The truck market continues to expand, with small pickup trucks gaining popularity as practical alternatives to full-size models. Let's compare three leading compact trucks: the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Honda Ridgeline.

Engine Options

Chevrolet Colorado:

• 2.5L four-cylinder: 200 hp, 191 lb-ft
• 3.6L V6: 308 hp, 275 lb-ft
• Duramax diesel: 181 hp, 369 lb-ft

Ford Ranger:

• 2.3L EcoBoost: 270 hp, 310 lb-ft

Honda Ridgeline:

• 3.5L V6: 280 hp, 262 lb-ft

Drivetrain Features

• Colorado and Ranger: Standard RWD, optional AWD
• Ridgeline: Standard AWD with 9-speed automatic
• Colorado: Choice of 6-speed or 8-speed automatic
• Ranger: 10-speed automatic

Bed Configurations

Colorado:

• Extended or crew cab
• Bed lengths: 5'2" or 6'2"

Ranger:

• SuperCab (6' bed)
• SuperCrew (5' bed)

Ridgeline:

• Crew cab only
• 5'3" bed

Towing and Payload Capacity

Ranger:

• Maximum towing: 7,500 lbs
• Payload: 1,560-1,860 lbs

Ridgeline:

• Towing: 5,000 lbs
• Payload: 1,583 lbs

Colorado:

• Base engine towing: 3,500 lbs
• V6 towing: 7,700 lbs
• Payload: 1,550+ lbs

Interior Quality

The Ridgeline leads with premium materials and spacious cabin design. While the Colorado and Ranger offer more basic interiors, they feature superior infotainment systems with better response times.

Size Comparison

Midsize trucks offer several advantages over full-size models:

• Better maneuverability
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Easier parking
• Sufficient capability for most users
• More affordable pricing

These compact trucks deliver practical utility without the bulk of full-size pickups, making them ideal for daily driving and light-duty work.

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