Which midsize truck has what it takes to handle your adventurous lifestyle, the 2024 Ford Ranger or 2024 Chevy Colorado? Our comparison guide examines each of these popular options.
Key Takeaways
- Compared to the 2024 Ranger (starting at $32,670), the 2024 Colorado (starting at $29,500) offers a slightly lower MSRP.
- The Ranger maximizes speed, offering up to 405 horses and 430 pound-feet of torque!
- For high-speed off-roading or desert racing, the Ranger offers the ultimate option with its all-new Raptor trim model.
- Both midsize trucks were recently redesigned, and both offer roomy, attractive cabins and ultra-modern amenities. However, the Ranger offers innovative features that aren’t available elsewhere!
Lowest Price: 2024 Chevy Colorado
These midsize trucks are extremely competitive, but the entry-level 2024 Colorado delivers the best deal, starting at $29,500. Meanwhile, you can drive home in a newly redesigned 2024 Ranger from $32,670.
With its new engine lineup, the Ranger is now the strongest option. First of all, the Ranger comes standard with more power than the Colorado, courtesy of its peppy EcoBoost base engine. The Ranger’s mid-grade XLT and top-trim Lariat trim models now feature a 315-horsepower turbo V6, turning up the heat, on-road and off. Speaking of the trail, the Ranger’s all-new Raptor trim model is extraordinary, with an exclusive 405-horsepower turbo V6!
The 2024 Ford Ranger powertrain options vary according to trim level:
- 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
Although the Chevy Colorado isn’t as powerful as the Ranger, it’s still pretty impressive on its own. These midsize trucks come standard with a 237-horsepower turbocharged engine. In higher trim models, the same engine is more powerful, providing a stronger ride with 310 horses.
The Colorado is available with two different versions of its 2.7-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, depending on which trim model you select:
- 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
Off-Road Performance: 2024 Ford Ranger
Either midsize truck will transport you into tough terrain, but the Ranger’s new Raptor trim model takes performance to the next level. Not only does it deliver more power than any of the Colorado’s off-road-ready trim models, but the Ranger Raptor is also equipped with adventure-ready gear, including front and rear lockers, Fox Live Valve Racing Shocks, and Ford’s Trail Control low-speed cruise control system.
The Colorado’s most exclusive off-roading model, the ZR2, will also impress you with its traction-boosting gear. For instance, the ZR2 comes standard with an off-road-tuned suspension with a 3-inch lift, Multimatic DSSV dampers, mud-terrain tires. Unfortunately, though, the Colorado ZR2 isn’t nearly as powerful as the Ranger Raptor.
Modern Amenities: 2024 Ford Ranger
Since both trucks were recently redesigned, both will impress you with their cutting-edge infotainment gear and safety systems. For instance, both trucks deliver digital gauge clusters and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. And both offer wireless smartphone charging and built-in navigation.
But the newly redesigned Ranger also offers a few upgrades that are rare in this segment. For example, the available Active Park Assist 2.0 system can pull the Ranger into a parallel parking space without driver assistance. After dark, use the Zone Lighting system to light up different areas outside your Ranger. In especially complicated terrain, use the available Trail Control system, a type of low-speed cruise control, to focus solely on steering.
Your New Midsize Truck
Both midsize trucks deliver roomy comfort and modern infotainment technology. However, the 2024 Ford Ranger is a cut above the competition, offering more power, all-star off-roading, and exclusive features.