2023 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2023 Jeep Gladiator

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator retained much of its previous design, with only a few updates such as a new High Velocity Yellow paint colour and added standard equipment for the Willys model. The High Altitude model received a new Capability Package, enhancing its off-road capabilities with a winch-capable steel front bumper, steel rock rails, and a front off-road camera system. The Gladiator lineup in Canada included six trim levels, starting with the Sport S trim at $52,295 and reaching up to $68,890 for the High Altitude trim, excluding destination charges. The Mojave model, tested here, was equipped with features like Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, a 2.5-centimetre front suspension lift, and 33-inch all-terrain tires, making it ideal for high-speed desert driving. Despite its higher price, the Gladiator offered unique features like a removable top and doors, and a diesel engine option, setting it apart in the midsize pickup truck segment.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss, on the other hand, presented a rugged off-road appearance with its factory suspension lift, box-flared fenders, and a deeply sculpted hood. The Colorado's design was well-balanced, with a hint of Camaro influence in the interior's dashboard toggle switches and air vents. However, the base Work Truck (WT) and Trail Boss trims had a less appealing grey front fascia and a basic interior. The Trail Boss trim, priced at $50,844 with options, included features like a spray-on bedliner and the Advanced Trailering Package. The Colorado offered a range of trims with varying power outputs, with prices ranging from $37,229 to $58,929, including destination charges. The Trail Boss trim, with its off-road capabilities and comfortable ride, made it a strong contender in the midsize truck market.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator offered two engine choices: a standard 3.6-litre V6 with 285 horsepower and an optional 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 producing 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The turbodiesel, while improving fuel economy, had a lower towing capacity. The Gladiator featured a Command-Trac part-time 4WD system, with options to upgrade to Selec-Trac or Rock-Trac systems on certain models. The Mojave model, equipped with the gas V6 and Command-Trac, averaged 13.6 L/100 km in testing, slightly above the expected 12.3 L/100 km. The Gladiator excelled in off-road conditions, with its Fox shocks providing a smooth ride over rough terrain. However, on highways, the Gladiator's noise levels and steering imprecision were notable drawbacks.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado came with a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine across all trims. The WT and LT trims offered 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the Trail Boss and Z71 trims delivered 310 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The ZR2 trim featured a high-output version with 430 lb-ft of torque. The Colorado's eight-speed automatic transmission and Autotrac 4WD system provided versatility, with the Trail Boss and ZR2 trims offering additional off-road capabilities. The Trail Boss, with its 5-centimetre suspension lift and all-terrain tires, performed well off-road, though it was stiff over rough terrain. On pavement, the Colorado was quiet and comfortable, with a robust suspension and responsive handling. However, its fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.8 L/100 km compared to the expected 12.4 L/100 km.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator required some practice to enter and exit, especially through the narrow rear doors. Optional side steps were more of a hindrance than a help due to their placement. Inside, the manually adjustable driver's seat was comfortable but required frequent readjustment. The rear seats offered good legroom and air conditioning vents, though taller passengers might find the plastic front seatback panels uncomfortable. Storage options included netting on door panels, cupholders, and a storage bin under the centre armrest. The Gladiator's cargo box, while lacking depth, offered features like a spray-in bedliner and a Trail Rail Management System. The Gladiator boasted a best-in-class payload capacity of 775 kilograms.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss provided comfortable seating for four, with the option to squeeze in a fifth passenger. The test truck's cloth upholstery attracted pet hair, but the eight-way power driver's seat offered a proper driving position. The back seat provided adequate headroom and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents standard on most trims. The Colorado's air conditioning system was effective, quickly cooling the cabin. Storage space was limited, with small door panel trays and a narrow centre armrest bin. The Colorado's cargo bed measured 1,186 litres, with features like an EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate and a StowFlex storage panel. The Mid-Position tailgate allowed for carrying long items, supporting up to 225 kilograms.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator, despite its rugged appearance, offered several tech features. The Mojave test truck included an Off-Road+ driving mode and an optional TrailCam forward-facing camera. The Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system, available in 7-inch and 8.4-inch sizes, provided Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The test vehicle had the larger screen with navigation, connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the voice recognition system was lacking, often failing to understand commands. Additional tech included passive keyless entry and a dual-zone automatic climate control system with an air filter.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado featured digital instrumentation and an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology. Even the base WT trim included these features, with an 8-inch screen for instrumentation. The Google-based tech offered natural voice recognition, Google Maps navigation, and access to apps through Google Play. The infotainment system supported Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Wireless charging was available, and the Trail Boss trim had a six-speaker stereo. The Colorado also offered trailer-towing technology and a network of camera views for off-roading.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator came with minimal standard safety features, with optional packages available. The test vehicle included SiriusXM Guardian Services, offering SOS emergency calling and collision notification. The optional Safety Group added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors. The Advanced Safety Group included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Gladiator received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a four-star frontal-impact protection rating. The IIHS rated the Gladiator's headlights as Marginal.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado offered a comprehensive list of standard and optional safety features. OnStar provided emergency calling and crash notification, while the Teen Driver system offered a report card for young drivers. Chevy Safety Assist included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The forward-collision warning system required adjustment to avoid false alerts, a common complaint among owners.