2026 Chevy Colorado Vs. 2025 Ford Ranger: Which Is Better?
When the conversation turns to the Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger, it’s about which midsize truck delivers more straight from the start in terms of features and capability. The 2026 Colorado shines with stronger standard output under the hood, higher towing ability, and impressive core technology that doesn’t require climbing the trim ladder. Meanwhile, the Ranger asks drivers to upgrade just to keep pace.
At Goodwin Motor Group, we’re diving in to compare the Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger and highlight why the Colorado stands out as the more compelling choice.
2026 Chevy Colorado vs. 2025 Ford Ranger Overview
- The Colorado packs superior standard power and capability.
- Efficiency goes to the Ranger, but the Colorado balances strength and MPG.
- Expect a higher towing and payload capacity with the Chevy truck.
- The Colorado comes loaded with more default tech and amenities.
- Multiple off-road trims are available for the Colorado; the Ranger limits focus to the Raptor.
| 2026 Chevrolet Colorado | 2025 Ford Ranger | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L TurboMax |
|
| Standard Horsepower | 310 | 270 |
| Standard Torque | 430 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD | 2WD or 4WD |
| 0-60 | 6.0–7.5 sec | 6.9 sec |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Comb) | 19 / 24 / 20 MPG | 21 / 26 / 23 MPG |
| Fuel Tank Size | 21.4 gal | 18 gal |
| Dimensions (L / W / H) | 212.6–213.2 / 74.9–78 / 78.8–79.8 in | 210.6–210.9 / 86.7 / 74.4–75.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Curb Weight | 4,204–4,805 lbs | N/A |
| Cargo Space | 41.9 cu ft | 43.5 cu ft |
| Bed Size Length | 61.7 in | 59.6 in |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
| Max. Payload Capacity | 2,046 lbs | 1,788 lbs |
| Interior Features |
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| Exterior Features |
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| NHTSA Safety Rating | 4 / 5 stars | 4 / 5 stars |
| Factory Warranties |
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Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Trims
The 2026 Colorado boasts five trims – WT, LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 – with additional trail-capable components available through the optional ZR2 Bison Package.
By contrast, the 2025 Ranger offers four trims – XL, XLT, Lariat, and the off-road-focused Raptor – making the Raptor the only dedicated all-terrain model in its series.
Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Performance
At first glance, the Ranger seems to have the advantage with three engine options compared to the Colorado’s single powertrain. However, the core 2.7-liter TurboMax on the Chevy delivers 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the Ranger’s base 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Even upgrading to the Ranger’s 2.7-liter V-6 only raises the horsepower slightly to 315, but it still falls short with 400 pound-feet of torque.
The only engine that surpasses the Colorado is the available 3.0-liter V-6, producing 405 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. But this extra muscle comes with a catch; it’s exclusive to the Raptor, which is the most expensive trim in the Ranger lineup.
Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Towing & Payload
The Colorado continues to rise above the competition with a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds5 and 2,046 pounds of payload.7 Coupled with its robust bed and tailgate functionality, the Colorado is a midsize truck that excels for drivers who need light-duty hauling and versatile bed utility.
The Ford Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds,6 falling 200 pounds short of the Colorado’s max. It also lags in payload, with a maximum capacity of just 1,788 pounds,8 which is more limiting than that of the Colorado.
Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Specs
In terms of traction-optimized specs, the new Chevrolet Colorado for sale in Brunswick, ME, leads the way with several trims engineered for adventure, including the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2. The Ford Ranger reserves wilderness-bound components for the Raptor trim.
2026 Colorado:
- Trail Boss: 32-inch all-terrain tires, 2-inch lift, four drive modes, off-road performance display.
- Z71: Similar to the Trail Boss features, plus Z71 20-inch wheels and LED fog lamps.
- ZR2: 33-inch mud terrain tires, 3-inch lift, Multimatic DSSV dampers, up to 4.5-inch lift with the optional factory lift kit.
2025 Ranger:
- Raptor: Elevated clearance, bash plates, seven drive modes, Trail Control, off-road shocks.
Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Dimensions
Both are midsize pickups, but the Colorado edges out the Ranger with a slightly larger frame – nearly 3 inches longer and 4 inches taller in standard models – plus a longer box size at 61.7 inches versus 59.6 inches on the Ranger.
These dimensions are complemented by practical bed add-ons. The Colorado boasts up to 17 tie-downs, an available StowFlex tailgate with a 500-pound mid-position load capacity when properly equipped, a built-in measurement tool, an optional 120-volt power outlet, and cargo lighting. The Ranger has an available box side step, in-bed power, and LED lighting.
Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Exterior & Interior
Inside, the Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger share similar cabins, featuring cloth seating, a single-zone climate control system, and available upgrades such as leather trim, heated front seats, and remote start.
On the outside, the Chevy Colorado takes a sportier approach than the Ranger, leaning more toward a modern, sharp athletic style. It also provides standard exterior attributes the Ranger lacks, such as heated, power-adjustable side mirrors and a spare all-season tire.
Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger Safety & Technology
When it comes to base technology, the Colorado is the winner. Default amenities include a best-in-class 11-inch Driver Information Center,9 an 11.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity. In contrast, the Ford Ranger comes standard with an 8-inch instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen featuring SYNC 4, with larger screens available only on higher trims.
Safety is integrated into both trucks, with the Chevy Colorado offering Chevy Safety Assist and the Ford Ranger using Ford Co-Pilot360.
Test-Drive the 2026 Chevy Colorado at Goodwin Motor Group
As we wrap up the Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger comparison, it’s clear that the Colorado is the midsize champion. With beefier performance, higher towing and payload specs, cutting-edge tech, and a multifunctional bed, the Colorado stands out as the smarter choice. Schedule your tour of the new Chevrolet Colorado for sale in Oxford, ME, and make it yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Chevrolet Colorado and the Ford Ranger?
The key difference between the Chevy Colorado vs. Ford Ranger comes down to strength, capability, technology, and comfort. The 2026 Colorado dominates with stronger standard horsepower and torque, higher towing and payload capacities, and a more spacious, feature-packed cabin. While both trucks have 5-foot bed lengths, the Colorado’s bed goes a step further with robust utility and advanced tailgate functionality.
Which truck offers better towing and payload: the Chevrolet Colorado or the Ford Ranger?
The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado pulls ahead of the Ford Ranger in both towing and payload. When properly equipped, the Colorado can handle up to 7,700 pounds of towing and 2,046 pounds of payload, while the Ranger trails with a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds6 and a 1,788-pound payload.8 In addition, drivers get a higher standard torque of 430 pound-feet on the Chevy.
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1This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/chevrolet/colorado/2026
2This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/ford/ranger
3EPA-estimated 19 city/24 hwy/20 comb 2.7-liter TurboMax 2WD.
4EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
5Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
6When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
7For comparison purposes only. See the Owner's Manual and the label on the vehicle door jamb for the carrying capacity of a specific vehicle.
8Maximum payload capabilities are for properly equipped vehicles with required equipment and vary based on vehicle configuration, accessories, and option content. Horsepower, torque, payload and towing are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.
9Based on latest available competitive data. Excludes other GM vehicles.
10Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov.
11Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.