2019 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2019 Ford Ranger

The 2019 Ford Ranger returned as a midsize pickup, closely matching the dimensions of its larger sibling, the F-150, from years past. It boasted a 7,500-pound towing capacity and a 1,860-pound maximum payload, nearly rivaling the V6 F-150. This was largely due to its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which delivered 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Ford made several modifications for the American market, including tighter panel gaps and fortified frames for solid steel bumper mounts. The Ranger's pricing started at $24,300, with the base XL trim offering essential features like a rear-view camera and forward-collision warning. Higher trims like the XLT and Lariat added more luxury and tech options, including the Ford Sync3 system, leather upholstery, and advanced safety features.

In contrast, the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 with the Midnight Edition package featured an all-black design that was hard to keep clean. The Colorado offered a range of trims, from a basic extended cab with a 4-cylinder engine starting at $22,395 to a fully loaded ZR2 crew cab with the Bison Package costing over $52,000. The Z71 trim, starting at $37,000, struck a balance between these extremes. The Colorado's design was clean and functional, with basic materials and an organized control layout. The Midnight Edition added aggressive tires and other off-road enhancements, but the interior remained practical and easy to clean, albeit with some cheap-looking plastic panels.

The 2019 Ford Ranger featured a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, previously seen in the Focus RS and Mustang, modified for truck duty. Paired with a 10-speed transmission, the engine delivered 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Ranger achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, outperforming competitors like the Tacoma's V6. The engine was most responsive in Sport mode, reaching 60 mph in under 7 seconds. However, the steering and braking were somewhat numb, and the suspension, while optimized for on-road use, felt floaty over uneven surfaces. Off-road performance was limited due to insufficient suspension articulation.

The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado offered three engine choices: a 200-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, a 308-horsepower 3.6-liter V6, and a 181-horsepower 2.8-liter turbo-diesel. The turbo-diesel provided the highest torque at 369 lb-ft and the best towing capacity at 7,700 pounds. The V6 could tow up to 7,000 pounds. The Z71 trim featured off-road suspension tuning and Chevy’s Autotrac system, making it capable off-road. However, the deep chin spoiler and side-step rails hindered its breakover angle. On pavement, the V6 engine felt sluggish due to a reluctant throttle response, but once up to speed, the 8-speed automatic transmission performed well. The Z71 suspension made the ride bouncy, and the Goodyear tires were noisy. Fuel economy averaged 18.6 mpg, close to the EPA rating of 19 mpg.

The 2019 Ford Ranger offered versatility, from an affordable base model to more luxurious trims. However, it wasn't ideal for off-roading, and the SuperCab configuration was only suitable for luggage or small pets. The softer suspension caused a floating sensation on rough roads, which could make passengers feel sick. The SuperCrew cab and 4WD options reduced the maximum payload by a few hundred pounds.

The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado emphasized practicality with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. The front seats were comfortable with power adjustments, while the rear bench was cramped but included cup holders, USB ports, and a power outlet. However, the lack of rear air conditioning vents was noticeable on hot days. The Colorado featured corner-step bumpers, an EZ Lift and Lower tailgate, and a spray-in bed liner, making it highly functional for utility purposes. The maximum payload was 1,557 pounds, and the truck offered various accessories to enhance its utility.

The 2019 Ford Ranger's base XL trim included essential tech features like a rear-view camera, USB port, and forward-collision warning. Higher trims offered the Sync3 system, which was user-friendly but not particularly responsive. The Ranger also featured a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot and an optional Bang & Olufsen stereo. Advanced safety systems were available, providing near-Level 2 autonomy.

The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado featured the new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, which was simple and intuitive, similar to a smartphone. It included a 7- or 8-inch display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice recognition. Upgrades included a navigation system, Bose premium sound system, and a wireless phone-charging pad. However, the tuning knob's functionality was frustrating, making it easier to use the steering-wheel buttons for changing stations.

Test data for the 2019 Ford Ranger was unavailable from NHTSA and IIHS. There was one recall affecting 3,500 vehicles due to an improperly installed wiring sub-harness for the shifter, which could cause the vehicle to shift out of Park even when off.

The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado lacked advanced safety technologies. Standard features included a reversing camera and a Teen Driver monitoring system. Only the LT trim offered forward-collision and lane-departure warnings. OnStar subscription services provided additional safety features. The IIHS rated the Colorado poorly for headlights, child seat LATCH anchors, and front passenger safety in a small overlap frontal-impact collision. It received a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA, with excellent side-impact protection but a 3-star rollover resistance rating.