Skip to main content

Watch out, the new and improved Chevrolet Colorado is coming in hot. This remodeled mids-size truck is coming after rivals with a vengeance, and the 2023 Jeep Gladiator is its latest victim. Let’s see why the 2023 Chevy Colorado outranks the 2023 Jeep Gladiator.  

2023 Chevy Colorado vs. 2023 Jeep Gladiator: Which truck is better? 

The 2023 Chevy Colorado off-roading in sand
2023 Chevy Colorado | Chevrolet

The 2023 Chevy Colorado and 2023 Jeep Gladiator are designed to meet different needs. They may not stack up apples to apples, but there are advantages to consider. For example, the Gladiator has a solid axle and a diesel engine, while the Colorado has three engine outputs. 

But according to the U.S.News, the 2023 Colorado outranks the 2023 Gladiator on the list of Best Compact Pickup Trucks for 2023. The Colorado came in second place and earned a score of 8.2 out of 10. 

The Gladiator landed in third place with an 8.1 score, so the difference is minuscule. However, a win is a win. Also, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is ahead of the Gladiator with an 8.2 rating, and the Honda Ridgeline is in first place with a score of 8.4. 

We know that the Ridgeline is the top choice because of its smooth ride and spacious interior. But why does the Colorado have a slight advantage over the Gladiator? 

Is the 2023 Colorado more comfortable than the 2023 Gladiator? 

The 2023 Chevy Colorado may outrank the 2023 Jeep Gladiator because it has a better ride quality. The Gladiator has a solid axle and large tires that make it a bit rougher, while the Colorado is smooth with more responsive handling.

The Colorado is a bit sportier with a faster acceleration. The Gladiator could have more direct steering and requires more attention at higher speeds. Also, the Gladiator has more wind and road noise at higher speeds. 

However, the Gladiator provides more interior space and has more comfortable seats. The seats in the front are well-padded, well-bolstered, and supportive. It has enough room for adults in the rear. 

The Colorado may feel a bit tight for taller folks with limited knee space in the front. Headspace is tight, and adults will want to avoid the backseat on longer trips. 

Plus, the Gladiator is praised for having a strong and effective automatic climate control system with rear vents for passengers. It’s the only convertible truck if you want to connect with nature. 

While the Colorado has an improved interior, it’s still a little lacking. Higher trims still feature rough plastic materials. But the Gladiator lacks storage for smaller items. 

Does the Colorado or Gladiator have more power? 

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator parked near trees on a mountain road
2023 Jeep Gladiator | Jeep

The 2023 Chevy Colorado starts with a 2.7-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2.7 Turbo Plus engine increases things to 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The 2.7 Turbo High Output engine cranks out 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. 

With the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, you get a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine cranks out 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. 

Both trucks can tow up to 7,700 lbs. The Gladiator can carry a payload of up to 1,710 lbs, and the Colorado can carry a payload of up to 1,684 lbs. Also, the Gladiator has standard 4×4 across the lineup. 

So, the Colorado outranks the Gladiator because it’s a little more comfortable on the pavement. It’s also more affordable. But the Gladiator offers more space, value, and off-roading capabilities.