Which is the best choice for your rugged lifestyle, the 2024 Ford Ranger or the 2024 Chevy Colorado? Our comparison guide is here to help you decide which of these all-American midsize trucks best serves your sense of adventure.
Key Takeaways
- For more horsepower, choose the 2024 Ford Ranger.
- The Colorado can tow the biggest trailer, but the Ranger offers stronger hauling capabilities.
- With its all-new Raptor trim model, the Ranger delivers a thrilling off-road performance.
- The newly redesigned Ford Ranger is available with exclusive features, including the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system.
Are There New Engines Seen Under the Hood of the 2024 Ford Ranger?
Newly redesigned for 2024, the Ranger now offers three powerful engine options! The base Ranger XL sticks with the tried-and-true EcoBoost inline-four. Its low-end torque contributes to a strong towing performance and quick acceleration. The Ranger XLT and Lariat turn up the heat with a brand new turbocharged V6, offering even greater power and potential for speed. Then there’s the all-new Ranger Raptor trim, which features an exclusive, 405-horsepower turbo V6 that’s specially designed to tear up the trail.
The redesigned 2024 Ford Ranger offers four engine options, depending on trim model:
- 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
It might not be as powerful as the Ranger, but the 2024 Colorado is also known for its strong performance and quick acceleration. This Chevy truck offers two versions of a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. You’ll find the base, 237-horsepower version, known as the Turbo, on the WT and LT trim models. You can upgrade these trims with a more powerful version of the same engine, known as the TurboMax, which also comes standard on the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 trucks.
The 2024 Chevy Colorado powertrain lineup includes these options:
- 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
How Much Can the 2024 Chevy Colorado Tow?
To tow the biggest camper, check out the Colorado. Properly equipped, Chevy’s midsize truck can tow up to 7,700 pounds. However, a properly equipped Ranger is nearly as capable, offering a max tow rating of 7,500 pounds.
On the other hand, the Ranger is the better option for drivers who want to haul heavier equipment. Ford’s midsize truck can haul payloads weighing up to 1,805 pounds, while the Colorado’s hauling capabilities max out at 1,685 pounds.
Can the 2024 Ford Ranger Offroad?
The Ranger’s all-new Raptor trim model takes off-roading to an entirely new level. Simply put, the Colorado can’t compete with the Ranger Raptor’s 405-horsepower turbo V6! And the Raptor is equipped for both high-speed desert racing and a slow crawl through complicated terrain. Standard features include FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks, front and rear electronic locking differentials, and helpful Drive Modes like Rock Crawl and Baja.
While the Colorado offers three rugged trim models — the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 — none deliver the same kind of power and speed as the Ranger Raptor. But the Colorado’s top-of-the-line ZR2 is handsomely equipped with rugged features, including upgraded suspension with a 3-inch lift, rocker-panel rails, and mud-terrain tires.
What Features Are Seen From the 2024 Ford Ranger?
Both midsize trucks deliver a tech-savvy cabin. Standard features include a digital gauge cluster, central infotainment touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And you can upgrade either truck with upscale features, including leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a heated steering wheel.
However, the Ranger offers some features you won’t find on any other midsize truck! For instance, the available Pro Trailer Backup Assist system helps you back a trailer in the desired direction. And you can add the Zone Lighting system to light up specific areas around your truck for unloading or loading after dark.
Should You Choose the 2024 Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado?
In the end, the redesigned 2024 Ford Ranger has more to offer, with stronger engine options, incredible off-road performance, and exclusive tech features. Come into Brighton Ford and let us help you find the perfect Ford Ranger that will suit your lifestyle.