Ford Ranger Vs. Chevy Colorado

The Ford Ranger has been around long enough to witness the rise, fall, and resurgence of the small truck segment. First introduced in 1982 for the 1983 model year, the original Ranger was Ford’s answer to the growing popularity of compact pickups. It packed the styling and utility of a full-size truck into a more efficient, city-friendly package.

Over the years, the Ranger underwent several generations, evolving from a small utility hauler to a more refined and capable midsize platform. After a brief hiatus from the North American market in the 2010s, Ford brought the global T6-generation Ranger to U.S. shores in 2019—offering a modern take on a proven classic. In 2023, Ford introduced a new version of the T6 Ranger, featuring updated styling, enhanced technology, and performance options, including a high-powered Raptor trim.

Today’s Ranger strikes a balance between everyday usability and serious capability, making it a strong choice for weekend warriors and off-roaders alike.

Chevy Colorado

Chevy introduced the Colorado in 2004 as a replacement for the long-running S-10 compact pickup. It arrived with sharper styling, improved ride quality, and modernized powertrains—all designed to compete head-to-head with the segment’s growing competition, including the Toyota Tacoma and, of course, the Ranger.

The first-generation Colorado ran until 2012 before briefly exiting the U.S. market. It returned in 2015 with a complete redesign that introduced bolder styling, enhanced interior refinement, and improved towing capabilities. Chevrolet also broadened the lineup to include everything from fuel-efficient four-cylinders to a torque-rich Duramax diesel—plus rugged off-road trims like the Z71 and ZR2.

In 2023, Chevy rolled out a completely redesigned third-generation Colorado built on an updated platform, with a simplified engine lineup, new off-road-focused models like the Trail Boss and ZR2 Bison, and cutting-edge tech upgrades. It’s now one of the most versatile and modern midsize trucks on the road.

Model Overview

Now that we’ve covered the backstory, let’s take a closer look at what each truck brings to the table today—from chassis design to ride quality, capability, and overall driving feel.

Ford Ranger

The latest Ford Ranger isn’t trying to be a crossover in disguise—it’s undeniably a truck. Built on a body-on-frame platform, the Ranger prioritizes durability, off-road potential, and utility. Whether you’re towing trailers or crawling over rocks, it’s a midsize pickup engineered to act like a full-size—just with a smaller footprint.

With available four-wheel drive, an updated high-strength steel frame, and stout powertrain options, including a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and the raucous 3.0L in the Ranger Raptor, the Ranger feels ready for serious work or play. Inside, recent updates have added much-needed technology and refinement, but the overall design still leans more toward ruggedness than luxury.

If you want a midsize pickup that still feels like a traditional truck, the Ranger fits the bill.

Chevy Colorado

Reliability and Longevity

Both the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado are built to handle daily driving, weekend adventures, and occasional abuse—so neither is a slouch in the reliability department. But when you’re looking for a midsize truck you can count on for the long haul, it’s worth taking a closer look at each platform’s strengths and potential weak spots.

Ford Ranger

The Ranger benefits from a proven foundation. Its current T6 platform has been in production globally since 2011 and has seen extensive use in demanding markets like Australia, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. That means this chassis and drivetrain have been thoroughly tested under real-world abuse—well before it hit U.S. roads in 2019.

The Ranger’s 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine has earned a reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency across Ford’s lineup, from Mustangs to Explorers. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and cooling system upkeep, is crucial, but major reliability issues are rare. The 10-speed automatic (co-developed with GM) performs well, though early versions had occasional shift quality concerns that have since been addressed.

The newer 2.7L and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engines—found in upper trims and the Ranger Raptor—also have solid track records from other Ford applications (like the F-150 and Bronco), adding confidence for buyers looking for more muscle without sacrificing longevity.

In short, the Ranger is a well-vetted platform that rewards regular maintenance with solid long-term dependability.

Chevy Colorado

The Colorado’s latest generation (2023 and up) made a bold move by eliminating engine variety in favor of a single option: the 2.7L TurboMax inline-four, tuned in multiple output levels depending on trim. While dropping the V6 and Duramax diesel surprised some, the TurboMax has proven itself capable and durable in the full-size Silverado before being repurposed for the Colorado.

This 2.7L engine features cast-iron construction, a forged crankshaft, and a chain-driven oil pump—all characteristics that contribute to its long-term durability. Although it hasn’t been used in Colorado for long enough to gather decades of data, early signs indicate strong reliability, particularly given its success in heavier-duty applications.

One advantage of the simplified lineup is that it has fewer drivetrain variables—every 2025 Colorado runs the same engine and 8-speed transmission, making parts sourcing and repairs more straightforward in the long run. GM has also improved the quality of the Colorado’s interior and electronics, addressing prior issues with infotainment glitches and build consistency in earlier generations.

Overall, the latest Colorado seems to be engineered for durability, though only time will tell if it matches the bulletproof reputation of its earlier V6 and diesel models.

Pricing and Value 

On paper, both trucks start in the low-to-mid $30,000 range, with premium trims reaching into the $50,000-plus territory. The Colorado tends to match or slightly undercut the Ranger at comparable trim levels, while incentives and dealer discounts (especially on the Colorado) mean buyers may see even more value beyond the sticker price.

That said, factory demand and optional features can push the Ranger toward its MSRP or modest premiums in some markets—so timing and negotiation are crucial. When shopping for your new midsize, it’s always a good idea to scope out several dealerships and keep an eye out for sales. Better yet, wait until the end of the year to snag a killer deal on the outgoing model. 

Which Is Right for You? 

When it comes to choosing between the 2025 Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado, there’s no wrong answer—just different strengths for different drivers.

The Ford Ranger leans more towards traditional truck DNA. With a rugged body-on-frame build, powerful EcoBoost engine options, and trims like the off-road-ready Raptor, it’s engineered with serious work and adventure in mind. If you’re looking for a midsize truck that behaves like a downsized F-150, the Ranger delivers that experience—with enough tech and comfort to keep things modern.

On the other hand, the Chevy Colorado blends capability with refinement. Its simplified powertrain lineup and clean new interior make it approachable, while its off-road trims, such as the Trail Boss and ZR2 Bison, push the envelope for weekend warriors. It’s a truck that feels just as comfortable on pavement as it does on the trail, with a user-friendly layout and thoughtful features that appeal to daily drivers.

Ultimately, both trucks offer impressive performance, technology, and value in the midsize segment. Whether you prioritize brute strength, off-road finesse, daily comfort, or overall versatility, there’s a version of the Ranger or Colorado that’ll likely check the right boxes.

Still torn? We recommend test-driving both to get a feel for their driving dynamics, cabin layout, and overall fit—because sometimes, the best truck is the one that feels right when you’re behind the wheel.

Top Products for Your Midsize Truck

Whether you park a Ford Ranger or a Chevy Colorado in your driveway, protecting your investment and making it yours starts with the right gear. At RealTruck, we’ve got the top upgrades to keep your midsize pickup looking sharp and ready for whatever’s next, including all-weather floor mats and liners, seat covers, tonneau covers, and more. 

For additional information on both trucks, check out our Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado resources on RealSource™—your source for all things truck, Jeep®, and off-road.