GMC Canyon vs Ford Ranger

For 2023, both models have a single engine. As you’ll see, in at least one case, that’s all you’ll need.

The Ford Ranger has a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine that puts out 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It’s a decent amount of power, for sure. However, what if you’re a driver who needs more?

The GMC Canyon equips a 2.7L Turbo High-Output engine that generates 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Not only does the Canyon provide far more oomph than the Ranger, but, as you’ll soon see, it impacts towing capacity as well.

So, how does all that power impact fuel economy? The 2023 Canyon earns an EPA-estimated 20 city/30 highway MPG, which is extremely impressive. Plus, its 21.4-gallon fuel tank capacity means you can travel over 600 miles before needing to fill up.

On the other hand, the 2023 Ranger gets an EPA-estimated 20 city/26 highway rating—similar in city driving but fewer highway miles than the Canyon. Also, it only equips an 18-gallon tank, so you’ll have to make more pit stops at the pump.

If you’re choosing a truck, you probably want to use it to tow. A couple hundred pounds can make the difference in being able to tow the boat or trailer you want to bring along on your next adventure—and so can the towing equipment on board.

Both pickups can be equipped with durable hitches and intelligent safety features to make your time on the road with your towable toy easier. However, hitching up can be hard to do, and the GMC Canyon has a solution. The standard HD Rear Vision Camera can help guide your truck into position.

The Ford Ranger has its own towing amenities, but your reversal path will only be crystal clear in the GMC.

Now that you know what kind of equipment will aid in towing, this raises a question: Will you be able to tow your camper or boat with each truck? Let’s explore their maximum towing capacities to find out!

When properly equipped, the Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. The GMC Canyon outperforms the Ranger by 200 pounds. Its maximum towing capacity hits 7,700 pounds when properly configured. That much power lets you tow plenty, including a medium-sized camping trailer, boat, or car dolly.

Choosing your truck should also involve selecting a comfortable and practical interior that’s right for you. To help you decide which truck is your better fit, consider which attributes you prefer. Cozy seating swathed in premium textiles? Added legroom for your rear-seat passengers?

You’re in luck! Both the Ford Ranger and the GMC Canyon have available leather-trimmed seats and enough room for five riders. However, the Canyon has 45.2 inches of front legroom, while the Ranger tops out at 43.1 inches.

The Canyon’s interior also blocks out road noise with its inlaid door design, shear-style body mounts, and liquid-applied sound deadener. You can enjoy the silence on your next drive or listen to music uninterrupted by the road beneath your wheels.

Both models shine when it comes to interior technology. They offer innovative infotainment systems; however, it may be easier to take command in the Canyon, which provides a standard 11.3-inch touchscreen compared to the 3.5-inch center stack in the Ranger.

Although they both provide access to Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ so you can always stay up to date, only in the GMC Canyon will you enjoy standard wireless connectivity. So, if you’re driving the Ford Ranger, remember to take along a cord.