Starting at
Starting at
| 270 | Standard Horsepower (hp) | 200 |
| 310 | Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 191 |
| 1,860 | Max Payload (lbs) | 1,550 |
While full-size trucks like the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado often get all the acclaim as capable road warriors, there’s a lot to be said for their smaller counterparts. The Ranger and Colorado are two of the best-selling trucks in the midsize segment, and a comparison of the 2021 Ford Ranger vs 2021 Chevy Colorado makes it easy to see why. Both trucks are exceptionally versatile and capable, two of the most attractive characteristics you can find in a truck.
Ford and Chevrolet are pioneers in America’s automotive landscape and, since the early 1900s, have shaped how we live and work. Each automaker has brought something unique to the industry, from Henry Ford’s early vision to give Americans the freedom of travel to Louis Chevrolet’s dream of making performance-inspired vehicles affordable and available to the masses. We see each of these legacies continue in models like the 2021 Ranger and the 2021 Colorado.
The Ranger and Colorado are not the largest trucks in their respective fleets, but they prove that size isn’t a factor when it comes to capability; instead, it enhances it. Both trucks rely on their midsize classification to extend their maneuverability and agility, whether navigating rush-hour traffic in the city or venturing on the trail. What’s even better is that this maneuverability is enhanced by both the Ranger’s and Colorado’s exceptional powertrains and innovative technology that ready the trucks for every adventure at hand.
But, one has to lead the other, right? So, which truck leads the midsize segment for its versatility, capability, and affordability? That’s an easy question to answer when you compare the models side-by-side.
The 2021 Ford Ranger outshines the 2021 Chevy Colorado in terms of standard power, performance, and agility. But before we get into powertrains, it’s important to compare the size and weight of the trucks since this dramatically impacts how the trucks perform and respond. The Ranger sits on a 126.8-inch wheelbase and is slightly smaller than the Colorado, which measures anywhere from 128.3 inches to 140.5 inches. This means that the Ranger is easier to maneuver and more agile in tight spaces. The Ranger also makes extensive use of aluminum body panels to save weight without compromising capability.
The Ranger’s smaller stature means more responsiveness from the truck that’s powered by a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine. The engine features automatic start-stop technology that optimizes efficiency and performance by shutting off fuel consumption when idling and then seamlessly powering the engine back to life when it’s time to accelerate. The engine is mated to a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifting and a wide gear range as the engine churns out 270 horses and 310 lb-ft of torque to make the Ranger responsive and fun to drive. It’s also responsible for the Ranger’s maximum towing capability of 7,500 pounds across the lineup.
The longer and heavier Colorado isn’t as agile as the Ranger, nor does it offer as much standard power or capability. The 2021 Colorado comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. The pairing generates 200 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which is noticeably less than the Ranger, as is the Colorado’s standard towing capability of 3,500 pounds. For more power and capability, you have to upgrade to a higher trim, and that means spending quite a bit more money. This expense increases even further when comparing fuel economy since the Colorado is less efficient than the Ranger with a base fuel economy of 22 mpg combined, while the Ranger travels further at 23 mpg combined despite offering more power.
Midsize trucks like the Ranger and Colorado are ideal for off-road adventures because of their size and agility. Ford and Colorado cash in on this with off-road options like the Colorado ZR2 and the Ranger’s FX4 and Tremor Off-Road Packages. But which one is better? It all depends on what you’re looking for in a trail-runner.
The Ranger’s FX4 Off-Road Package is a staple in the Ford lineup and adds off-road-tuned monotube shocks, all-terrain tires, and an electronic-locking rear differential. The truck’s underbody is protected by a heavy-duty skid plate, while the steel front bash plate adds to its ruggedness and durability on the trail. These features are the inspiration for the Tremor Off-Road Package that takes the Ranger’s prowess on the trail to new levels.
The Tremor adds a lifted suspension, FOX 2.0 monotube dampers, and specially tuned leaf springs for optimal performance and maneuverability on the trail. The 32-inch all-terrain tires, hoop-style steps, and rear recovery hooks make the Tremor instantly recognizable, along with the magnetic painted grille, red nostril inserts, and body graphics. Inside, the interior features exclusive seating, black accents, and six upfitter switches that extend the Ranger’s versatility and ready it for a variety of accessories and modifications. Along with these features, the Tremor’s wider stance delivers better ground clearance, approach, departure, and breakover angles, all of which make a world of difference on rugged terrain.
Ford also gives you the option for further customization with three unique performance parts packages available from Ford Performance. The Level 1 package adds a Fox Off-Road Suspension Leveling Kit and unique graphics. The Level 2 package builds on the Level 1 package and adds blue tow hooks, a RIGID Off-Road Fog Light Kit, and exclusive BFGoodrich all-terrain tires. The Level 3 package offers the ultimate in off-road components and equips the Ranger with red tow hooks, a heavy-duty front bumper, an exclusive sport exhaust system, and a black powder-coated steel chase rack to mount accessories.
You won’t find as many off-road options in the 2021 Colorado lineup. Instead, Chevy gives you a choice between the Colorado Z71 that’s good for light off-roading or the rugged ZR2. The ZR2 raises the Colorado with a 2-inch suspension lift and widens the truck’s stance by 3.5 inches. It comes equipped with front and rear electronic-locking differentials as well as Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve damper technology. If you’re looking for unique off-road components like fog lamps, skid plates, and a heavy-duty rear bumper, you’ll have to spend more on the Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition.
The 2021 Ranger is one of the most technologically advanced trucks in the segment. It offers a variety of innovative features, from the available Terrain Management System to the SYNC 3 infotainment system. It’s also laden with intuitive safety and driver-assist tools that give you the confidence you need when you’re on the road.
The Ranger’s Terrain Management System is truly impressive because it gives you greater control over how the truck performs. Included with the FX4 and Tremor Off-Road Packages, the system equips the Ranger with four selectable drive modes: Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, and Sand. The system then tailors the Ranger’s shift patterns, responsiveness, and gearing to deliver optimal maneuverability, performance, and traction on the terrain at hand.
Trail Control is a feature you won’t find on the 2021 Colorado lineup and extends the Ranger’s versatility on the trail. Like the Terrain Management System, Trail Control is included in the FX4 and Tremor Off-Road Packages and acts like cruise control when you’re on the trail. It allows you to focus on the road ahead by controlling the Ranger’s speed and braking when you’re navigating demanding terrain. This puts your focus exactly where it needs to be.
The Ranger’s many other tech features include smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an intuitive touchscreen display that’s home to the renowned SYNC 3 infotainment system, and a suite of active and passive safety and driver-assist tools like blind spot monitoring, pre-collision assist, and automatic emergency braking. The 2021 Colorado doesn’t offer as many standard features, which makes the Ranger an even better value. The Colorado comes with a standard rear vision camera and the Chevrolet infotainment system with smartphone integration. To enjoy safety and driver-assist tools like forward collision alert, rear park assist, and lane departure warning requires upgrading to a top-tier trim.
The 2021 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Chevy Colorado have a lot to offer in terms of maneuverability, capability, and performance. Their sizes make them agile and efficient, whether they’re navigating a busy urban center or blazing a new trail. However, one truck exceeds the other, and that’s undeniably the 2021 Ranger, a truck that’s an exceptional value in every category of performance, capability, and innovation.
Here at Newton Ford South, we’re excited to show you everything trucks like the Ranger and the rest of the Ford lineup has to offer. When you shop with us, you’ll discover that, like the Ranger, we’re the best in the business. Why? Because we believe that buying a vehicle should be fun and exciting - so much so that we promise to change your experience.
To do this, we’ve made a few changes to the car-buying process so that it’s more convenient and tailored to your needs. Our Newton Fastpass program even allows you to complete the entire process online from the comfort of your home or office. You can connect with our team, who will gladly bring the car to you whether you’re at home or the office. Once you decide on a vehicle, we’ll walk you through the entire process with complete transparency so that you know exactly what you’re paying for. From there, we’ll wrap up the paperwork and help you get back on the road in the Ford of your dreams!
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
