2024 Toyota Tacoma vs Chevy Colorado: Which Mid-Size Truck Wins?

Picking the right pickup truck can be tough. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado both bring a lot to the table. This blog compares their power, comfort, and safety to help you decide which fits your lifestyle better—whether you're towing, trail riding, or daily driving.

 

Key Takeaways

• The 2024 Toyota Tacoma offers a hybrid model, giving it a tech-forward edge.

• The Chevy Colorado leads in towing capacity with up to 7,700 pounds.

• Both trucks offer advanced infotainment and safety systems.

• The Tacoma excels in off-road performance and introduces a turbocharged I-4 engine.

• Reliability ratings favor the Tacoma over the Colorado.

 

Power and Performance

Both trucks bring impressive performance specs, but they go about it differently. The Tacoma introduces hybrid power, while the Colorado pushes towing limits.

Engine Options and Horsepower

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma offers two standout options: a 2.7-liter turbo I-4 engine and a 2.4-liter turbocharged i-FORCE hybrid. These setups deliver solid power and improved fuel efficiency. In contrast, engine specs for the 2024 Chevy Colorado remain less detailed but include a strong gas-only setup.

The Tacoma’s hybrid option gives it a clear technological advantage, especially for buyers looking for better mileage without sacrificing power.

For drivers who frequently navigate mixed driving environments—city streets during the week, dirt trails on weekends—the hybrid Tacoma provides versatility and efficiency. Additionally, turbocharged engines in both trucks offer smooth acceleration and torque, particularly helpful when merging or hauling heavy gear.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Chevy Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs, making it a great choice for those needing to haul more. The Tacoma tops out at 6,500 lbs, which is still respectable.

However, Tacoma fans often prioritize off-road agility over raw towing numbers. Pairing the Tacoma with rugged upgrades—like our fog lights that boost visibility on night trails—makes it an even better off-road performer.

Both trucks offer strong payload capacities, but the Tacoma's multi-link rear suspension and terrain management systems give it an edge in rocky or uneven landscapes where precision matters more than power.

Interior and Technology

Both trucks have leveled up on comfort and convenience, with plenty of thoughtful touches inside.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The Tacoma's seats are praised for comfort, especially on long drives. While the Colorado offers slightly more rear legroom, Tacoma’s cabin features more upscale materials and durable finishes.

Tacoma’s ride is also aided by its advanced suspension system, which smooths out rough terrain—especially helpful if you’ve equipped your truck with aftermarket side steps like these, which double as both functional steps and light-duty rock sliders.

In terms of practicality, the Tacoma’s interior is well thought-out, with plenty of storage compartments and modular space for tools, gear, or trail essentials. Drivers who take their trucks into remote areas will appreciate the available power outlets and wireless charging pads for keeping devices and GPS units charged.

Infotainment Systems

Both trucks offer touchscreen displays with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Tacoma’s system is responsive and easy to use, while the Colorado’s screen is slightly larger.

Voice controls and Bluetooth work seamlessly in both, and each truck can be upgraded with premium audio systems. Tacoma’s hybrid model even offers fuel-efficiency tracking through the infotainment interface.

Beyond that, both systems now include over-the-air update capability, meaning your truck's software stays current without needing a dealership visit. The Tacoma also includes multi-terrain camera view, which is a big plus for technical off-roading.

Safety and Reliability

Safety and long-term reliability play a huge role in any truck-buying decision.

Standard and Available Safety Features

The Tacoma comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure alert. The Colorado counters with forward collision alerts and rear park assist.

Both trucks can be equipped with extras like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts, but only the Tacoma combines those with proven off-road stability features.

Also worth noting: the Tacoma's safety systems are tuned for off-road situations, with brake-force distribution and crawl control designed to assist in low-traction environments.

Reliability Ratings

According to consumer data, the Toyota Tacoma consistently ranks higher in reliability than the Colorado. Owners report fewer issues over time and longer-lasting performance. This peace of mind is part of why many buyers lean toward the Tacoma—even if it means giving up a bit of towing power.

Routine maintenance is generally easier with the Tacoma as well. Toyota's widespread dealer network and reputation for durable parts make it an appealing long-term investment.

Off-Roading and Customization Potential

When it comes to aftermarket customization and off-road chops, Tacoma is the reigning champ in the midsize pickup class. Its ground clearance, approach angles, and accessory ecosystem are second to none.

You’ll find more community support and upgrade options with Tacoma—from roof-top tents and bed racks to performance lights and rock armor. For instance, our low-profile side steps are designed to blend into the body line while giving extra clearance. Our fog lights are engineered to cut through dust, rain, and snow without blinding oncoming traffic—perfect for night runs through the backcountry.

Meanwhile, the Colorado is improving fast. The ZR2 trim especially shows promise in handling rough terrain, but the aftermarket support and parts variety still lags behind Toyota’s.

Which Truck Comes Out on Top?

It depends on what you need. The Chevy Colorado is a strong choice for towing and interior space, but the 2024 Toyota Tacoma wins for off-road use, tech options, and long-term reliability.

If you're customizing your truck for trails, camping, or overlanding, Tacoma is the better canvas. And with smart add-ons like our low-profile side steps and high-performance fog lights, your Tacoma becomes more than just a truck—it becomes your adventure rig.

Ready to build yours?