This comprehensive comparison of the Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD explores their performance, features, and value to help you choose the perfect off-road companion.
By focusing on their off-road prowess, we aim to guide adventure seekers toward the ideal truck for 2025 trails.
Why Midsize Trucks Excel Off-Road
Midsize trucks offer a unique balance of maneuverability and power, making them ideal for off-road adventures.
Unlike larger full-size trucks, which can struggle on tight trails, midsize models navigate narrow paths, rocky terrains, and steep inclines with ease.
Manufacturers have invested heavily in off-road trims, equipping these trucks with advanced suspensions, all-terrain tires, and specialized technologies.
The Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD showcase these advancements, delivering exceptional performance for thrill-seekers.
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: The Off-Road Powerhouse
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.
This high-torque engine excels at low-end power, perfect for crawling over rocks or powering through sand.
An eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth power delivery across diverse terrains.
Front and rear locking differentials, as detailed in this 2025 Chevrolet Colorado Review, provide superior traction when wheels lose grip, giving the ZR2 an edge in extreme conditions.
Suspension and Off-Road Features
The Colorado ZR2 features Multimatic DSSV dampers, a technology borrowed from high-performance vehicles, offering adaptability for both highway comfort and off-road control.
The ZR2 Bison variant, equipped with 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, boasts a 10.7-inch ground clearance, a 38.2-degree approach angle, a 26.9-degree breakover angle, and a 26-degree departure angle.
AEV-designed skid plates and beadlock-capable wheels enhance durability, as highlighted in this Colorado ZR2 Desert Review, making it ideal for desert trails.
These features position the ZR2 as a leader among the Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD.
Interior and Technology
The Colorado ZR2’s cabin combines durability with refinement, featuring an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
An Off-Road Performance app provides real-time data on altitude, GPS, pitch, roll, and tire pressure, aiding navigation on tough trails.
Multiple camera views, including an underbody camera, improve visibility during technical off-roading.
The interior is functional, with durable materials suited for rugged adventures.
Towing and Payload
With a class-leading towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, the Colorado ZR2 outperforms most midsize competitors.
Its payload capacity of 1,084 pounds supports overlanding gear, complemented by a spray-in bedliner and robust cargo management system.
Toyota Tacoma TRD: The Off-Road Icon
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro feature a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
The TRD Pro offers an optional i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, boosting output to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque for superior low-end grunt.
This hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined, outpacing the Colorado’s 16 mpg.
An eight-speed automatic (or optional six-speed manual) provides flexibility, as noted in this Tacoma TRD Pro vs. Colorado ZR2 Bison comparison.
Suspension and Off-Road Features
The Tacoma TRD Off-Road comes with 32-inch BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tires and 46-mm Bilstein monotube dampers for enhanced heat dissipation.
The TRD Pro upgrades to Fox QS3 adjustable dampers and forged aluminum control arms, optimizing articulation.
A standard electronically lockable rear differential and optional front anti-roll bar disconnect (standard on TRD Pro) improve traction on uneven terrain.
Multi-terrain select and crawl control systems simplify low-speed off-roading, allowing drivers to focus on steering.
With a 33.8-degree approach angle, 23.5-degree breakover angle, and 25.7-degree departure angle, the Tacoma excels in most off-road scenarios.
Interior and Technology
The Tacoma’s interior features a modern 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims, offering crisp graphics and intuitive controls.
Toyota Safety Sense includes pre-collision warnings, lane departure alerts, and adaptive cruise control for added safety.
The cabin provides ample storage and supportive seats, though rear legroom is tighter than the Colorado’s.
A composite bed with deck rails and movable cleats ensures versatile cargo management.
Towing and Payload
The Tacoma TRD Off-Road tows up to 6,500 pounds (6,400 with the manual), slightly less than the Colorado.
Its 1,200-pound payload capacity surpasses the ZR2, ideal for carrying camping gear.
Bed options of 5 or 6 feet add flexibility for overlanders.
Head-to-Head: Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD
Off-Road Performance
When comparing the Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD, off-road capability is the key focus.
The Colorado ZR2’s front and rear locking differentials provide unmatched traction in mud or sand.
Its Multimatic DSSV dampers excel in high-speed desert runs and technical rock crawling, as tested in this Midsize Truck Off-Road Test.
The ZR2 Bison’s 35-inch tires and skid plates make it a beast in extreme conditions.
The Tacoma TRD counters with crawl control and multi-terrain select, simplifying off-roading for novices.
Its hybrid TRD Pro variant delivers explosive torque, while the anti-roll bar disconnect enhances articulation.
The Colorado edges out in extreme scenarios, but the Tacoma’s systems are more user-friendly.
On-Road Comfort and Handling
The Colorado ZR2 offers a smoother on-road ride due to its advanced dampers and refined suspension tuning.
Its steering is precise, and braking feels linear, making it ideal for daily driving.
The Tacoma TRD’s stiffer suspension can feel harsh on rough pavement, though its lighter steering adds agility.
The hybrid’s efficiency is a major plus for long trips, as noted in this Colorado ZR2 Bison vs. Tacoma TRD Pro pricing comparison.
Comparison Table: Colorado ZR2 vs. Tacoma TRD
| Feature | Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 | Toyota Tacoma TRD (Off-Road/Pro) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $48,395 (Bison: $61,490) | $43,295 (Pro: $65,395) |
| Engine | 2.7L Turbo (310 hp, 430 lb-ft) | 2.4L Turbo (278 hp, 317 lb-ft; Hybrid: 326 hp, 465 lb-ft) |
| Tires | 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler (Bison) | 32-inch BFGoodrich (Off-Road); 33-inch (Pro) |
| Suspension | Multimatic DSSV Dampers | Bilstein (Off-Road); Fox QS3 (Pro) |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs | 6,500 lbs (6,400 lbs manual) |
| Payload Capacity | 1,084 lbs | 1,200 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | 10.7 inches (Bison) | 9.4 inches (Off-Road); 11 inches (Pro) |
| Key Off-Road Tech | Front/rear locking differentials, underbody camera | Crawl control, anti-roll bar disconnect |
| Fuel Economy | 16 mpg combined | 24 mpg combined (hybrid) |
Real-World Use Cases for Colorado ZR2 and Tacoma TRD
Rock Crawling
The Colorado ZR2’s front and rear locking differentials and high ground clearance make it ideal for technical rock crawling, as tested in this Colorado ZR2 Desert Review.
Its underbody camera helps navigate obstacles with precision.
The Tacoma TRD’s crawl control simplifies low-speed rock crawling, making it accessible for less experienced drivers.
Its anti-roll bar disconnect enhances wheel articulation on uneven surfaces.
Overlanding
The Tacoma TRD’s 1,200-pound payload and optional 6-foot bed are perfect for carrying camping gear, as noted in this Tacoma TRD Pro vs. Colorado ZR2 Bison test.
Its hybrid efficiency extends range for long trips.
The Colorado ZR2’s 7,700-pound towing capacity allows it to haul trailers or small campers, ideal for extended overlanding adventures.
Desert Running
The Colorado ZR2 Bison’s 35-inch tires and Multimatic DSSV dampers excel in high-speed desert runs, offering stability and control.
The Tacoma TRD Pro’s Fox QS3 dampers and hybrid torque provide a responsive, agile experience in sandy conditions, as seen in this Midsize Truck Off-Road Test.
What Owners Say About Colorado ZR2 and Tacoma TRD
Colorado ZR2 owners praise its towing capacity and smooth highway ride, with many highlighting its dominance in technical trails, as noted in this 2025 Chevrolet Colorado Review.
Some users note higher maintenance costs compared to Toyota.
Tacoma TRD owners love its reliability and hybrid efficiency, with the TRD Pro’s crawl control earning high marks for ease of use, as seen in this Colorado ZR2 Bison vs. Tacoma TRD Pro.
However, some find the rear seat cramped for long trips.
Interior and Technology
The Tacoma’s modern interior and larger touchscreen appeal to tech enthusiasts.
Its safety suite is comprehensive, enhancing on- and off-road confidence.
The Colorado’s Google-backed infotainment and off-road apps, like pitch and roll data, cater to trail-focused drivers.
Both cabins are durable, but the Tacoma’s materials feel slightly more upscale.
Pricing and Value
Pricing for the Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD varies.
The Colorado ZR2 starts at $48,395, with the Bison package reaching $61,490.
The Tacoma TRD Off-Road begins at $43,295, topping out at $47,480, while the TRD Pro starts at $65,395.
The Tacoma’s lower base price and hybrid efficiency offer better value, while the Colorado’s towing and hardware appeal to hardcore off-roaders.
Which Truck Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD hinges on your needs.
The Colorado ZR2 is ideal for those prioritizing extreme off-road capability, thanks to its locking differentials and advanced dampers.
Its towing capacity and on-road refinement add versatility.
The Tacoma TRD offers fuel efficiency, user-friendly off-road tech, and a lower starting price, making it accessible for many.
The TRD Pro’s hybrid powertrain appeals to those seeking modern performance.
The Tacoma’s reliability and resale value give it an edge for long-term ownership.
What makes the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 stand out for off-roading?
The Colorado ZR2’s Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear locking differentials, and 35-inch tires (on the Bison variant) provide exceptional traction and adaptability for extreme terrains like rocky trails or desert dunes.
Is the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro’s hybrid powertrain worth it?
The Tacoma TRD Pro’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid offers 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, plus 24 mpg combined, making it ideal for those prioritizing power and fuel efficiency for long off-road trips.
Which truck is better for novice off-roaders?
The Tacoma TRD’s crawl control and multi-terrain select systems simplify low-speed off-roading, making it more beginner-friendly compared to the Colorado ZR2’s technical setup.
Conclusion
The Best Midsize Trucks for Off-Roading in 2025: Colorado ZR2 vs Tacoma TRD redefine midsize off-road excellence.
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 delivers raw power and extreme capability for hardcore adventurers.
The Toyota Tacoma TRD blends innovative tech, hybrid efficiency, and proven durability.
Your choice depends on whether you value raw prowess (Colorado ZR2) or a balanced, reliable package (Tacoma TRD).
Test-drive both to find the best fit for your 2025 off-road adventures.