2024 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2023 RAM 1500 was a full-size pickup available in both quad cab and larger crew cab configurations, with bed lengths of either 6-foot, 4-inch or 5-foot, 7-inch. The Limited trim, which was near the top of the eight available trims, offered a luxurious experience with its $3,895 Night Edition package, featuring a stealthy look with 22-inch black aluminum wheels. Inside, the Limited trim was adorned with leather, contrasting stitching, and open-pore wood on the dash, complemented by metallic trim. The 12-inch portrait-oriented screen added a unique touch to the interior, alongside practical features like chunky volume controls and a Ram logo on the dash.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado embraced a bold, aggressive design inspired by the Camaro, with rakish headlights and a sharply angled grille. The interior followed a similar trend, featuring Camaro-inspired circular climate control vents and a clean, horizontal dashboard layout. The Colorado was available in several trims, including the WT, LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2, each offering varying levels of features and off-road capabilities. The ZR2 Bison, an upgraded version of the ZR2, was equipped with unique bodywork and protective gear, making it a formidable off-road vehicle. The interior of the Colorado was designed for comfort, with a car-like seating position and user-friendly controls, although second-row legroom was somewhat limited.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel engine. The top TRX trim featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine, delivering an impressive 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The eTorque system provided additional torque and improved fuel economy, while the eight-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth shifting. The RAM 1500 excelled in towing, with a maximum capacity of 5,783 kilograms and a payload capacity of up to 1,043 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The truck's coilover suspension and available air suspension contributed to a smooth ride, while the 14.9-inch brake rotors provided confident stopping power.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado was powered by turbocharged four-cylinder engines, with the base version producing 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and the Turbo Max version delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering solid low-end power for city driving and off-road adventures. The Colorado's maximum towing capacity was 3,492 kilograms, with a payload capacity of 775 kilograms. The ZR2 Bison trim was equipped with Multimatic DSSV dampers, providing exceptional shock absorption for off-road terrain, while maintaining a comfortable ride on paved roads. The truck handled corners with stability, although some body roll was present due to its off-road suspension.

The 2023 RAM 1500 boasted a plethora of storage options, including a two-tiered centre console and a spacious cabin with heated and cooled front seats. The crew cab configuration offered ample rear legroom of 1,148 millimetres, with reclining rear seats for added comfort. The multifunction tailgate and optional RamBox storage system provided additional utility, making it a practical choice for those needing extra storage space.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado featured a four-door quad cab with a 1,567-millimetre bed, offering decent space for gear. The car-like seating position provided comfort for long trips, with ample front-row legroom and headroom. However, second-row legroom was limited, especially for taller passengers. The high bed wall and floor made loading items more challenging, but the redesigned bed steps in the rear bumper improved accessibility. The ZR2 Bison's spare tire mounted in the bed reduced usable space, which could be a consideration for those frequently using the bed.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the ability to run two functions simultaneously. The Uconnect system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although some lag was noted with the former. The optional Equipment Group 1 added features like a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. Multiple USB outlets, a wireless charging pad, and 115-volt outlets ensured connectivity for all devices.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado came standard with an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The intuitive layout included a digital dock for easy navigation between menus. The Colorado also offered an 11-inch digital instrument panel, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio. Higher trims added wireless device charging and additional USB ports, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring available as options or part of packages. Despite this, the NHTSA awarded the crew cab a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS gave it Good marks in most categories, with some Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The LT Convenience Package III added reverse automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA rated the Colorado with four stars for frontal crash testing and five stars for side crash testing, although it received three stars for the rollover test.