The 2020 Ford Ranger and GMC Canyon are two modern midsize trucks with a lot to offer, from weighty towing capabilities to cushy cabins. Which should you choose? That all depends on what you want out of your pickup. Check out our comparison guide to learn more.
Best Interior: It’s a Tie!
When it comes to interior comfort, both trucks have a lot to offer. The Canyon comes standard with a savvy list of infotainment features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, two USB ports, and smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. On the Ranger, Wi-Fi is standard on the base XL model, but you have to upgrade to the midgrade XLT to get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We do think that Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system is easier to figure out than the GMC Infotainment system, however.
As you climb the trim levels, the two trucks go head-to-head with upscale comfort and convenience options. The Ranger and Canyon offer everything from leather upholstery to LED headlights to premium stereo systems. Since both trucks offer a number of trim levels and options packages, it’s easy to create the truck best suited to your personal needs.
Max Towing: 2020 GMC Canyon
Here, the 2020 GMC Canyon has the edge. Properly equipped, this midsize truck can manage trailers weighing up to 7,700 pounds. The 2020 Ford Ranger trails behind, but only slightly. With the Trailer Tow package, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds. If your boat or camper weighs more than that, you may need to choose the Canyon. However, if it weighs a lot more, you may even want to consider buying a full-size truck with greater towing capabilities.
Thriftiest Trucking: It’s a Tie!
Both the 2020 Ford Ranger and GMC Canyon earn up to 23 mpg combined. For the Ranger, this combined figure breaks down to 21 city/26 highway mpg. The Canyon earns up to 20 city/30 highway mpg.
Since every Ranger comes standard with the same powertrain, you don’t have to pay for an engine upgrade to achieve these figures. The Canyon, on the other hand, earns its thriftiest EPA ratings with the optional turbodiesel engine, which does cost extra.
Off-Road Undertakings: 2020 Ford Ranger
You can add four-wheel drive and the FX4 off-road package to your Ranger for the ultimate trail-style adventure. The Ranger’s new FX2 off-road package also makes it possible for rear-wheel-drive models to hit the dirt in style.
The GMC Canyon offers a special All Terrain trim model, with features that include off-road tires and reinforced suspension. However, the Canyon isn’t as flexible as the Ranger, which offers off-road adventure for every kind of driver.
With its car-like performance, the GMC Canyon is more refined than most midsize trucks. However, with its stronger towing performance and special off-roading features, the 2020 Ford Ranger is the best choice for adventurous truck drivers.