2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2024 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma presented itself as a robust yet compact alternative to larger trucks like the Ford F-150 or Toyota Tundra. Its design was assertive, with an upright grille and tall bed that gave it a substantial appearance without the bulk of a full-size pickup. The Tacoma was available in a variety of trims, including the TRD Pro, which we tested in a striking Solar Octane paint. This model was equipped with off-road features such as underbody skid pads, a TRD-tuned suspension, and a unique grille, making it a standout choice for those seeking a rugged yet stylish vehicle. Inside, the Tacoma offered a range of interior options, from basic fabric to leather-trimmed upholstery, with our TRD Pro featuring heated front seats and all-weather floor mats.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado embraced a bold, futuristic design inspired by the Camaro, with rakish headlights and a sharply angled grille. The interior followed suit with a clean, horizontal dashboard layout and Camaro-inspired circular climate control vents. The Colorado was available in several trims, including the off-road-focused ZR2 Bison, which we tested. This model featured unique bodywork, AEV-designed wheels, and extensive off-road protection. The interior was comfortable, with a car-like seating position and ample front-row space, although the second-row legroom was tight. The Colorado's bed was practical, with larger steps in the rear bumper for easier access, although the ZR2 Bison's spare tire placement reduced usable bed space.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While this engine provided decent acceleration, it wasn't particularly quick, and the truck's off-road suspension contributed to a tendency to wander on paved roads. The Tacoma's fuel economy was average for its class, with estimates of 13.0 L/100 km in the city and 10.5 on the highway. Our TRD Pro model, tested in winter conditions, delivered a less impressive 14.4 L/100 km.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado offered two turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engines. The base version produced 237 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the Turbo Max version delivered 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing solid low-end power and responsive acceleration. The Colorado's maximum towing capacity was 3,492 kilograms, with a payload capacity of 775 kilograms. The ZR2 Bison, designed for off-road capability, featured Multimatic DSSV dampers for exceptional shock absorption and a well-rounded on-road driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offered two cab styles: the access cab with clamshell doors and a 1,872-millimetre bed, and the double cab with a choice of bed lengths. The access cab's rear seats were tight and uncomfortable, while the double cab provided easier entry and improved seat quality. The front seats offered ample cubby space and legroom, although the steering wheel's limited extension posed a challenge for taller drivers. The Tacoma's bed was spacious enough for gear, groceries, and skis.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado was available in a single body style: a four-door quad cab with a 1,567-millimetre bed. The car-like seating position provided comfort for long trips, with plenty of front-row space. However, the second-row legroom was tight, especially for taller passengers. The Colorado's bed featured high walls and a floor, making loading more challenging, but the larger rear bumper steps improved access. The ZR2 Bison's spare tire placement in the bed reduced usable space.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma featured a straightforward infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While the interface was intuitive, it felt outdated compared to competitors. Higher trims offered wireless charging and a premium JBL audio system, but the Tacoma lacked some of the advanced tech found in rival trucks.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado boasted an 11.3-inch touchscreen with a logical layout and hard-button controls. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital home button, and a volume dial for ease of use. The Colorado also featured an 11-inch digital instrument panel, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio. Higher trims added wireless charging, additional USB ports, and wall-style power outlets, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma came with Toyota Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The TRD Pro added blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors, but the Tacoma lacked more advanced features like lane-keeping assist. It received four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with top marks in side-impact tests but not in frontal crash or rollover tests.

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The LT Convenience Package III added reverse automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The Colorado earned four stars in frontal crash tests and five stars in side crash tests from the NHTSA, with three stars for rollover.