2025 Chevy Colorado vs Ford Ranger vs Toyota Tacoma: Off-Road Test
When it comes to off-road midsize trucks, the 2025 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison, Ford Ranger Raptor, and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro dominate the market. Drawing from Car and Driver’s comparison test, this blog explores their performance, features, pricing, and off-road capabilities to determine which truck is best for rugged adventures. Whether you’re navigating desert dunes or rocky trails, this comparison will guide your decision.
Performance Breakdown: Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison vs Ford Ranger Raptor vs Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The 2025 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison is powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with Multimatic DSSV dampers and 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, it excels on tough terrain. Its high ground clearance and wide stance make it ideal for rock crawling, though its fuel economy averages 14 mpg during intense off-road use.
The Ford Ranger Raptor features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just over five seconds, dominating high-speed off-road scenarios. With Fox live-valve shocks and 33-inch BFGoodrich KO3 tires, the Raptor offers a smooth ride on desert trails. However, its smaller approach angle can limit performance in tight, rocky sections.
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro introduces a hybrid i-Force Max powertrain, combining a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder with a 48-hp electric motor for 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It boasts the best fuel efficiency at 16 mpg during testing, compared to the 14 mpg of its rivals. Featuring Fox adjustable shocks and a disconnecting sway bar, the Tacoma offers versatility but lags in suspension travel for high-speed whoops.
Features and Pricing: Which Truck Offers the Best Value?
Pricing is a key factor in choosing the right off-road truck. The Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison starts at $60,395, with the tested model reaching $65,125 after options like underbody cameras and a sunroof. Its spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a strong contender for both daily driving and off-road adventures.
The Ford Ranger Raptor, starting at $57,215, is the most affordable option. It includes adaptive dampers, front and rear lockers, and a refined cabin, making it a top pick for buyers seeking performance on a budget without compromising capability.
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro starts at $65,395, with the tested version priced at $65,869 after extras like a bed mat. Its hybrid powertrain and practicality are impressive, but the high price and lack of wide axles compared to rivals might deter some buyers. For more pricing details, visit Toyota’s official site.
Off-Road Capabilities: Which Truck Rules the Dirt?
In Car and Driver’s desert test, each truck showcased distinct strengths. The Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison excelled in technical trails with superior ground clearance and locking differentials, making it a rock-crawling beast. The Ford Ranger Raptor dominated high-speed scenarios like desert dunes, thanks to its powerful engine and advanced suspension. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro offered a balanced performance across terrains but fell short in suspension travel for aggressive off-roading.
Conclusion: Picking the Winner
Choosing between the 2025 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison, Ford Ranger Raptor, and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro depends on your priorities. The Bison is perfect for hardcore off-roaders seeking durability and technical prowess. The Raptor appeals to those prioritizing speed and value, while the Tacoma suits buyers who value efficiency and practicality. For more off-road comparisons, check out Edmunds.
