advances Ford is putting into their vehicles. Basically, it seems like Toyota is cashing in on the older Tacoma's well-earned reputation. They've had a bunch of other issues with drive-line vibrations and other quality control issues too when it comes to their newer Tacoma.

Bottom line...if you're debating between a Tacoma or a Ranger, hold out for the Ranger.

Toyota has always been a little slow at properly updating their vehicles with each new generation. I agree that they've been very fortunate to get such a stellar reputation with regards to reliability, because neither their tech or styling is really that impressive.

I think it speaks to what consumers really want and that would be dependable vehicles they already have trust in. Toyota, Honda and Nissan (to a smaller extent) are some great examples.

Ford has always made fairly reliable trucks, its just their cars that seem to have had a fair amount of issues. I know they did recently put out a huge recall for older F150's, but that was for a seatbelt issue.