The 2020 Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado are two midsize trucks with power, performance, and modern style in common. So how do you choose just one? Our comparison guide breaks down both models, helping you choose the best truck for your daily drive.
Max Comfort: 2020 Ford Ranger
With its spacious cabin options and savvy tech features, it’s tough to pass up Ford’s midsize truck. Choose between two cabin options: the roomy extended SuperCab and the even roomier SuperCrew.
We’re also big fans of the Ranger’s standard tech lineup, which includes a Wi-Fi hotspot and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, standard on the midgrade XLT and up, is an especially big deal. You’ll fall in love with its quick-acting 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration features.
When it comes to modern comfort, the Colorado is a close second place. Like the Ranger, it offers two cabin sizes and puts an emphasis on tech features, including a standard Wi-Fi hotspot.
However, when it comes to seating comfort, the Ranger has the Colorado beat. The Ranger’s front seats are nicely shaped and padded, which means lasting comfort on long trips. The Colorado’s front seats are on the firmer side, and its rear bench seat is even harder.
Off-Road Fun: 2020 Ford Ranger
The Ranger will take you as far into off-road territory as you care to travel. With optional four-wheel drive and two different off-road packages, it’s easy to move away from the pavement and into your next adventure.
This year, in addition to the usual FX4 Off-Road package, the Ranger is rolling out an FX2 Off-Road package for rear-wheel-drive models. Whether you prefer two- or four-wheel drive, this Ford truck is ready and able to explore new territory.
Of course, when it comes to rolling through the elements, the Chevrolet Colorado is also plenty capable. This pickup might not offer an off-road package for two-wheel drive versions of the truck, but it does offer traction-boosting four-wheel drive and a special off-road trim model, the Colorado Z71.
Towing Performance: 2020 Ford Ranger
If you’ve got a big trailer that needs moving, the Ranger is the midsize truck for the job. Properly equipped, it tows up to 7,500 pounds. That’s some serious muscle – and the Ranger does it without making you pay extra for an engine upgrade.
The V6-powered Colorado tows max loads of 7,000 pounds. If you choose the turbodiesel engine, however, that number goes up to 7,700 pounds. This more than the Ranger can manage, but you do have to pay extra for an engine upgrade.
Thriftiest Ride: It’s a Tie!
Both the 2020 Ford Ranger and the Chevrolet Colorado earn up to 23 mpg combined. You should note, however, that you need pay extra for the Colorado’s optional turbo diesel engine to achieve these figures. Every Ranger comes with the same engine, so its best EPA ratings come standard.
The 2020 Ford Ranger is our first choice by far. Compared to the 2020 Chevy Colorado, the Ranger tows more, takes you further off-road, and treats you to a sublimely modern cabin.