2019 Toyota Tacoma vs 2019 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2019 Ford Ranger
Reliability Side-by-Side
2019
Toyota Tacoma
Grade A-
A supremely tough and reliable truck, if you can live with its quirky transmission and less-than-stellar fuel economy.
2019
Chevrolet Colorado
Grade C+
A capable truck whose overall reliability is compromised by a problematic transmission and inconsistent electronics.
2019
Ford Ranger
Grade B
A capable truck with a strong engine, but its 10-speed transmission and some electrical quirks warrant mindful ownership.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2019 Toyota Tacoma
Score 88/100 vs 80/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2019 Toyota Tacoma
low risk
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2019 Toyota Tacoma★ | 2019 Chevrolet Colorado | 2019 Ford Ranger |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | — | — |
| Moderate Repairs | — | — | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 19 / 24 | 18 / 25 | 21 / 26 |
| MSRP (New) | $25,550 | $21,300 | $24,300 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2019 Toyota Tacoma
Transmission Shifting Logic
Fuel Pump Recall (202023-010)
Infotainment System Glitches
2019 Chevrolet Colorado
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
Infotainment & Electrical System
Engine (3.6L V6 VVT System)
2019 Ford Ranger
10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10R80)
Electrical / Infotainment System
Rear Axle / Driveshaft
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma, 2019 Chevrolet Colorado, and 2019 Ford Ranger are commonly cross-shopped because they target the same midsize-truck buyer who wants everyday usability plus legitimate towing and off-road capability. Tacoma appeals to buyers prioritizing long-term durability, off-road trims (TRD Off-Road/Pro), and strong resale value. Colorado offers the widest powertrain spread (including a diesel) and a more “full-size-truck-like” road feel in certain trims. Ranger targets drivers who want strong turbo torque, confident towing, and a more modern powertrain feel than some rivals. Key decision factors usually come down to engine preference (V6 vs turbo vs diesel), ride/handling, cab/bed configuration needs, and total cost of ownership. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2019 Toyota Tacoma - Automatic transmission shift behavior: Some owners report inconsistent shifting/gear hunting and delayed downshifts, often noticeable early in ownership and persisting through higher mileage; updates can help but it’s a common complaint. - Rear differential seepage or axle seal leaks: Not universal, but reports tend to appear as mileage climbs (often 30,000–80,000 miles). - Interior/infotainment quirks: Entune-era head units can be slow or glitchy (Bluetooth connectivity, screen responsiveness), more annoyance than failure. 2019 Chevrolet Colorado - 8-speed automatic shudder (gas V6 with 8L45): A well-known issue in 2017–2019 GM trucks where light-throttle vibration/shudder can occur; fluid changes and updated service procedures often help, but some vehicles experience repeat symptoms (commonly reported from 10,000–60,000 miles). - Diesel emissions-system complexity (2.8 Duramax): EGR/DPF-related issues can occur over time, especially with frequent short trips; problems are more likely as mileage accumulates (often 50,000+ miles) and repairs can be expensive. - Electrical/infotainment and sensor complaints: Intermittent camera, parking sensor, or touchscreen issues are reported, typically sporadic rather than systemic failures. 2019 Ford Ranger - 10-speed automatic shift quality: Some owners report harsh or abrupt shifts or learning-related odd behavior; it may improve after adaptive learning cycles, but complaints can persist in some trucks (often noticed from low mileage through mid-life). - Turbo-related drivability concerns: Occasional reports of hesitation, boost leak symptoms, or sensor-related check-engine lights; not widespread but can show up by 20,000–70,000 miles. - Fit-and-finish/trim and rattles: Interior rattles and weatherstrip noise are common owner complaints over time, usually nuisance issues rather than reliability-ending faults.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, Colorado typically had the lowest entry price, Ranger sat mid-pack, and Tacoma often carried higher transaction prices because demand stayed strong. On the used market, Tacoma usually commands the highest prices for comparable mileage and trim; it also tends to retain value exceptionally well, which helps total cost of ownership even if you pay more upfront. Ranger resale is generally solid but not Tacoma-strong, while Colorado pricing can be attractive used, especially in non-ZR2 trims. Insurance costs usually track vehicle value and repair costs: Tacoma can be higher simply because it holds value; Ranger and Colorado are often similar, though driver profile and trim level matter. Maintenance: Tacoma’s routine service is typically straightforward and affordable, and long-term durability is a key selling point. Colorado’s diesel can deliver excellent fuel economy but may cost more over time due to emissions-related components and diesel-specific service. Ranger’s turbo-four is efficient and strong, but long-term costs can rise if turbo/boost-control components need attention outside warranty. Overall, Tacoma tends to win on resale; Colorado can win on purchase price; Ranger can win on payload and a strong towing/power balance.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: 2019 Chevrolet Colorado (Crew Cab). It offers a comfortable ride, good road manners, and a practical back seat, with strong availability of convenience and safety features in mid-to-high trims. If you prioritize rear-seat comfort and daily-driver refinement, Colorado has an edge. Best for commuters: 2019 Ford Ranger (2WD or 4WD depending on climate). The 2.3L turbo provides effortless torque with competitive MPG (around 21/26 mpg in 2WD) and strong passing power, making it easy to live with in traffic and on highways. Best for enthusiasts: Depends on the type of enthusiasm. For off-road community support and long-term modding, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma (TRD Off-Road/TRD Pro) is the easiest platform to build and holds value extremely well. For high-speed desert/off-road hardware out of the box, the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is the most specialized. Best value overall: 2019 Ford Ranger for capability per dollar in many real-world configurations (7,500-lb towing, up to roughly 1,860-lb payload, strong acceleration). If “value” means lowest long-term depreciation, the Tacoma often wins, but if it means maximizing capability and modern powertrain performance for the money, Ranger is the sweet spot, with Colorado close behind if you find a well-priced V6 example (and verify any transmission shudder history).
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
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