Which all-American midsize truck is right for you, the 2024 Ford Ranger or the 2024 Chevy Colorado? Read on for an intensive look at each truck’s engine options, off-road capabilities, and modern features.
Key Takeaways
- When it comes to pure power, the redesigned Ranger takes the lead.
- Thanks to its all-new Raptor trim model, the Ranger is a true off-roading tour de force.
- The Colorado offers a roomy, streamlined cabin, making it our first choice for everyday comfort.
- The redesigned Ranger is available with exclusive tech features, including the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system.
Will the 2024 Ford Ranger Have New Engines?
After a full redesign, the 2024 Ranger rolls out some powerful new engine options, including a speedy turbocharged V6. Compared to the Colorado, the Ranger offers more horsepower overall, whether you choose the base engine or the available upgrade! And then there’s the all-new Ranger Raptor powertrain, which is simply on another level.
The 2024 Ford Ranger powertrain lineup includes:
- XL: 2.3L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- XLT, Lariat: 2.7 EcoBoost V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear- wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Meanwhile, the 2024 Colorado offers two versions of its turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. The base version, known as the Turbo, is standard on the lower trim levels. Higher trim models come standard with the more powerful version, the TurboMax. The TurboMax is also available as an option for lower trim models!
The 2024 Chevy Colorado powertrain options include:
- WT, LT: Turbo (237 hp, 260 lb-ft)
- Trailboss, Z71, ZR2: TurboMax (310 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Does the 2024 Ford Ranger Do Well Offroading?
With its all-new Raptor trim, the Ranger takes a solid lead when it comes to off-roading. The Colorado simply can’t compete with the Raptor’s exclusive, 405-horsepower V6. Not to mention this truck is up for anything, from high-speed off-road racing to easygoing rock crawling! The Raptor’s long list of rugged equipment includes Fox Live Valve shocks, locking front and rear differentials, and a Watts-Link rear suspension.
With three off-road-ready trim models available (the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2), the Colorado can help you spend less on a trail-ready truck. The range-topping ZR2 is pretty handsomely equipped with rugged gear, including front and rear locking differentials, an upgraded suspension, and rocker-panel rails. Just keep in mind that none of these Colorados comes standard with as much power or as many high-performance upgrades as the Raptor!
Is the 2024 Chevy Colorado Comfortable?
Introduced for the 2023 model year, the third-generation Colorado has already developed a solid reputation for comfort. While some trucks can feel a little jittery when they’re not towing or hauling, the Colorado maintains an impressively smooth, comfortable ride. Inside, you can equip your Colorado with a variety of comfort upgrades, such as heated front seats and leather upholstery.
The newly redesigned Ranger offers a similar list of available comfort features! You can create a very luxurious Ranger, thanks to features like leather upholstery, remote ignition, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Ford’s new midsize truck also does a decent job of smoothing out bumps in the road. You’ll also feel comfortable on long highway rides, thanks to the Ranger’s roomy, supportive seats.
What Technology is Seen On the 2024 Ford Ranger?
Each of these midsize trucks comes standard with a cutting-edge infotainment setup, including standard digital gauge clusters, infotainment touchscreens, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. They also help you navigate dangerous highways with safety aids like forward collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control.
But with its exclusive tow-friendly tech features, the Ranger takes the lead. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system is available to help you back a trailer in the right direction (and avoid jackknifing). The Zone Lighting system lights up your choice of exterior areas around your Ranger, which comes in handy when you’re camping off the grid or unloading your truck before dawn.
Is the 2024 Ford Ranger Worth the Money?
The 2024 Chevy Colorado has a lot to offer, but the 2024 Ford Ranger definitely gives you more to love. Choose the Ranger for exclusive tech features, greater power, and increasing off-road capabilities!