When it comes to midsize trucks, the market has plenty to offer. Whether you’re commuting around town or planning a weekend off-road adventure, these trucks have a personality all their own. Let’s explore the Toyota Tacoma and the Chevrolet Colorado and go over everything, including powertrains, interior features, safety features, and starting prices.
Overview of the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado
Both the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma have their dedicated fan base in the midsize pickup truck market. The Tacoma, with its established past and great off-road capacity, has been restyled to offer more comfort and high-tech features. Meanwhile, the Colorado comes in with a powerful 2.7-liter turbo engine and many configurations, making it a dependable workhorse with a touch of flair.
Performance and Powertrain Comparison
Let’s explore how these two trucks differ when it comes to powertrains and performance.
Engine Options and Specifications
The Tacoma offers a turbocharged 2.4-liter I-4 engine. In the entry-level SR model, this engine produces around 228 horsepower, but most of the lineup benefits from a more powerful version that pushes up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The Tacoma’s engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and you even get the option of a six-speed manual if you’re in the mood for a more engaged drive.
The Chevrolet Colorado comes standard with a turbocharged 2.7-liter I-4 engine that produces an impressive 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine is matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel economy, both trucks are pretty similar. While 2025 figures aren’t available, the 2024 Tacoma typically gets about 20-23 mpg in the city and pushes up to 23-26 mpg on the highway, depending on whether you choose two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The 2024 Colorado offers comparable figures for its rear-wheel-drive models, with roughly 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Towing Capacity and Payload
Towing and payload are key factors if you use your truck for work or heavy lifting. The Toyota Tacoma boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds and can carry a payload of 1,705 pounds. The Chevrolet Colorado has a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds — although if you choose the off-road-oriented ZR2 model, the rating drops to 6,000 pounds.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Tacoma’s recent updates include a shift to rear coil-spring suspension in some trims, which improves ground clearance and suspension and smooths out bumpy trails. The Colorado, with its ZR2 trim, doesn’t shy away from tough conditions. With 10.7 inches of ground clearance and off-road packages that include advanced suspension components, the Colorado is built to take on rocky paths and muddy trails.
Interior and Technology Features
When it comes to design and technology, there’s so much to find inside each truck.
Cabin Comfort and Design
The Toyota Tacoma’s interior has been redesigned to be simple and comfortable. Soft-touch materials, a modern dashboard, and a raised seating position ensure you won’t feel like you’re sitting too low to the ground. The Tacoma’s interior is functional and inviting, making long drives or off-road excursions much more enjoyable.
The Chevrolet Colorado’s cabin is equally modern, though it has a slightly different vibe. Its crew cab layout offers a clean, updated design. While it may have less headroom than the Tacoma, the overall feel is contemporary, with neatly arranged controls and a focus on driver convenience.
Infotainment and Connectivity Options
Both trucks keep you connected on the go. The Tacoma features an easy-to-use infotainment system that comes with either a standard 7-inch or an upgraded 12.3-inch digital display in higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so your music, maps, and messages are always within reach.
The Colorado isn’t far behind, offering an 11.3-inch touch screen as its centerpiece. It also supports wireless smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and if you like a bit more tech, a premium audio system is available.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a huge deal for anyone on the road, and both the Tacoma and Colorado have loaded up on modern safety tech. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings. The 2025 Toyota Tacoma’s safety features helped it earn the 2024 Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. While both trucks perform well in crash tests, the Tacoma has a slight advantage due to its construction and longstanding reputation for reliability.
Exterior Design and Customization
Customization is where things get really interesting. The Tacoma has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts who love to add personal touches, such as lifted suspensions, custom wheels, and unique accessories that make your ride stand out. Toyota even offers a range of official accessories so you can tailor your Tacoma to your exact needs.
The Colorado also offers customization, but its aftermarket scene isn’t quite as expansive as the Tacoma. There are still plenty of options if you’re looking to tweak your ride, especially with off-road packages and styling upgrades that make the Colorado uniquely yours.
Pricing and Value for Money
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma has starting MSRPs of $31,590-$63,735, depending on the trim and options you choose. The Chevrolet Colorado, meanwhile, costs $31,900-$49,600. While the Colorado offers impressive power and towing capacity, its pricing structure means that it can become a pricier option, especially if you’re looking at the more feature-packed trims.
Which Truck Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado depends on your truck priorities. For overall value, ease of use, and performance, the Tacoma shines. If you want a midsize truck that excels both on trails and highways, check out this capable pickup. Visit us at Longo Toyota of Prosper to experience the Tacoma in person. We’re here to help you find the ideal truck for your lifestyle.
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