2024 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2023 Ford F-150

The 2023 Ford F-150 offered a wide array of configurations, making it a versatile choice for buyers with varying needs. It came in regular, extended (Super Cab), and crew cab (SuperCrew) styles, with cargo beds ranging from 5.5 to 8 feet. The model lineup included eight core trims, from the basic XL to the high-performance Raptor, with prices starting at $35,690 and reaching up to $109,345. The F-150's design was familiar and appealing, with a focus on function over form. Inside, the truck featured a modular design with practical elements like the Ford Work Surface upgrade, though some components felt cheap. Despite its high price, the cloth seats were appreciated for their comfort in varying temperatures.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado took a bold approach with its design, inspired by the Camaro's aggressive styling. It featured rakish headlights and a sharply angled grille, giving it a futuristic look. Inside, the Colorado followed Chevy's new design trends, with a clean, horizontal dashboard layout and Camaro-inspired circular climate control vents. The trim levels ranged from the base WT to the off-road-focused ZR2, each offering a variety of features. The WT model included a digital instrument panel, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added conveniences like wireless charging and upgraded upholstery. The ZR2 Bison, designed for off-road adventures, featured unique bodywork and protective gear, enhancing its rugged appeal.

The 2023 Ford F-150 offered a range of engine options, with the test truck featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it provided smooth and responsive acceleration. The F-150's maximum towing capacity was 14,000 pounds, with a payload rating of 3,315 pounds, depending on the configuration. The truck's ride was firm when unloaded, but it felt structurally solid and provided secure handling. The brakes performed well, and the steering was adequate for various driving conditions. The F-150 averaged 17 mpg in testing, slightly below the EPA's 19 mpg estimate.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado came with turbocharged four-cylinder engines, both displacing 2.4 liters. The base engine produced 237 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the Turbo Max version offered 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing solid low-end power and responsive acceleration. The Colorado's maximum towing capacity was 7,700 pounds, with a payload capacity of 1,710 pounds. The ZR2 Bison, designed for off-road use, featured Multimatic DSSV dampers for exceptional shock absorption. On paved roads, the ride was firm but comfortable, with stable handling and some body roll typical of off-road trucks.

The 2023 Ford F-150 provided comfortable seating for five, with optional power-adjustable seats and pedals for a perfect driving position. Storage was abundant, with various bins, trays, and cubbies throughout the cabin. The rear seats could be flipped up or folded flat for additional cargo space. The test truck's cargo bed featured a spray-in bedliner and the 2.0-kW Pro Power Onboard system, though climbing into the bed was challenging without the optional tailgate step.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado was available in a four-door quad cab with a 5-foot, 2-inch bed. The car-like seating position offered comfort for long trips, with ample front-row space. The layout allowed for a user-friendly design, though the low cup holders were inconvenient. Second-row legroom was tight, especially for taller passengers. The high bed wall and floor made loading items difficult, but the larger bed steps in the rear bumper were helpful. The ZR2 Bison's spare tire mounted in the bed reduced usable space, which could be a drawback for frequent bed users.

The 2023 Ford F-150's XLT trim featured the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The system was easy to use, though it could benefit from bolder graphics. The voice recognition system was excellent, and the standard stereo offered decent sound. Additional features included remote engine starting, trailer-brake controller, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado's standard infotainment system included an 11.3-inch touchscreen with a digital dock for easy navigation. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a digital home button and volume dial for user-friendly operation. The base model included an 11-inch digital instrument panel, USB ports, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. Higher trims added wireless charging and additional USB ports, enhancing connectivity for frequent travelers.

The 2023 Ford F-150 came with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked well, though they displayed some quirks. The F-150 earned high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado offered a range of standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The LT Convenience Package III added reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Colorado received four stars for frontal crash testing and five stars for side crash testing from the NHTSA, with a three-star rollover rating.