2022 Toyota Tundra vs 2023 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2022 Toyota Tundra marked the beginning of its third generation, showcasing a complete redesign from its predecessors. Every component, down to the turn signal stalks, was re-engineered, giving the Tundra a more dynamic and expressive exterior. The truck featured a large hexagonal grille with various trim-matched patterns and branding, including a unique "TOYOTA" badging on the TRD Pro trim. The Tundra's body displayed a chiseled and muscular look, with pronounced wheel arches and a neatly tucked rear. Inside, the Tundra embraced premium materials and amenities, with a 14-inch touchscreen display standard on higher trims, aiming to position itself as a family adventure vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss presented a rugged off-road appearance with a factory suspension lift, box-flared fenders, and a deeply sculpted hood. The Colorado's styling was well-balanced, with hints of Camaro in the interior design. However, the base Work Truck and Trail Boss trims had a less appealing grey front fascia and a basic interior. The Trail Boss trim included a front skid plate, but the interior lacked colour contrast. The Colorado offered a range of trims with varying features, including more powerful engine options and off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for different driving needs.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra introduced two new engines, moving away from the previous 5.7-litre V8. The base i-Force engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6, delivered 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, with slightly lower figures for the SR trim. The i-Force Max hybrid powertrain combined the V6 with an electric motor, producing 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a 10-speed automatic transmission, with RWD standard on the double-cab SR grade and 4WD available on other trims. The Tundra's fuel consumption ranged from 11.8 to 12.2 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the drivetrain. The new chassis and suspension improved handling, with adaptive variable suspension and load-leveling rear-height control enhancing ride quality. The Tundra excelled in off-road conditions, especially with the TRD Off-Road package.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado featured a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine across all trims. The WT and LT trims offered 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the Trail Boss and Z71 provided 310 hp and 391 lb-ft. The ZR2 trim had a high-output version with 430 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with various 4WD systems available depending on the trim. The Trail Boss and ZR2 had suspension lifts and wider front tracks for enhanced off-road performance. The Colorado offered multiple driving modes, including a Baja mode exclusive to the ZR2. Despite its off-road prowess, the Trail Boss's fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.8 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra was available in Double Cab and CrewMax configurations, both offering five-passenger seating. The Double Cab provided 846 mm of rear seat legroom, while the CrewMax offered 1,057 mm. The Tundra featured an aluminum-reinforced composite bed, available in various lengths, with a payload capacity of up to 880 kilograms. Towing capacity reached 5,443 kilograms, with standard trailer sway control and TOW/HAUL mode. Inside, the Tundra prioritized smart storage solutions, such as a sliding tray in the front centre armrest and a conveniently placed 12-volt power tap.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss offered comfortable seating for four, with the option to squeeze a fifth passenger in the back. The test truck had standard cloth upholstery and an eight-way power driver's seat. The back seat provided adequate headroom and legroom, with standard rear air conditioning vents. The Colorado's air conditioning system performed well during hot weather. However, soft-touch surfaces were limited, and storage space was lacking. The cargo bed measured 1,186 litres, with an EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate and a StowFlex storage panel. The Mid-Position tailgate feature allowed for carrying long items.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra featured a new infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Toyota Connected services and a range of safety and convenience features. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.1-inch head-up display. Off-roaders benefited from the multi-terrain select system and multi-terrain monitor system.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado came equipped with digital instrumentation and an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology. The system included Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to various apps. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity features. Wireless charging was available, and the ZR2 trim offered a seven-speaker Bose audio system. The Colorado also featured enhanced trailer-towing technology and a network of camera views for off-roading.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. The Star Safety System and eight airbags were standard, along with LATCH connectors and child-protector rear door locks. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on most trims.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including OnStar, a Teen Driver system, and Chevy Safety Assist. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. However, the forward-collision warning system was prone to false alerts, which could be mitigated by adjusting the gap setting.