Test drove a GMC Canyon Z71, 5 Cyl, Ext. cab, automatic yesterday.
This is my observation based on being an 04 Ranger Edge 4.0L, ext. cab, automatic owner.

Which style is best is in the eyes of the viewer, I like the GMC a little more.

The 5 Cyl felt a little quicker, maybe do to the axle ratio. I have the 3.55 limited slip and the difference was very slight.

Engine noise and vibration was about the same in both to me. The GMC's ride was a little smoother. The Ranger feels more solid.

Fit and finish was pretty good as it is with my Ranger. The quality and look of the materials are better in the Ranger.

The seat postion and feel is more to my liking in the Ranger.

The bed is bigger in the Ranger and you can not get 16" wheels on the Canyon. Plus there are no radio or cruise controls on the steering wheel available on the Canyon.

The interior room is larger in the GMC especially in the back but, the front area did feel that much roomier.

The Ranger can tow about 40% more weight.

The big difference was PRICE.........they were willing to sell it for invoice minus the rebate of $1,500. This is about $4,500 more than I paid for an equally equiped Ranger Edge 4.0L, auto, ext. cab, power equip, limited slip 3.55, step bar, tilt/cruise, towing pkg, and alum 16' wheels.

In my opinion the Ranger may be a little dated in style but, a much better value for my money.

 

I have only ridden in a Colorado, and I was less than impressed. It's definately better than the old S-10, but you would think a completely new truck should be far superior to a truck design as old as the Ranger. I thought the Colorado just felt plain cheap.

 

I thought the Edge was like an STX package. Isn't the Z-71 the equivalent of a couple of levels higher?

 

Z-71 is a suspension package, now available on 2wd. Higher ride like an Edge.
The Canyon has a base and a LS trim level I believe.