Which midsize truck is better? Edmunds compares the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger

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Today’s rejuvenated midsize pickup class is led by the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger

Buying a midsize truck can be a smart choice if you want a truck that’s capable but less expensive and more maneuverable than the typical full-size truck. There are quite a few options available and among them are two domestic headliners: the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger.

Both trucks have been recently rdesigned and dramatically improved. They’re also about as evenly matched as you can get, so much so that only one-tenth of a point separates them in Edmunds’ midsize truck rankings. You could be happy with either one yet they differ in small ways that could tip the balance based on your needs. Edmunds’ experts break down the attributes that will help you decide which is best for you.

The Ranger offers a trio of muscular engines, starting with a 270-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, followed by a larger 315-horsepower turbo V6. Even the base engine is surprisingly powerful for standard truck duties; for the true need-for-speed types, there is also off-road-focused Ranger Raptor trim that packs a 405-horsepower turbo V6.

Chevy doesn’t offer quite as extensive of a lineup. The Colorado has just a single turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 237 horsepower; an upgraded version is also available with 310 horsepower. Even the base engine makes plenty of low-end power that’s useful both for towing and keeping pace with city traffic. In Edmunds’ testing, the four-cylinder Ranger and the Colorado with its more powerful engine both accelerated from zero to 60 mph in a quick 6.7 seconds.

At its best, the four-cylinder Ranger gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined in both rear- and four-wheel drive. The Colorado gets slightly