Which has more of what it takes to tackle your adventures, the 2024 Ford Ranger or 2024 GMC Canyon? Our comparison guide walks you through each midsize truck’s power, capabilities, and available features! Read on to discover which pickup has the features you want.
Key Takeaways
- The redesigned Ranger introduces a new engine lineup, making it the more powerful option!
- Thanks to the all-new Ranger Raptor trim model, Ford’s midsize truck delivers major off-road advantages.
- Properly equipped, the GMC Canyon can tow the heaviest trailer.
- The Ranger’s all-new tech lineup makes it the best-in-class option for everyday convenience!
Thanks to its incredible new engine lineup, the Ranger is the midsize truck with the gutsiest performance. You’ll find last year’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine on the base XL trim model, but the mid-level XLT and high-end Lariat now come standard with a 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 that enhances both power and fuel economy.
Then there’s the Ranger Raptor’s exclusive powertrain, which maximizes speed with 405 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque! The Raptor also comes standard with four-wheel drive, which is optional for other Ranger trim models.
The 2024 Ford Ranger is available with three engine options:
- 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (270 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.7L turbo V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor-only 3.0L turbo V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
The 2024 Canyon is only available with one engine, but it’s very impressive in its own right. While it won’t supply as much power as a Ranger Raptor, the Canyon’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine is nearly as powerful as the Ranger’s V6. In the Canyon lineup, more trim models (the AT4, AT4X, and Denali) come standard with four-wheel drive.
The 2024 GMC Canyon is only available with one engine and transmission combination:
- Turbo 2.7L four-cylinder engine (310 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Best Off-Road Truck: 2024 Ford Ranger
With the introduction of the Ranger Raptor trim model, Ford’s midsize truck delivers a truly incredible off-road experience. Not only does the Raptor feature a high-powered engine, but it also helps you explore insanely rugged terrain with its 33-inch BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tires, Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass live valve shocks, and Watts link rear suspension. Front and rear locking differentials help you climb boulders. And drive modes, like Rock Crawl and Baja, adapt suspension settings to suit your current surroundings!
The 2024 GMC Canyon offers three off-road-ready trim models: the AT4, AT4X, and all-new AT4X AEV. None is as powerful as the Ranger Raptor, but the top-of-the-line AT4X AEV is very handsomely equipped with trail-friendly gear. Features include locking front and rear differentials, off-road-tuned suspension with Multimatic DSSV dampers, and AEV steel bumpers.
Max Towing: 2024 GMC Canyon
There’s one aspect of performance where the Canyon has the edge, and that’s towing! Properly equipped, GMC’s midsize truck can tow a trailer weighing up to 7,700 pounds. However, the Canyon doesn’t have too big a lead here. And that’s because a properly equipped Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds. In the end, each of these midsize trucks can tow a family-friendly boat or camper.
Modern Features: 2024 Ford Ranger
After a full redesign, the Ford Ranger offers the best-in-class tech lineup. Every trim model now includes the SYNC 4 infotainment system, a 10.1-inch (or available 12-inch) central touchscreen, and a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
But the Ranger also offers features that were previously only available on the bigger F-150, such as the Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Active Park Assist 2.0 systems! Newly available driver safety aids include evasive steering assist, traffic sign recognition, post-collision braking, and adaptive cruise control.
The GMC Canyon also gets major credit for its standard lineup, which includes an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, a 11.3-inch central touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. GMC’s midsize truck is also available with upgrades like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. However, the Canyon doesn’t offer technology that will help you back a trailer in a specific direction!
While the 2024 GMC Canyon delivers a strong performance, the newly redesigned 2024 Ford Ranger is the most cutting-edge option. Plus, the Ranger offers maximum off-roading capabilities and your choice of three powerful engine options!