2023 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2023 Ford F-150

Shopping for a 2023 Ford F-150 involved contending with a staggering number of configurations. The roster included regular, Super Cab (extended), and SuperCrew (crew) cab styles, which could be paired with short (5.5-foot), standard (6.5-foot), or long (8-foot) cargo beds. With eight core trims ranging from the practical XL to the high-performance Raptor, and a multitude of engines to choose from, buyers had a lot to consider. The price spectrum started at $35,690 for a two-wheel-drive regular cab in XL trim, extending to $109,345 for the formidable F-150 Raptor R. Factor in the extensive list of optional equipment, like the configurations on the tested XLT SuperCrew with four-wheel drive and the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, and the end price came to $69,115.

Aesthetically, the F-150 in its Area 51 blue-gray paint looked sharp. Its design was familiar and appealing, avoiding any polarizing styles that could dissuade potential buyers. The interior adopted a functional, modular approach, akin to Lego blocks, with practical but plasticky materials. Highlights like the Ford Work Surface offered convenience, though the foldable transmission shifter had a cheap feel. The cloth seats added comfort without overheating in summer or feeling too cold in winter. The overall appeal was strong, thanks to both interior and exterior being thoughtfully designed without missteps.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss had an equally compelling look. The factory suspension lift, box-flared fenders with charcoal gray trim, and a deep, sculpted hood projected a rugged off-road demeanor. The Radiant Red paint added to its visual appeal. The balanced stance and detailing struck a chord without seeming excessive. Inside, the Camaro-inspired dashboard with toggle switches and round air vents added a unique touch.

Though well-styled, the Trail Boss trim level had its drawbacks. Both the gray front fascia and interior materials felt cheap. The interior was dominated by hard plastics, reducing any sense of premium quality. Other trims (LT, Z71, and ZR2) offered better interiors with some body-color paint and nicer materials. With prices ranging from $30,695 to $48,295, the tested truck, equipped with options like the spray-on bedliner and Advanced Trailering Package, totaled $42,150. Despite its shortcomings, the Colorado maintained its charm, combining capability with a balanced design.

Ford's 2023 F-150 offered an array of engine options, with the test model featuring the powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Delivering 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, it provided effortless acceleration, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that always seemed to find the right gear. The truck came equipped with a part-time four-wheel-drive system lacking a full-time mode, but Ford claimed a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds and a payload rating of 3,315 pounds, with these metrics varying based on configuration.

The test truck lacked any adaptive suspension, resulting in a slightly harsh and skittish ride when unloaded. It improved with some load or a trailer attached, and opting for higher trims or the FX4 Package could further enhance ride quality. Handling was secure and the brakes, even during challenging descents, showed no signs of fade. The steering was functional, though not remarkable, and freeway noise levels were pleasantly low. Official fuel economy was rated at 19 mpg combined, but actual testing yielded 17 mpg, partly due to the addictive performance of the twin-turbo V6.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado featured a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine across all trims. In the WT and LT trims, it delivered 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the Trail Boss and Z71 enjoyed a more potent 310 horsepower and 391 lb-ft. The ZR2 trim pushed torque even further to 430 lb-ft. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with the Trail Boss and Z71 models benefiting from a two-speed transfer case for serious off-roading.

The Trail Boss came with a 2-inch suspension lift, while the ZR2 received a 3-inch lift and advanced Multimatic DSSV dampers. Five driving modes were available, including the exclusive Baja mode in the ZR2. Even with its off-road prowess, the Trail Boss managed to traverse tough terrains with minimal wheel slip in Auto mode. On pavement, it offered a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride, despite the rugged tires and suspension.

Handling was commendable, with the robust suspension soaking up road imperfections. The steering and brakes provided a comfortable and responsive driving experience. The powertrain, while strong on paper, didn't quite match the exhilaration of Ford's EcoBoost, nor did it have an engaging engine note. Fuel economy matched the F-150, with the Trail Boss achieving 17 mpg despite official estimates of 19 mpg.

Trucks pose inherent challenges when it comes to accessibility, but the 2023 Ford F-150's step rails eased the climb, though they could be a hindrance off-road. Inside, the XLT offered spacious seats for five, with power adjustments for both front occupants and power-adjustable pedals allowing for an ideal driving position. Storage solutions abounded, from the vast bin under the center armrest to numerous trays and cubbies. Rear seats could be flipped up or folded flat for extra cargo space. The cargo bed, equipped with a spray-in bedliner and the innovative 2.0-kW Pro Power Onboard system, was practical but lacked integrated stepping points for easier access without the optional tailgate step.

The F-150 excelled in payload and towing, with maximum ratings of 3,315 pounds and 14,000 pounds respectively, albeit dependent on specific configurations and powertrains.

For the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss, getting in required more effort, especially for shorter individuals. The truck offered seating for four comfortably, with a fifth passenger space being tight and impractical for long rides. The standard cloth upholstery attracted pet hair but stayed agreeable in various climates. The driver's eight-way power seat ensured comfort, though the front passenger lacked height adjustment.

Back seat space was adequate, especially the legroom, and the rear seat accommodated taller passengers, albeit snugly. The manual air conditioning system was surprisingly effective, cooling quickly during hot weather.

Storage, however, was limited in the Colorado. Trays and compartments were less generous compared to the F-150, although there were ample cupholders. The cargo bed measured 61.7 inches in length, offering decent space but less advanced cargo utilities than Ford's Pro Power Onboard system. The Mid-Position tailgate feature provided flexibility for carrying long items.

The 2023 Ford F-150 in XLT trim came with the Sync 4 infotainment system, which could be updated over the air. The system included a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhanced voice recognition, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. Ford Pass Connect services with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot also came standard. However, Sync 4 had some delays in loading, particularly the satellite radio, and could benefit from bolder graphics for better readability. Despite these issues, the system was user-friendly and excelled in its voice recognition capabilities. The standard stereo offered decent sound, but the available Bang & Olufsen system was a worthy upgrade. Additional tech included remote engine start, trailer-brake controller, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist for semi-autonomous trailer driving.

Conversely, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado impressed with its digital instrumentation and 11.3-inch touchscreen featuring Google Built-in technology. The digital screens offered a sophisticated look despite the otherwise basic interior. Google Assistant provided natural voice recognition, Google Maps ensured navigation was always up to date, and access to Google Play added further functionality. The system supported Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Wireless charging and a decent six-speaker stereo were standard, with the ZR2 trim adding a seven-speaker Bose system. Trailer-towing technology and high-definition cameras rounded off the tech package, aiding in hitching and providing a comprehensive view for off-roading.

The 2023 Ford F-150 came equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). This included standard features like automatic high-beams, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. The Assist package added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-centering assist, evasive steering assist, intersection assist, and speed-sign recognition.

During testing, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering demonstrated impressive performance, though occasionally they displayed quirks and overcorrections on curves and exit ramps. The system required careful monitoring but generally enhanced driving safety and convenience. Additionally, features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts proved useful in daily driving.

The F-150 also had a post-collision braking system to prevent secondary collisions and boasted top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, adding to its appeal.

Similarly, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado offered a robust safety feature set. OnStar provided emergency services, and the Teen Driver system allowed monitoring of young drivers. Standard Chevy Safety Assist included forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams, augmented by a reflective windshield alert system.

Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with active steering assist, rear cross-traffic and pedestrian alert with automatic braking, and rear parking sensors. The forward collision warning system, however, was problematic. When set to the default gap, it issued frequent false alerts, potentially distracting and irritating drivers. Adjusting the gap improved performance, but issues persisted.