When you’re looking to cruise through the wilderness with a powerful turbocharged engine under the hood, the 2019 Ford Ranger and GMC Canyon are two midsize trucks that comply. But which truck is best suited to your personal call to adventure? Our comparison guide takes a closer look at these rugged pickups.
Most Off-Road Potential: 2019 Ford Ranger
This was a close call, but the Ranger offers its adventure-ready FX4 Off-Road package for every single trim level, making the Ford our pick for most off-road potential. Whether you’re in the market for a basic hauler or an upscale cruiser, you can add off-road gear—like upgraded shocks and suspension and a terrain management system—to your chosen Ranger trim model.
The GMC Canyon SLE is the only trim level that’s available with the All Terrain package. So if you’re looking for an off-road-oriented suspension and all-terrain tires, you’re limited to this one truck model.
Best Safety Lineup: 2019 Ford Ranger
The Ranger also comes away with the best rep for safety. This midsize truck offers forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking on every single trim model—technology with major life-saving potential. The midgrade Ranger XLT and up come with Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 system, a bundle of driver aids—like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring—to help you steer clear of danger.
We do like that the GMC Canyon comes offers OnStar emergency telematics on the midgrade SLE and up. Should you suffer an unexpected breakdown, this system would definitely come in handy. Unfortunately, the Canyon doesn’t offer front crash mitigation or lane-keeping assist features though the GMC does warn you of danger with forward collision and lane departure warning technology.
Thriftiest Fuel Economy: It’s a Tie!
When it comes to fuel mileage, both of these midsize trucks get our seal of approval. In fact, the 2019 Ford Ranger and GMC Canyon are two of the thriftiest modern trucks on the road: both earn up to 23 mpg combined.
Tows the Biggest Toys: 2019 GMC Canyon
Both of these midsize trucks will heft a pretty big boat to the beach. However, the Canyon has the edge, towing max loads of 7,700 pounds with its diesel engine. The Ford Ranger is barely less capable, though, towing up to 7,500 pounds of boat. For most midsize truck drivers, that extra 200 pounds won’t make too much of a difference.
For the long run, you’re going to want the 2019 Ford Ranger. It’s the midsize truck with the most off-road potential and the best safety lineup. But this Ford is also one of those most fuel-efficient trucks on the road, and it’s plenty capable besides.