When you’re shopping for an all-American midsize truck, both the 2021 Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado are likely to pop up on your radar. Which one should you choose? The two have so much in common that you need to do a little research before you can make the right decision.
Friendliest Price: 2021 Ford Ranger
Both models have similar starting MSRPs, though the Ranger ($24,820) is slightly more affordable than the Colorado ($25,200). However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious midsize truck, you can save thousands by choosing the Ranger. The higher end of its MSRP range ($36,610) is much less than that of the Colorado ($41,600).
Rugged Gear: 2021 Ford Ranger
Ready to roll into the wilderness? So is the Ford Ranger, which offers three different off-road packages. The Tremor Off-Road package will help you travel the furthest into rugged terrain. It includes off-road-ready Fox shocks, a revised suspension with extra ground clearance, and 32-inch all-terrain tires. If you’re not feeling quite that adventurous, you can add the FX4 package to your four-wheel-drive Ranger. For those who prefer a two-wheel-drive setup, the FX2 package will increase off-road capabilities.
Instead of packages that you can add to any trim model, the Colorado offers two rugged trim models, the Z71 and ZR2. Both are plenty capable, with features like all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance to help you roam further off-road. In the Colorado hierarchy, however, these trim models are on the pricier side, and you may end up spending more than you’d like to leave the pavement.
Tech-Savvy Ride: 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
The Colorado earns a win here, thanks to its impressive standard lineup. The Colorado comes with everything you need for optimal connectivity, including an infotainment system with a 7-inch touch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is also standard, displaying your maps, music, and phone apps directly on the aforementioned touch screen.
With the 2021 Ford Ranger, you can get a similar setup with the Sync 3 infotainment system and its 8-inch touch screen. However, you do have to pay extra to get it, adding the 101A package to the base XL model or upgrading to the mid grade XLT or top-trim Lariat.
Modern Comfort: It’s a Draw
When it comes to comfy cruising, we like what both midsize trucks have to offer. Both let you choose between extended and crew cabins. And, no matter which cabin you prefer, you’ll enjoy spacious seats with generous padding. These trucks also offer an attractive range of upscale options, such as leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheels, and heated seats.
Final Tally
The 2021 Chevy Colorado is a likable midsize truck, but the 2021 Ford Ranger ultimately has more to offer. That’s especially true if you’re after an affordable price on an upscale model or an impressive range of off-road packages. We’re also big fans of the Ranger’s roomy cabin and Sync 3 infotainment system.