2023 Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Ranger: Midsize Pickup Showdown

May 19 2023 -

As the midsize pickup truck market continues to grow, two contenders remain in the spotlight: the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado. Both models deliver a range of features buyers are looking for, but there’s no question the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado had the upper hand when it comes to overall performance and off-road capability. Fully redesigned this year, the 2023 Colorado offers a more luxurious interior as well, along with the latest features and the best technology you can find in a modern truck. We guarantee you will be impressed by everything the new Colorado has to offer. Let’s take a look at how it compares with the Ford Ranger.

Powertrains

The engine is the heart of any pickup. The Ranger offers a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter I-4 engine generating 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.

In contrast, the revamped Colorado says goodbye to its previous engine lineup, introducing a single turbocharged 2.7-liter I-4 engine, which comes in three power levels. The entry-level version is competitive with the Ranger's I-4, producing 237 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. The top-tier Colorado model impressively delivers 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. While the base powertrain is for buyers who want better efficiency and don’t need to tow huge loads, the Colorado’s top-of-the-line engine is not just more powerful than anything the Ranger can offer, it is also the segment leader when it comes to available torque. With 430 pound-feet of torque under your right foot, you are never left wanting for more power.

Technology

Stepping inside the new-generation 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, you immediately can tell just how impressive this new model is. With the largest available centre display in the segment, a digital instrument cluster, Google built-in infotainment and more, the Colorado delivers significantly more connectivity features than the current Ranger.

Towing and Payload

The 2023 Colorado boasts a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, with payload capacities reaching up to 1,684 pounds. The Ranger, however, is slightly behind, with models towing up to 7,500 pounds. As for payload capacity, certain models have slightly more than the Colorado, but others have around 1,500 pounds.

Off-Road Models

The Ranger offer a few models and options that feature off-road design elements, like the FX4 Off-Road and Tremor Off-Road packages. These trims feature Terrain Management System, electronic-locking rear differential, and other off-road enhancements. However, the enhancements here are mostly cosmetic and not designed to take the Ranger far off the beaten path.

The 2023 Colorado offers three off-road-oriented trims: the Z71, Trail Boss, and the top-tier ZR2. The ZR2 model stands out with its Multimatic DSSV frequency selective dampers, 2.0-inch suspension lift, skidplates, and an optional Desert Boss package for a more rugged appearance. While the Z71 and Trail Boss are certainly esthetic as well, the ZR2 is a fully off-road focused model with technologies that you won’t find on any other truck in this segment and designed to take you over the most difficult terrain or across sandy or muddy tracks with ease and confidence.

On paper, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger both offer robust features for midsize pickup truck enthusiasts. While the Ranger continues to offer its reliable capabilities, the all-new Colorado impresses with its modern engine lineup and off-road trims. The choice between these two trucks will ultimately depend on the buyer's specific needs and preferences.

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