Which midsize truck is best suited to your lifestyle, the 2023 Ford Ranger or the Chevy Colorado? Our comparison guide is here to help you decide.
Key Takeaways
- Shop the Ranger for the lowest price tag.
- Both midsize trucks deliver coveted tech and comfort features, including smartphone connectivity and leather seating.
- The Colorado offers both maximum horsepower and a slightly higher towing capacity.
- With its rugged performance packages, the Ranger is the more versatile off-roader.
Price: 2023 Ford Ranger
Although these all-American midsize trucks are highly competitive, the 2023 Ranger is actually the slightly better deal. Its entry-level trim model starts at $27,400. The 2023 Colorado has an MSRP of $29,200. Either truck can cost more than its starting price, however, depending on which trim level and equipment you select.
Comfort & Tech Features: It’s a Tie!
In addition to their generous standard lineups, both midsize trucks treat you to their own respective lists of optional upgrades. Each truck comes standard with modern creature comforts, including roomy cloth seating, air conditioning, and power windows and door locks.
Available features include modern touchscreen infotainment. And both trucks offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. If you’re looking for a little more luxury, either truck can deliver, thanks to available features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and remote ignition.
Maximum Horsepower: 2023 Chevy Colorado
Not only can the Colorado potentially deliver more power, it can also provide greater towing capabilities. With the diesel engine and proper equipment, these Chevy trucks can tow up to 7,700 pounds. The Colorado is also known for its easy going handling and steady brake performance.
Colorado powertrain specs include:
- 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine (200 horsepower, 191 lb-ft of torque) and six-speed automatic transmission
- 3.6L V6 (308 hp, 275 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic
- 2.8L four-cylinder diesel engine (181 hp, 369 lb-ft) and six-speed automatic
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Every Ranger comes with the same turbocharged engine, but it’s known for its gutsy power. Hit the throttle in Sport mode, and you’ll be very impressed with this truck’s pickup! Just like the Colorado, the Ranger offers optional four-wheel drive to improve off-road performance. And it’s almost equal in the towing department, with a maximum tow rating of 7,500 pounds.
Ranger powertrain specs include:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (270 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Off-Roading Options: 2023 Ford Ranger
All three Ranger trim models are available with off-road-ready packages. The FX2 (for rear-wheel-drive Rangers) and FX4 (for four-wheel-drive Rangers) add all-terrain tires and off-road-tuned suspension to any trim model. Then there’s the Tremor off-road package. Available for the XLT and Lariat trim models, the Tremor transforms the Ranger into an off-road beast, with bigger all-terrain tires, a revised suspension for extra ground clearance, Fox shocks, and more.
The 2023 Chevy Colorado is widely available with four-wheel drive. However, instead of widely available off-roading packages, it delivers its rugged gear in its top trim models, the Z71 and ZR2. Both trucks deliver all-terrain tires and off-road-tuned suspension. The ZR2 is extra-rugged, thanks to its raised suspension and electronically locking rear differential, among other upgrades. However, these upscale trim models might cost more than you want to pay for a trail-ready truck.
Which Midsize Truck Is Best?
The 2023 Chevy Colorado is an excellent option, especially when you consider its impressive powertrain options. However, we prefer the 2023 Ford Ranger, which is a better all-around truck. Take this Ford pickup home for its sporty powertrain, comfy cabin, and available off-road features.