When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma have long been fixtures at the top of shopping lists. For 2023, the Colorado will receive only minor refreshments to stay competitive against the new Toyota Tacoma, which was fully redesigned for the 2022 model year. However, pricing remains an interesting point of difference between the established rivals.
A base 2023 Colorado Work Truck with rear-wheel-drive starts from $27,195 including destination fees. Moving up to the popular Z71 trim raises the price to $35,695, offering equipment like alloy wheels upgraded upholstery, and off-road targeted suspension tuning. Fully loaded, a Colorado ZR2 Bison with a 3.6-liter V6 and technology package stretches beyond $50,000.
For Toyota’s benchmark midsize, a base 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR with rear-wheel-drive carries a higher $27,770 base price. However, the equivalent mid-grade Tacoma SR5 4×4 comes in slightly below the Colorado Z71 equivalent at $35,320. The range-topping 2023 TRD Pro, similar to the ZR2 off-road special, tops out at around $49,000 fully loaded.
When comparing apples-to-apples trimmed trucks, the Tacoma holds a marginal price advantage. However, incentives and discounts tend to keep the playing field relatively even in reality. Overall, both trucks are very competitively priced in the hotly contested sector.
Comparing Size
While closely matching in utility, the Colorado and Tacoma do exhibit some variations in overall dimensions that buyers may want to consider. The Chevrolet measures 212.7 inches in overall length, 73.3 inches in width, and 69.5 inches in height. Its wheelbase spans 122.4 inches between the centers of the front and rear wheels.
The Toyota Tacoma is slightly smaller at 209.4 inches long, with a width of 72 inches even. Standing 70.7 inches tall, the Tacoma has a narrower wheelbase at 118.9 inches across. Compared to Colorado, this results in a marginally tighter turning radius and reduced three-point-turn needs in tight urban spaces.
However, the Colorado makes up for its length advantage with nearly 4 additional inches of cargo box width between the wheel wells. This translates to a more usable payload volume that some builders and haulers may appreciate. Overall interior volume is essentially identical between the cabins, though Colorado benefits from its longer wheelbase in legroom.
Engine Options
Under the hood, Chevrolet offers a standard 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine with the Colorado. Producing 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque, it provides capable acceleration despite only four cylinders. Higher models gain access to the 3.6-liter V6 producing 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet, or an available turbodiesel 3.0-liter 6-cylinder with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of low-end torque.
The Toyota Tacoma sticks with tried-and-true recipes, beginning with a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder rated at 159 horses and 180 pound-feet. Most models upgrade to a 3.5-liter V6 with 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet. For 2023, the Tacoma adds an electrified i-Force Max hybrid powertrain pairing that 3.5-liter to an electric motor for a combined output of 311 hp in the TRD Off-Road trim.
Both trucks offer diesel engines in overseas markets but not in North America currently. The Chevy also features two higher-output turbocharged versions of the 2.7-liter dubbed Turbo and Turbo HO raising power closer to the V6 levels. Overall, the Colorado presents a wider bouquet of options to match various use cases.
Engine Performance
Digging into the power figures, the stock Colorado 2.7-liter 4-cylinder edges Tacoma’s 2.7-liter with 310 horsepower versus 159. Torque also has a 48-pound-foot advantage. Even so, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road’s hybrid system closes the gap with its 311 combined output.
The Colorado Z71 and Tacoma SR5’s respectively paired 3.6-liter V6 and 3.5-liter V6 are closely matched in output as well, with the Chevy holding a 30hp/10lb-ft edge. The off-road-focused Tacoma TRD Pro stickers its normally-aspirated 3.5-liter at 278hp just like lower models instead of gaining upgrades.
The turbodiesel Colorado elevates torque capacity significantly versus either gas engine, useful for towing or hauling needs. However, fuel efficiency gains are minimal compared to the gas units in real-world testing. Overall, Colorado’s broader array of gasoline and diesel mill options gives it a powertrain flexibility advantage.
Transmission Types
In the transmission department, all Chevrolet Colorados are paired solely with the strength and refinement of an 8-speed automatic. The gearbox is designed to maximize both acceleration and efficiency from the available engines.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Tacoma offers buyers more choices – though fewer gears. Most models make do with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, with the TRD Off-Road gaining an exclusive direct-shift 8-speed automatic. The manual is a boon for enthusiasts, while the 8-speed in the hybrid model aids its performance.
The automatic Toyota transmissions do trail the Chevy in terms of gear counts, which can impact refinement and shift quality perceptions. However, both auto boxes match engines well and hold their own in terms of durability. The manual also satisfies those wanting full driver control.
0-60mph Times
Shifting the focus to measurable performance, the sprightlier Colorado engines also translate to quicker sprint times. With standard all-wheel-drive equipped, a Colorado Z71 with a 2.7-liter engine hustles to 60mph in just 6.7 seconds. Opting for the 3.6-liter V6 trims that to 6.3 seconds.
A Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4×4 with the standard 3.5-liter V6, on the other hand, needs a relatively lumbering 8.1 seconds to reach 60. The hybrid-assisted powertrain in that same TRD Off-Road model falls to 7.1 seconds thanks to its three driven wheels. Impressively, the range-topping Toyota TRD Pro 4×4 crawls to 60mph in only 6.5 seconds flat.
While not sport trucks, the Chevy’s tested advantage illustrates the added acceleration enjoyed from its livelier engine lineup on paper. The hybrid Toyota does help close the real-world performance gap, if not besting the V6 Colorado outright.
Fuel Economy
When it comes to efficiency, the midsize trucks continue trading blows depending on configuration. The EPA estimates the front-drive Colorado 2.7-liter at 22mpg city/27mpg highway and 24mpg combined. Adding all-wheel-drive drops those numbers slightly to 21/26/23mpg.
The Tacoma with the smaller 2.7-liter inline-4 and rear-wheel-drive is rated slightly better at 21/24/22mpg. But opting for the standard 3.5-liter V6 and selecting 4×4 dings the combined score to 21mpg even. The hybrid i-Force Max TRD Off-Road model does regain its efficiency with 25mpg combined, however.
The turbodiesel Colorado stands out with estimates hitting 31mpg on the highway. But its dirty nature sees the overall combined average land at 22mpg regardless – on par with the standard gas V6. For most consumers, real-world mileage will likely vary close to the EPA figures between the trucks.
So in summary – both midsize trucks deliver around 21-25mpg depending on the powertrain and drivetrain. The Tacoma edges ahead slightly with its 4-cylinder, while the diesel Colorado boasts the best potential highway efficiency.
Cargo & Towing Capacity
When hauling gear rather than gas, the Colorado and Tacoma continue their back and forth. The Chevrolet’s larger 5-foot bed provides 68.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. Extended and crew cabs both retain that figure.
Behind the Toyota’s smaller 5-foot bed are 60.5 cubic feet at most. Opting for the smaller Access Cab drops this to 49.3 cubic feet – more than a full circuit board short of the midsize norm.
However, towing where the trucks differ. The standard Colorado can pull 7,700 pounds, while V6 models gain 3,500 or 3,650 pounds respectively. Even the optional diesel Colorado peaks at an adequate 7,700 pounds.
By contrast, Tacoma’s numbers top out much lower. The base 4-cylinder restricts towing to just 3,500 pounds. V6 models improve that to 6,400 or 6,800 pounds depending. Only the TRD Off-Road hybrid hits 7,000 pounds.
So for seriously hauling gear or trailers, the stronger Colorado engines and chassis give it a clear heavy-duty advantage over the Tacoma in most standard and high-trim forms.
Interior Legroom & Seating
Inside the cabs, both Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma comfortably seat 5 adults with relative leg and headroom. Beginning front and center, driver’s seats in both offer 6-way manual adjustment on base models.
Upgrades unlock 8-way and even 10-way power controls including lumbar and thigh extensions for long stints behind the wheel. Front passenger seats mirror those adjustments. Second-row seats similarly provide good bolstering and space.
Legroom measurements find 41.3 inches up front in regular cab Colorados, with rear space extending to 37.5 inches – best in its class. Double Cab and Crew Cab trims trim that slightly but still outpace the Tacoma.
The Toyota provides a respectable 40 inches up front, dipping to 34.4 inches in the back in the standard Access Cab. CrewMax extended cabs offer 1 more inch front and rear. So while seats feel wholly sufficient, the Colorado cabin space ekes out a minor edge.
Headroom proves ample up to over 40 inches front and rear across both. Cargo-optimized rear seats in access cabs fold up for storing bigger gear too. Overall, comfort proves comparable – just incrementally roomier in the Chevrolet.
Dashboard & Controls
Stepping behind the steering wheels, the Colorado and Tacoma interiors take on different styles and ergonomic approaches for 2023. Chevrolet kept things familiar with an 8-inch infotainment screen standard, wrapped in a simplified dashboard layout.
Hard buttons for core functions help avoid menu diving. Base trucks have a standard 7-inch digital gauge cluster, while higher trims gain a 12-inch customizable screen with onboard navigation in place of physical dials. Materials quality has increased noticeably versus predecessors too.
Toyota’s redesign brought a larger 10-inch touchscreen standard, flanked by digital gauges in a high-tech layered dashboard. Form follows function with clearly labeled shortcut keys while faux-stitching details try to up perceived luxury.
Physical knobs for climate remain below. However, some complain of over-reliance on the central touchscreen that can distract. Both interiors appear sharp and feel well assembled, just with differing control priorities between brands.
Infotainment Systems
The infotainment systems at the heart of each interior also take distinct approaches. Chevrolet’s standard system centers on an 8-inch touchscreen running the latest Chevrolet Infotainment 3 software with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard.
Navigation comes only on higher trims and packages. Audio quality impresses from an 8-speaker Bose system. Wireless device charging and 4G LTE WiFi hotspot capability keep devices juiced on the go too. Response times prove zippy overall.
Going big or optionally upgrading, Toyota fits all Tacomas with a standard 10.1-inch touchscreen running its latest Entune 3.0 interface with standard navigation across all models. JBL premium audio ups speaker counts.
The system delivers clearer graphics and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, plus Amazon Alexa integration. Users lament some sluggish system reactions, however. Dual USB ports back here charge devices at lower speeds. Customizable home screens add flair.
When it comes to tech, the Toyotas deliver a richer infotainment experience right out of the gate while Chevys require upgrades. However, Ford’s options feel lighter and snappier overall.
Interior Amenities
Beyond core functionality, many other interior features and storage solutions distinguish the midsize trucks. Beginning up front, both provide standard single-zone climate control and include rear vents for all passengers.
Outside of rubberized-trimmed storage trays under each seat, Colorado crews benefit from a large under-floor armrest box. Gloveboxes stay modestly sized. Center consoles offer USB ports and 12-volt outlets as needed.
The Tacoma takes a more thoughtfully integrated approach, with sliding rear-seat under-floor bins, multi-level console box organization, and dual front seatback pockets. Gloveboxes feel deeper too. Carbon-trim styles uplift some trims.
Optional features like power-sliding rear windows, and heated and ventilated massage front seats expand comfort. Cold-weather packages include heated steering wheels and rear seats as well as higher trims.
In summary, though roomy, Colorado feels more spartan versus the Toyota’s clever cubbies and features – especially with options factored in. Extra storage pays dividends for gear-hauling lives.
Exterior Styling Differences
On the road, Colorado and Tacoma take divergent paths regarding exterior styling for better or worse depending upon tastes. The 2023 Chevrolet sticks faithfully to its “Dynamic” design language introduced years ago, refined subtly but conservatively overall.
Chiseled body lines flow gracefully from the cab to the cargo bed. Front ends evolve the aggressive C-shaped grille and multi-tiered LED headlights. Wheels reach 17, 18, or 20 inches depending. Mud-splattered fascias differentiate Z71 and ZR2 trims for trails.
By contrast, the redesigned 2022 Toyota Tacoma sports a much boxier, retro-inspired look harkening to the older FJ series. Chiseled fenders flow into a tall grille and complex projector headlights. Wheels stay 16 or 17 inches round. Its own TRD Off-Road and Pro trims gain color pops.
Both trucks appear fresh on the road despite ongoing evolutions. The Chevy remains the sleeker style for modern drivers, while the Toyota plays on wider brand nostalgia through its rugged yet familiar bodywork.
Suspension & Ride Quality
When it comes to on-pavement dynamics, the Colorado and Tacoma continue their point-counterpoint balance. Standard Colorado models ride on an independent double-wishbone suspension fully disconnecting solid rear axles. TRD models add Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers.
Tuned for agility more than plushness, it controls body roll admirably yet absorbs bumps capably. The ZR2 model stands out with its advanced Multimedia coil-over shocks and DSSV sensors for supreme high-speed off-road precision.
By contrast, the Toyota relies primarily on a traditional torsion beam setup in the back across the lineup for easier repairs and affordability. While capable, it can’t match Colorado’s control. TRD Pro and Off-Road models do gain FOX Internal Bypass shocks and rear coil springs for improved compliance.
On-road, the Chevrolet exhibits the edge in handling balance and composure thanks to its sophisticated multilink arms. Cargo won’t shift as readily either. However, the Tacoma remains comfortable cruising everyday roads well also.
Off-Road Capability
Off-pavement is where these trucks truly strut their stuff, with both designed for serious 4×4 adventures. The standard Colorado controls with a 2-speed transfer case and standard G80 automatic locking rear differential. Selectable terrain modes aid various surfaces.
The Z71 upgrade locks both the front and rear diffs for maximal traction. Its off-road suspension enhances articulation. But it’s the range-topping ZR2 Bison that puts Colorado over the top with its rugged Multimatic spool-valve shocks, aggressive Goodyear Wrangler tires, front e-locker, and more.
Meanwhile, the Toyota TRD Pro leads its brand into battles with an electronic rear locker, FOX shocks, and similar BF Goodrich K02 tires. Off-road and Trail trims gain rear lockers, crawl control, and multi-terrain selection too. Approach/departure/breakover/ground clearance all prove highly competitive class leaders.
Mountain or desert, both midsize trucks excel leaving the pavement behind. The Tacoma and Colorado ZR2 models stand among the most capable stock 4x4s anywhere period.
Standard Safety Tech
Moving inside, driver assistance features continue proliferating even standard across affordable trucks. The base 2023 Chevrolet Colorado comes equipped with forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams.
Stepping up, higher trims include blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. A limited rear camera view rounds out the essentials. Available packages like Driver Confidence add adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic emergency braking on the highway too for less interventionist semi-autonomy.
For Toyota, all Tacomas arrive with standard rear parking sensors, rear cameras, pedestrian warning alerts, and lane tracing steering with limited cruise capabilities. Mid-grade Tacomas add blind spot monitoring.
TRD models bump that up to include pre-collision warning, full adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, and rear cross-traffic braking. Both provide peace of mind on roads thoroughly, just through slightly differing standard/optional approaches between brands.
Available Safety Features
In terms of range-topping driver assistance tech, both midsize trucks can be optioned to largely match full-line luxury SUVs depending on packaging. For example, the Z71 Colorado offers an available bundle with enhanced automatic braking, evasive steering assist, blind spot zones expanded to include traffic approaching at faster rates, and more intuitive forward-collision warnings with pedestrian and cyclist detection working continuously.
Meanwhile, Toyota bundles its similarly robust tech into the Toyota Safety Sense P package as an available option across all Tacoma lineups. It brings improvements like intersection turning assistance, stop sign recognition with vehicle braking, lane centering with adjustable levels of intervention adaptive cruise control functioning down to 0mph fully automated self-driving in limited conditions.
Such high-tech, near-autonomous driver support packages represent the cutting edges for these work trucks – and still put them among the safest vehicles on the road when fully optioned out in their classes.
Crash Test Ratings
Backing up the safe reputations substantively, both midsize trucks earn the industry’s top safety accolades across the board from overseeing agencies. From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado earns an overall 5-star rating.
Its individual crash test results find the truck scoring 5 stars for frontal, side, rollover, and overall ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards its top “Good” rating in all evaluated categories too like small overlap front, moderate overlap, and roof strength tests.
For Toyota’s part, the 2023 Tacoma equally attracts comprehensive top ratings. It too secures a perfect overall 5-star rating from the NHTSA along with 5-star frontal, side, and rollover scores. IIHS testing similarly grants its sought-after ratings all around for occupant protection.
Both trucks prove highly competent safety-wise to protect passengers to the max in any potential accident scenarios on- or off-road thanks to evolution. Owners feel secure and assured by the repeat rating results.
Basic Warranty Coverage
When initially purchasing, Chevrolet backs the 2023 Colorado lineup with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty on the entire vehicle. This protects against defects in materials and workmanship from the manufacturer.
A 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty specifically covers the engine, transmission, and drive systems during that period as well. Roadside assistance runs concurrently for 5 years/60,000 miles of towing if the truck breaks down.
Comparatively, Toyota’s new vehicle limited warranty on the 2023 Tacoma spans slightly longer at 3 years or 36,000 miles. However, its 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty matches precisely what’s offered by Chevrolet. Toyota’s roadside runs the same length too.
So while warranty periods align, Chevrolet covers the whole truck a bit longer initially. However, both inspire confidence from owners with ample protection including standards.
Powertrain Warranty
Zooming in, the individual powertrain warranties between each brand also differ marginally:
- Chevrolet Colorado: 5 years/60,000 miles (engine, transmission, drive axle)
- Toyota Tacoma: 5 years/60,000 miles (engine, transmission, drive shaft, axles, and rear differential)
Additionally, Tacoma’s hybrid components receive their dedicated coverage:
- i-Force MAX hybrid system: 8 years/100,000 miles
So while the standard warranties match length, Toyota explicitly lists more driveline parts like drive shafts and axles in addition to prolonging hybrid coverage well past basic thresholds. Both prove very competitive overall though.
Hybrid Component Warranty
Speaking specifically to the Toyota Tacoma hybrid system, its added electric motors, battery packs, and power electronics receive extended protection as follows:
- Hybrid-related components: 8 years/100,000 miles
- HV battery: 10 years/150,000 miles
- Corrosion perforation: 5 years unlimited miles
This backs the hybrid technology further than any gas or diesel components, assuring early adopters of the engineering for the long haul. No other midsize truck presently offers such extensive electrified component coverage.
Complimentary Maintenance
On the maintenance side, both automakers aim to keep costs reasonable beyond initial purchasing. Toyota leads by including two years or 25,000 miles of no-cost scheduled care visits on new Tacomas, covering standard inspections, fluid/filter changes, and the like.
Chevrolet brings its value by building three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance into the base prices of 2023 Colorados. While one year shorter, it also relieves owners of standard service costs in critical early ownership.
Opting for brands’ premium care programs like Chevrolet Complete Care or Toyota Care can extend perks further still for multi-year peace of mind. So both manufacturers invest heavily in assuring total cost predictability and care long-term.
Roadside Assistance
Matching their powertrain warranty coverage terms, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma include matching 5-year/60,000-mile plans for roadside assistance via OnStar and Toyota Roadside Assistance respectively.
This means 24/7 help including things like towing, lockout service, fuel delivery, and more – at no charge. Coverage spans the contiguous US and Canada. The peace of mind encourages taking the trucks further off the beaten path knowing quick help is just a call away.
Resale Values
When planning long-term ownership, one major advantage Toyota Tacoma holds over most rivals like Colorado is projected strong retained value over time. Industry analysts expect the Tacoma to depreciate merely 25-35% of MSRP after 3-5 years of ownership.
By contrast, a 3-5-year-old Chevrolet Colorado can be projected to lose roughly 35-45% of its original worth on the private resale market. Part of this relates to Toyota’s reputation for near-bulletproof reliability and demand from off-road crowds keeping used Tacomas cherished.
Of course, taking especially good care of either and optioning them well can help maximize personal resale potential versus averages. But the Tacoma boasts a tangible statistically better long bet for worth holding onto dollars.
Common Problems
Peeling back reported issues, most Colorado and Tacoma owners continue enjoying decades of proven mechanical durability from the brand. Minor niggles sometimes arise, but serious flaws prove exceedingly rare. Some areas warrant routine vigilance:
- Colorado: Potential for oil consumption on 2.8L diesel (GM TSB issued), infotainment/Bluetooth glitches, body rust-prone areas.
- Tacoma: Occasional transmission shudder complaints, minor oil leaks, premature brake pad wear issues dependent on roads/styles addressed under warranty typically.
Most all can be avoided with diligent maintenance, especially fluid flushes. Recall rates stay very low as well. Ultimately, both prove highly dependable trucks inside and out for the daily grind over long hauls statistically.
Reliability Ratings
Backing reputations for longevity substantively, major owner satisfaction surveys continue ranking both near the pinnacle annually:
- J.D. Power Initial Quality Studies (first 90 days):
Chevy Colorado #2 out of 10 Midsize Pickups (190 PP100)
Toyota Tacoma #3 (209 PP100)
- Consumer Reports Brand Reliability Rankings:
Chevrolet #9 out of 26 brands
Toyota #1 overall
- Car Complaints Historical Reliability Rankings:
Chevrolet Colorado #1 out of 10 Midsize trucks
Toyota Tacoma #2
So while minor quirks may intrude eventually on any vehicle, statistical analysis cements both trucks as stellar long-term keepers on par with premium luxury nameplates. Owners feel assured of dependable transport.
Dealer Network
Navigating needs beyond the drives themselves, Chevrolet and Toyota boast dealer support networks unmatched by niche brands. Their extensive coverage in communities across America and Canada provides accessibility wherever adventures may roam:
- Chevrolet: Approximately 3,800 total US/Canada dealers
- Toyota: Roughly 2,300 US/Canada dealerships
Whether routine maintenance or unforeseen repairs away from home, finding certified technicians should remain easy wherever spare parts also accessibly flow through. Satisfying customer service also feels reasonably assured at any registered location.
This allows exploring further off pavement knowing help isn’t far if trouble does occur on the trail or highway. Comprehensive networks grant ownership peace of mind.
TRD Pro Comparisons
Pushing capability to extremes, Toyota’s TRD Pro series comprises the brand’s premier off-road variants. For the Tacoma, this means Fox Internal Bypass shocks with reinforced upper mounts, 1.1-inch custom FOX coilovers, a 1/4-inch TRD Pro front skid plate, and more.
Aggressive Michelin pavement and all-terrain tires paired with the locking rear diff and Multi-Terrain Select provide supreme traction. The exclusive Army Green or Inferno exterior paints and bronze BBS wheels signal prowess.
Though the Colorado also offers factory-built off-road specials, the closest rival comes in the form of the range-topping ZR2 Bison. Notable standard features include Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, front e-lockers, beefier off-road tires, and the like.
In the end, either one stands among the most capable production midsize 4x4s ever made – simply through differing brand executions of their no-holds-barred off-road DNAs at the highest levels.
ZR2 Comparisons
Delving deeper, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 stands alone as the brand’s dedicated off-pavement specialist within its class. Highlights distinguishing it include:
- Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers for ultimate wheel articulation
- Front e-locker for maximum low-traction control
- 3.5 inches of front suspension lift over standard Colorado
- 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires
- UltraShield bed lining and bash plates
Modeled after the larger Silverado ZR2 sibling, it delivers race-proven Bilstein shocks, and front and rear electronic limited-slip differentials for unstoppable 4×4 handling anywhere rugged trails may lead.
No other stock truck can compete with its suspension technology or abilities right from the factory floor – not even the capable Tacoma TRD models. It represents an elite class of one.
Trail Boss Comparison
Slotted just below the ZR2 for daily drivers wanting serious play too stands the Chevy Colorado Trail Boss. This adds:
- Off-road suspension tuned by Multimatic for 2-inch added travel
- Skid plates and Rancho shocks for rugged adventures
- All-terrain tires and unique front fascia/hood
- Terrain mode with downhill assist control
While not at the ZR2’s extreme level, it offers well-rounded upgrades beyond a regular Z71 for serious rock crawling and mud-plowing weekends. The available Duramax diesel suits towing gear too on extracurriculars.
Driver Comfort Differences
Regarding pilot ergonomics, the Colorado and Tacoma trend closely yet take divergent approaches. Standard seats in both prove comfortable for daily drives, though the Toyota seats feel a bit softer and more contoured from the get-go.
Higher trims allow for adding aesthetic contrast stitching, power lumbar/bolster adjustments, and such. The Toyota also offers an available ventilated leather option for sweltering days. Head and legroom feel generous in either.
A key difference emerges in the steering feel. The Colorado adopts a comfortable yet heftier electrically-assisted setup, while the Tacoma leans towards a looser, lighter manually adjusted steering rack that some describe as “vague.”
Toyota also locates audio/cruise buttons awkwardly on the wheel versus Chevy’s simplified center-stack controls. But both prove highly livable long-term thanks to front-row ergonomics optimized for task-focused utilitarian comfort.
Cargo Versatility
When hauling payloads ranging from muddy gear to building materials, both Colorado and Tacoma flex their flexible utility:
- Bed sizes are similar at 5 or 6 feet depending, but Colorado offers nearly 4 inches more box width
- Retractable bed covers, tonneau covers and hard tri-fold tonneaus expand usability options
- Rear seats in access cabs fold up vertically, while extended cab/crew cab 60/40 seats lay flat
- Optional bed extenders, bed rails, bed partitions, and storage systems maximize space
So whether carrying bulky items, pets, or gear for multiple passengers, clever solutions allow both trucks to configure space for nearly any conceivable task. Cargo talents prove highly versatile.
Tech Package Options
As for available premium technology bundles, Chevrolet and Toyota each offer their own branded suites for enhanced infotainment experiences:
- The Chevrolet Infotainment Package adds Bose audio, power-fold mirrors, HD radio, and more
- Chevrolet Audio Package brings rear Bluetooth and navigation system upgrades
- Toyota Audio Plus includes navigation, premium audio, SiriusXM, and more
- Toyota Technology Package packs in JBL speakers, navigation, and extra driver assists
The range-topping options largely match each other feature-for-feature to keep high-end drivers engaged. Combining such packages helps maximize in-cabin enjoyment on long trips.
Exterior Color Choices
Turning to personalization, both trucks grant freedom of expression through diverse factory and custom exterior hues:
- Colorado: Over a dozen shades from Summit White to Jet Black to Red Hot plus thousands via the Chevy accessory catalog
- Tacoma: Dozens from Super White to Midnight Black to Army Green plus unique heritage “Tapestry” woven color options
- Both also offer rugged specialized shades like Mojave Sand solely for Z71/Off Road/TRD trims
This variety spectrum allows truly making either truck one’s canvas however their style may dictate. Wide palettes fuel individuality on trails and roads.
Special Editions
Shifting the focus to limited-production special variants, brand enthusiasts can further differentiate these trucks through exclusive models:
- Colorado ZR2 RockRunner (trail-focused with fox shocks, front locker)
- Colorado Novak 40th Limited (retro styling package honoring prior generations)
- Tacoma “Sharpie” TRD Pro Concept (dotted graphics paying homage to iconic Sharpies)
- Tacoma Trail Edition (trail-tuned, Yakima add-ons geared for overlanding)
While niche, such special-run trucks tap into the rich heritage and off-road subcultures within each brand’s identities – drawing enthusiasts seeking truly rare statements.
Target Customer
Analyzing who each truck typically draws demographically speaking, common profiles tend to include:
Colorado: Younger buyers (avg. 50 y/o male) seeking agile yet rugged daily drivers. Value functional tech upgrades highly for daily/weekend use balance.
Tacoma: Slightly older (52 y/o), more established professionals. Demand the highest reliability for demanding job sites/weekend adventures. Investment longevity is a top priority.
Both appeal widely to independent contractors, tradesmen, and outdoorsy families alike who need serious 4×4 workhorses yet still commute every day. Lifestyle-oriented buyers form each truck’s heart.
Best Application
Assessing where each truck shines situationally:
Colorado excels as a daily driver-focused truck tackling both pavement and occasional dirt trails capably on weekends while still being reasonably nimble commuting.
Tacoma stands out best for enthusiastic off-road fans dragging gear into remote trails far beyond the grid regularly who demand maximum durability and capability from bone-stock underpinnings long-term without worry.
For casual dirt use mixed with professional tasks, both prove ideal midsize trucks overall. It comes down more to individual priorities and intended use environments/frequencies.
Initial Quality
Looking specifically at the earliest ownership period according to J.D. Power’s 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Study of new vehicles, the midsize trucks once again find themselves near the head of their class:
- Chevrolet Colorado ranks #2 out of 10 midsize trucks with a score of 138 PP100
- Toyota Tacoma comes in #4 out of the segment at 146 PP100
So while small glitches may still intrude, statistically both trucks impress from day one in how few problems owners experienced in the vital first 90 days of ownership according to large-scale surveying.
Driver Engagement
Splitting hairs at the highest levels of performance-focused driving enjoyment, some distinctions emerge:
Colorado feels nimbler changing lines and corners thanks to a precise steering rack. Higher trims gain adaptive dampers enhancing precision. Turbo engines add thrill.
Tacoma rides comfortably on-road yet the steering lacks feedback. But optimized TRD Pro/Off-Road suspensions carve trails superbly. Iconic V6 rewards spirited runs off the pavement.
Both connect occupants wholly to the driving experience just in subtly divergent manners depending on the intended environments – road or dirt. Dynamic talents suit varied enthusiast mentalities.
Off-Road Rigging
When outfitting for serious adventure, aftermarket manufacturers flock to these trucks. Both support:
-Suspension/lift kit levels from major names like Old Man Emu, Bilstien, Kings, and Fox to maximize articulation
-Winches, bumpers, and skid plates from brands like ARB, SSO, and Wright Equipment to endure hardcore terrain
-Wheels/tires from names like Fuel, Method, and BFG spanning 35″+ sizes and a wide variety of terrain-specific rubber
-Interior/exterior accessories from RetraX, Rola, Yakima, and Prinsu for gear mounting and bold looks
Aftermarket development remains deep thanks to loyal communities, allowing complete transformation into trail-conquering machines.
Cosmetic Enhancement
Of course, personal style matters off-road too. Common visually minded mods to either truck include:
-Custom bumpers/sliders/bullbars from names like CBI, AMP Research, Steelcraft
-LED light upgrades including off-road specific bar and pod solutions
-Snorkel intakes to keep engines breathing on deepest wades
-Roof racks, ladder systems, and roof tents for expedition-style adventures
-Wraps/decals, mud flaps, trim accents, hood scoops to stand out
Options stretch endlessly here so owners can craft uniquely their statement pieces wherever trails may roam.
Customization
Tailoring trucks down to tailored details, aftermarket support flourishes through specialty players:
-Go Rhino produces thousands of custom interior/exterior trim accessories
-Sherman’s allows fully customized graphics, logos, paint schemes
-Hidden Hitch manufactures concealable fifth-wheel/gooseneck packages
-Carbinext fabricates carbon fiber and weight
