Are you looking for a reliable and durable pickup truck? While the decision to buy one is easy, choosing the right pickup that suits your unique needs can be overwhelming.
We’ll compare the newest 2024 Ford Ranger and 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, the leading mid-size pickup trucks in America. Both vehicles offer power, versatility, and safety. But which one comes out on top?
Power and Performance
When it comes to performance and handling, the Ford Ranger stands out. It offers three engine options, starting with the standard 2.3-liter engine that delivers an impressive 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For even more power, the XLT and LARIAT trims offer the new 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which produces 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. And if that’s not enough, the Ranger Raptor trim takes it to the next level with the exclusive 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, boasting a staggering 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. All trim levels come equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a seamless driving experience.
In comparison, the Colorado’s base 2.7-liter Turbo engine generates 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The ZR2 trim offers the High Output engine option, providing a maximum of 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of the trim, all models come equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
While the Colorado’s High Output engine is impressive, it still falls short compared to the Ranger’s top-of-the-line powertrain options.
Fuel Efficiency
With an impressive fuel efficiency rating of 26 mpg on the highway, the Ford Ranger outshines its competitor, the Chevy Colorado, which has a maximum rating of only 25 mpg. While the difference may appear insignificant at first glance, it holds the potential to save you a substantial sum of money on gas in the long haul.
Towing Capacity and Payload
In terms of towing capacity, there is not a significant difference between the 2024 Ford Ranger and the 2023 Chevy Colorado. The Ranger can tow a maximum of 7,500 pounds, while the Chevy Colorado can tow a maximum of 7,700 pounds. Both trucks require an additional towing package to achieve their maximum towing capacities.
However, when it comes to payload capacity, the Ford Ranger stands out with an impressive maximum payload of 1,805 pounds, surpassing the Colorado’s limit of 1,684 pounds. This difference in carrying capacity can have a significant impact on individuals who frequently haul heavy loads.
Truck Bed Size
Comparing the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado, the Ranger has a slight advantage in this aspect, though the difference is not significant.
The Ranger’s truck bed measures 62.5 inches with a cargo capacity of 43.5 cubic feet, while the Colorado’s truck bed measures 61.7 inches and offers a cargo capacity of 41.9 cubic feet.
Technology Features
Both the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado provide a wide range of advanced technologies and features. These include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a comprehensive set of safety features, wireless charging pads, and an intuitive infotainment system.
Additionally, both vehicles offer convenient smartphone apps for remote vehicle access. The Ford Ranger utilizes the FordPass Connect App, while the Colorado utilizes the myChevrolet Mobile App.
MSRP Pricing
When it comes to pricing, both the Ford Ranger and the Chevy Colorado offer a range of models at different price points, depending on the features and specifications. The base model Ford Ranger starts at around $32,565, while the Chevy Colorado’s base model starts at around $30,695. However, once you start adding optional features and packages, the prices of both trucks can quickly increase.
It’s important to note that while the Colorado may have a lower starting price, the Ford Ranger tends to offer more standard features, which may result in a higher value proposition.
Safety Ratings
Both the Ranger and Colorado boast impressive safety features, including automatic emergency braking, a rearview camera, and auto high-beam headlights. The 2023 models of the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado have also received impressive safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with a 4-star rating in the frontal crash test and an exceptional 5-star rating in the side crash test.
These results highlight their commitment to providing excellent safety features and protection for both drivers and passengers.
Final Thoughts
Both the Ford Ranger and the Chevy Colorado are excellent choices in the midsize truck market. While the Colorado boasts a lower starting price and a competitive towing capacity, the Ranger surpasses the competition in performance, payload capacity, truck bed size, and fuel efficiency.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an all-around truck that is powerful and equipped with the latest technology and safety features, the Ford Ranger is the superior option.
Head over to Parkway Ford of Lexington today and test drive the new Ford Ranger. You’ll also find the latest Ford trucks at our esteemed Lexington Ford dealership in North Carolina. Visit us today!

