I can't tell you which way to go since I've never personally been in a Ranger, but my friends 825i has been fantastic so far.  The new engine is dramatically better than the 23HP engine in the 625i.  The suspension is also far superior to what was on the 625i.

The Gator is definitely wide and heavy though.  It takes a little bit of getting used to taking it down trails, but it's great once you do.

Check out our Youtube channel to see some of the things we've put the 825i through.

http://www.youtube.com/user/GatorVids#p/u