If you’re shopping for a small pickup truck, you’ll probably be wondering if you should choose the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado or 2022 Ford Ranger. Both of these trucks are versatile vehicles that deliver excellent work capability and composed handling, but they’re different in many ways. Check out this comprehensive comparison between the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger to determine which one is more suitable for you.
Prices and Trim Levels
For the 2022 model year, the Chevrolet Colorado is available in four trim levels: the WT, LT, and the off-road-oriented Z71 and ZR2. The entry-level WT has a base manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,200, while the top-spec ZR2 costs at least $42,550. The 2022 Ford Ranger, on the other hand, comes in only three models: the XL, XLT, and Lariat. Its starting prices range from $25,980 for the XL to $34,070 for the Lariat.
Exterior
Both the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger are handsome and rugged-looking trucks that exude a commanding presence on the road. However, in terms of exterior specifications and features, the Colorado has a number of practical advantages that may contribute to a better driving experience. For instance, its wheelbase is 1.5 inches longer than that of the Ranger, which results in enhanced ride quality and stability. Additionally, it comes standard with 17-inch wheels, whereas its rival rides on 16-inch wheels.
Another notable exterior feature of the Chevy Colorado is the electronically controlled shutters in its front grille. These shutters help improve fuel economy by automatically shutting off airflow to minimize drag when the engine needs less cooling. The Ranger isn’t equipped with active grille shutters.
Engine
The 2022 Chevrolet Colorado gives you a choice of three engines. If you opt for the WT or LT, you’ll get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque. For more power, go for the Z71 or ZR2, which offers a stout 3.6-liter V-6 with 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque as standard equipment. The LT, Z71, and ZR2 can also be fitted with a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder rated at 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
The base and turbo-diesel engines of the Colorado are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the V-6 works with an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but you can get the available four-wheel drive for enhanced traction.
Regardless of the trim level, the 2022 Ford Ranger uses a 2.3-liter turbo-four engine that generates 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque and pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This unit is more powerful than the Chevy’s standard engine, but it isn’t as punchy as the optional V-6. The Ranger takes about seven seconds to sprint from zero to 60 mph, whereas a V-6-equipped Colorado needs only 6.4 seconds.
Towing Capacity
If you want to use your new truck to tow heavy loads, you should be better off choosing the Chevrolet Colorado. With proper equipment, this Chevy model can tow up to 7,700 pounds. In contrast, the Ford Ranger has a tow rating of 7,500 pounds.
Off-Road Performance
When it comes to venturing off the beaten path, the Chevrolet Colorado is the clear winner, thanks to its two specialized off-road trims. The Z71 comes with an array of off-road features that enable it to tackle rough terrain, including an off-road-tuned suspension, automatic locking differential, hill descent control, and recovery hooks. However, if you’re planning to do extreme off-roading, it’s recommended that you get the ZR2. Besides standard four-wheel drive, this trim also features a two-speed transfer case, selectable front and rear locking differentials, a transfer case shield, and off-road rocker protection.
The Ford Ranger doesn’t have an off-road-oriented trim, but it offers two packages that can significantly improve its off-road prowess. Then again, even the most off-road-capable Ranger model can’t compete with the Colorado ZR2 where the pavement ends.
Fuel Economy
When equipped with its standard engine and rear-wheel drive, the Chevy Colorado delivers a fuel-economy rating of 19/25 mpg (city/highway). In comparison, a rear-wheel-drive Ford Ranger returns 21/26 mpg, making it slightly more efficient. Nevertheless, it isn’t as economical as a diesel-powered Colorado, which gives you 20/30 mpg.
Interior
Both the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger come in two body styles, which may seat up to four or five. Regardless of which configuration you choose, the Colorado has more legroom, headroom, and shoulder room in the front row than the Ranger. Additionally, its Crew Cab version offers more legroom in the back row than its rival’s SuperCrew model. Therefore, if you spend a lot of time in your truck or frequently go on long-distance trips with your family, the Chevrolet is probably the better option.
The two trucks are about the same in terms of interior quality. Their cabins feature a simple and functional design and a good fit and finish. Also, they provide a commanding view of the road ahead and do a great job of keeping road and wind noise at bay.
Tech and Safety Features
Another appealing aspect of the Chevrolet Colorado is its long list of standard infotainment features. The base trim of this Chevy truck is fitted with a 7-inch touch-screen display, Bluetooth, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, and a six-speaker audio system. The Ford Ranger, on the other hand, offers a 3.5-inch display, one USB port, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Bluetooth, and a four-speaker system.
However, the Ranger has a larger selection of standard driver-assistance technologies than the Colorado. It’s equipped with forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. The Chevrolet only provides a rearview camera and teen-driver monitoring as standard equipment.
If you’re residing in or near Georgetown, Kentucky, and you want to know whether the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado is the right truck for you, consider coming to Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick of Georgetown for a test drive. No matter which trim level or paint color you like, you’ll find your ideal Colorado at our dealership. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

