Introduction
Midsize trucks have seen significant improvements and redesigns in recent years, with the 2024 Ford Ranger and 2024 Chevrolet Colorado being two of the best options on the market. In this comparison article, we will explore various aspects of these trucks, including their power, fuel economy, towing capacity, interior quality, infotainment technology, cargo capacity, safety features, driving experience, redesign history, standout versions, and overall value.
Which is more powerful?
Winner: Ford
The Ford Ranger comes out on top in terms of power. Its standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Colorado’s Work Truck and LT trims are equipped with a 2.7-liter turbo-four engine that delivers 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Although the Colorado offers a “high-output” version of the 2.7-liter engine with 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, the Ranger Raptor takes the lead with its 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine generating an impressive 405 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque.
Which gets better fuel economy?
Winner: Ford
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Ford Ranger outperforms the Chevrolet Colorado. The Ranger’s standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine achieves a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg, regardless of whether it is equipped with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Opting for the 2.7-liter turbo V6 engine lowers the fuel economy to 20 mpg combined. On the other hand, the Colorado’s standard 2.7-liter turbo-four engine manages 21 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive and 20 mpg combined with four-wheel drive. The high-output engine upgrade reduces the Colorado’s fuel economy to 19 mpg combined (four-wheel drive only) or 16 mpg with the ZR2 model. Even the Ranger Raptor achieves 17 mpg, giving Ford an advantage in terms of fuel efficiency.
Which tows more?
Winner: Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado takes the lead in towing capacity, with a maximum rating of 7,700 pounds regardless of engine and drivetrain. The Ford Ranger falls slightly behind with a max tow rating of 7,500 pounds. Although the difference may seem small, it could be significant for those who require maximum towing capabilities.
Which has a nicer interior?
Winner: Ranger
In terms of design, the Chevrolet Colorado may have a more attractive interior, especially in upper trims that feature padded simulated leather and contrasting stitching. However, the Ford Ranger offers more consistent materials quality throughout its trim level lineup. The difference between hard plastics in the Colorado LT and the higher-end trappings in the Z71 is more noticeable. Additionally, those looking for a luxurious truck interior may want to consider the GMC Canyon Denali, a sibling of the Colorado.
Which has better infotainment technology?
Winner: Tie
Both the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado feature impressive touchscreen infotainment systems. The Colorado boasts an 11.3-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen with user-friendly interface and Google Built-in software. It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On the other hand, the Ranger offers two touchscreen size options (10 and 12 inches), both of which are portrait-oriented. The Ranger’s infotainment system includes the newly developed square-orientation Apple CarPlay and an additional native Ford menu screen. Overall, both systems are excellent, and the choice between them will depend on personal preference.
Which has the bigger back seat?
Winner: Tie
Both the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado are now only offered with crew cab body styles, providing similar legroom measurements (34.6 inches for the Ranger and 34.7 inches for the Colorado). Although the Ranger offers 1.5 inches more rear headroom, there isn’t a significant difference in practical terms. Both trucks can comfortably accommodate passengers in the back seat.
Which has more cargo capacity and functionality?
Winner: Chevrolet
While both trucks offer similar rear seat space, the Chevrolet Colorado provides more versatility in terms of cargo capacity and functionality. The Colorado’s split 60/40 seat bottom allows for easier cargo transportation while maintaining a seat open. In contrast, the Ranger has a one-piece seat bottom that flips up or a one-piece seatback that folds down to create cargo space on top. Therefore, choosing between the two may depend on whether you prioritize carrying passengers or cargo. Additionally, the Colorado’s bed is slightly longer at 5 feet and 1 inch, featuring a clever tailgate design with a storage compartment and support cord. The Ranger has side steps between the bumper and wheel but offers a slightly smaller bed length.
Which is safer?
Winner: Inconclusive
Both the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado come with a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, auto high-beams, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot warning is included on all Ford Rangers except the base XL trim, while it is part of the Colorado’s optional Safety package along with blind-zone steering assist and rear cross-traffic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control is available as an option on both trucks. However, as neither truck has been crash tested by a third party, it is inconclusive to determine which is safer without crash test ratings.
Which is better to drive?
Winner: Ford
While direct back-to-back drives have not been conducted, we can assess the driving experience based on previous tests. The Ford Ranger offers a more refined driving experience compared to the Chevrolet Colorado. Despite the usual body-on-frame characteristics over bumps, the Ranger’s damping is well-tuned, effectively absorbing larger bumps while controlling rebound. It exhibits a sense of sophistication in its ride quality. The Ranger’s chassis response and body motions on winding mountain roads are also impressive for a midsize truck. However, the steering can be lacking in feedback and feels numb, which is a disappointment given the overall dynamic package. Although the Colorado has better steering than the Ranger, its ride and handling are not as remarkable. Its high-output engine also produces noticeable noise, while its base engine may lack power in some situations.
When was the last time they were redesigned?
Winner: Tie
The Ford Ranger is newly redesigned for 2024, while the Chevrolet Colorado was completely redesigned for the 2023 model year. Although the Ranger’s frame dates back further, the difference in their newness is negligible and does not significantly impact their comparison.
Are there versions that stand out more than others?
Winner: Tie
Both the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado offer standout versions that cater to different preferences and purposes. The Ranger Raptor stands out with its powerful 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine and coil spring rear suspension system. On the other hand, the Colorado ZR2 impresses with its DSSV spool-valve dampers, which provide exceptional off-road capability and on-road performance. For those seeking the ultimate rock-crawling experience, the Colorado ZR2 Bison takes it even further. Choosing among these standout versions ultimately depends on personal taste and specific requirements.
Which provides better value?
Winner: Chevrolet
Determining the better value between the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado is complex due to variations in engine choices, optional packages, and trim levels. However, in general, the Chevrolet Colorado offers a more affordable starting price compared to the Ranger. Even the Colorado ZR2 is approximately $7,000 less expensive than the Ranger Raptor, making it a more accessible option for buyers.
Conclusion
In the competition between the 2024 Ford Ranger and the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado, both trucks have their strengths and weaknesses. The Ford Ranger excels in terms of power and fuel efficiency, offering a variety of engine options to suit different needs. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Colorado has a more attractive interior design and offers a significantly more affordable starting price. Furthermore, both trucks provide impressive infotainment systems, ample back seat space, and a range of standout versions for specific purposes. Ultimately, choosing between the Ranger and Colorado depends on individual priorities, preferences, and budget constraints.