In a tense competition, the 2025 Ford Ranger and GMC Canyon go head-to-head with turbocharged power, rugged capabilities, and surprising comfort. Which midsize truck deserves your hard-earned dollars? Let’s take a closer look at each model!
Key Takeaways
- The Ford Ranger delivers maximum horsepower and the heftiest hauling capabilities. Meanwhile, the Canyon tows the biggest trailer.
- Make the most of your mountain expeditions with the Ranger’s top-notch performance upgrades!
- Both midsize trucks deliver a smooth ride and plenty of luxury upgrades.
- With features you can’t get from other midsize trucks, the Ranger has the edge when it comes to technology.
Best Engine Options: 2025 Ford Ranger
The Ranger is available with three engine options, giving it more appeal with a wider range of drivers. For instance, if you’re looking for the best blend of power and efficiency, the base EcoBoost engine supplies 270 horses and earns up to 23 mpg combined (21 city/26 highway). And if you’re looking for top-of-the-line power, the Ranger Raptor speeds ahead of the competition with its 405-horsepower turbo V6. The Ranger is also a capable choice. Properly equipped, this midsize truck can tow up to 7,500 pounds or haul payloads of up to 1,805 pounds.
2025 Ford Ranger Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.3L turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Available for XLT, Lariat: 2.7L turbo V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor-exclusive 3.0L turbo V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
The GMC Canyon isn’t exactly big on options, with the same engine in every trim model. But even if it doesn’t give you as much power as the Ranger’s 3.0-liter V6, the Canyon’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine is pretty impressive. It racks up 310 horsepower for your jaunts into the mountains. The Canyon can even tow a heavier trailer than the competition, maxing out at 7,700 pounds (though it’s not as strong in the hauling department, with max payloads of 1,700). To keep up with the Ranger, though, the Canyon would need to offer both a thriftier engine option (EPA ratings max out at 20 mpg combined (19 city/23 highway)) and a more powerful one!
2025 GMC Canyon Powertrain Options
- 2.7L turbo four-cylinder engine (310 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Rugged Capabilities: 2025 Ford Ranger
This was kind of a close call, but the Ranger comes out on top. For starters, an optional FX4 package outfits any four-wheel-drive Ranger with mountain-friendly upgrades, including an electronic-locking rear differential and off-road-tuned suspension. Then there’s the Ford Ranger Raptor, a top-of-the-line trail-rated truck that can handle the wildest off-road adventures. With upgrades like 33-inch BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tires and Fox suspension dampers, the Raptor was built for a rollicking good time.
The Canyon loses points because it doesn’t offer an equivalent to the FX4 package, which would help you outfit any trim model for Rocky Mountain rides. What this midsize truck does offer, however, is an especially rugged package that you can add to one trim model in particular, the AT4. With the AT4X AEV pack, you can try to keep up with the Ranger Raptor with upgrades that include 35-inch mud-terrain tires and steel underbody skid plates. But without the Raptor’s turbo V6 and high-speed off-road suspension, it’s a long shot.
Cabin Comfort: It’s a Tie!
Looking for the comfiest commute into Denver? You’re faced with a tough choice. Both trucks come standard with two rows of roomy, supportive seating. And although they’re tuned for a sporty performance, both trucks deliver a surprisingly smooth ride.
When it comes to luxury, the Ranger has a little more scope. Four trim models (XL, XLT, Lariat, and Raptor) range from pretty basic to very stylish. The entry-level XL (starting at $33,350*) goes easy on your savings account. And the premium Lariat and Raptor trims treat you to the finer things, like leather-trimmed seats and ambient interior lighting.
The 2025 GMC Canyon is available as three trim models (Elevation, AT4, and Denali), but none start out as basic as the Ranger XL. And that means you’ll end up spending a little more for a Canyon (starting at $38,400) right off the bat. Like the Ranger, though, the Canyon is available with everything you need for a cozy winter drive, from heated front seats to a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
User-Friendly Tech: 2025 Ford Ranger
Looking for the latest infotainment gear and safety technology? The Ranger outdoes its segment competitors with an ultramodern standard lineup. Every trim model features a digital instrument cluster and an expansive SYNC 4 infotainment touchscreen. Plus, Ford’s midsize truck is a step ahead of its competitors, with exclusive tech features to enhance trailer safety (blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage) or back your camper into a tight parking space (Pro Trailer Backup Assist). For commuters, the adaptive cruise control system’s stop-and-go capabilities make rush-hour traffic a little less contentious.
It’s true that the Canyon doesn’t offer as many innovative upgrades (like trailer coverage for its blind-spot monitoring system). However, this midsize truck does offer the usual tech gear. In fact, the Ranger and Canyon have quite a few available features in common, from wireless smartphone charging pads to premium audio systems. We also have to give the Canyon credit for its user-friendly infotainment system, which includes Google-based navigation.
Colorado’s Favorite Midsize Truck
So, which is a better buy, Ranger or Canyon? If you ask us, we’d choose Ford’s midsize truck every time! Not only does it deliver more power and Colorado-style toughness, but it’s also big on comfort and technology. The best way to find out if the Ford Ranger is right for you is to take it for a spin. Visit us at Brighton Ford for a hands-on experience!