The mid-size pickup truck segment has witnessed a synchronized overhaul, with the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma receiving comprehensive updates. This fortuitous timing allows for a detailed examination of their early specifications to discern how they measure up against each other.
Powertrain Comparison
In terms of powertrain options, the Toyota Tacoma offers a diverse range, from a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four to a hybrid variant, delivering up to 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.
Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Colorado boasts three powertrain choices based on a turbocharged 2.7-liter I-4, with the Turbo HO powertrain reaching a torque of 430 pound-feet.
Ford Ranger presents two powertrain options, with a base turbocharged 2.3-liter I-4 producing 270 horsepower, while the Ranger Raptor elevates power with a 3.0-liter V-6 generating 405 horsepower.
Comparing Their Towing & Hauling Capabilities
When it comes to towing and hauling capabilities, the Toyota Tacoma impresses with a towing capacity of up to 6500 pounds and a payload capacity ranging from 1230 to 1709 pounds.
The Chevrolet Colorado matches closely with a towing capacity of 7700 pounds and a payload capacity reaching up to 1684 pounds. Ford Ranger offers a towing capacity of 7500 pounds and a payload capacity spanning from 1411 to 1805 pounds.
Comparing Their Suspension & Brakes
Suspension and brake configurations differ among the trucks. The Toyota Tacoma offers various setups for off-road capability, with all models featuring four-wheel disc brakes.
Chevrolet Colorado maintains simpler configurations, with the ZR2 variant boasting superior off-road specifications. Ford Ranger features rear leaf springs and outboard shocks as standard, with the Ranger Raptor equipped with adaptive Fox Live Valve dampers.
Comparing Their Off-Road Performances
In terms of off-road performance, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro offers impressive ground clearance and approach angles. The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 reigns supreme with superior off-road specifications surpassing other variants.
The Ford Ranger Raptor provides remarkable off-road capabilities with enhanced approach and departure angles.
Comparing Their Weights & Sizes
Size and weight vary across models. The Toyota Tacoma showcases a longer wheelbase, with curb weights ranging from 4145 to 4720 pounds.
The Chevrolet Colorado features a five-foot-two-inch bed and curbs weights ranging from 4716 to 4971 pounds. Ford Ranger presents curb weights ranging from 4203 to 4415 pounds, with the Ranger Raptor weighing 5325 pounds.
Comparing Their Prices & Tech Present
Pricing varies across models, with the Ford Ranger starting at $35,755, the Chevrolet Colorado beginning at $30,695, and the Toyota Tacoma starting at $32,995.
Each truck presents a range of tech offerings, including digital gauge displays and infotainment systems with wireless smartphone mirroring.
In this heated competition, each mid-size truck brings its unique strengths and features to the table, catering to the diverse needs of truck enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
