The Ultimate Mid-Size Pickup Showdown

In the world of versatile vehicles, it’s hard to beat a mid-size truck. They're easy to maneuver, handy in all situations and tough as nails. But how do you pick which moderate monster is most worthy? Join us as PineRidge Ford faces off two of the biggest medium-duty names in the pickup world -- Ford Ranger versus Chevrolet Colorado. Which one is built for life in Saskatchewan? Read on to find out as we compare everything from tech features to raw strength to ultimately crown one of these four-wheeled warriors as truck champion.

Tech Specs

In this day and age, drivers in Meadow Lake expect more than just good tunes when it comes to truck technology. Thankfully, both of these contenders stand up well in the world of infotainment. Colorado and Ranger each offer perks like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected on the go. They also come with features like WiFi Hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity and touchscreen displays. 

While Colorado comes with Chevrolet’s MyLink system, Ranger boasts Sync 3 which includes bonuses like FordPass -- a program that allows you to control and access the vehicle from your phone. All in all, when it comes to advanced tech, it’s a close call between these two.

Safety on the Road

Chevrolet brings some new safety features to the table in the Colorado, including available Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, but a handful of useful tools pale in comparison to Ranger’s Ford Co-Pilot 360 safety suite. With Co-Pilot, pickup drivers can haul with ease using driver-assistance programs like Blind-Spot Information System for both truck & trailer, making it so much easier to travel with your boat or camper. 

The smart safety features are not as accessible on the Colorado, only being offered on a few of the top trims. Ford drivers get much more say in their safety, allowing any model to add on the reasonably priced safety package.

Raw Power

Let’s face it -- at the end of the day, a pickup truck has to pack a punch. While medium-sized trucks may not be the heaviest hitters, both Colorado and Ranger are impressive when it comes to sheer strength. If we’re simply talking highest possible numbers, Colorado’s diesel model tops the charts with 7,700 lbs of towing strength and 369 lb-ft of torque -- but it’s worth noting this is the most expensive model available, with two other gas engine options being the more popular choices.

Ranger, on the other hand, uses the same 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine no matter which trim level you choose, giving every Ranger driver 7,500 lbs of tow power, 270 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque -- absolutely skunking the gas Colorado’s 7000lbs and max 275 lb-ft of torque. Not to mention, when it comes to fuel consumption, Ford’s 2.3L gas engine offers just as good fuel mileage as Chevy’s diesel -- and beats Chevy’s gas options by a long shot.

The Verdict:

Don’t get us wrong -- both of these trucks are great, but if you want to take home the winner, Ranger wears the crown. Sure, Colorado may boast the highest numbers, but Ford gives incredible power at every price point and model trim (plus that turbocharged engine makes for awesome acceleration.)

Ranger drivers get better safety and more tech features without having to commit to top trim lines, another reason why we feel Ford has more to offer in this match. The prices are similar for both trucks, but Ranger gives every driver the power they need to haul -- not just those who dish out the most cash. 

If you’re ready to drive away in PineRidge’s king of midsized pickups, talk with our sales staff today! We’ll get you in for a test drive so you can feel just how impressive the new Ranger is for yourself. Contact us or browse our Ranger inventory now to find your next truck.