The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro vs. Chevy Colorado ZR2
It might be obvious that we really love our TRDs, and we’re alright with that
When we have new customers visit the dealership looking for their next truck, we often get asked about how the Tacoma TRD Sport compares to the popular 2015-and-up remake of the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The answer: it comes out with fists a-swinging.
2018 Specifications
Both of these lifted trucks sit high on Goodyear Wranglers, but the Tacoma TRD Pro has the set with kevlar protection. Stepping up to ground clearance, the Colorado has 8.9 inches of ground clearance compared to the TRD’s 9.5 inches. What sounds like a small difference makes you feel higher while driving, and will keep you higher off of the ground when off-roading: when it counts the most.
The payload capacity of the TRD Pro comes in at a whopping 1,175 pounds and it has a towing capacity of 6,400 pounds. The Colorado, on the other hand, comes up short at 1,100 pounds of payload and 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. If you’re looking to work hard and play harder, the TRD is the more capable workhorse.
The Kits
Sometimes, we’ve heard that people have a paradigm that Toyota’s aren’t as attractive as some other brands can be. While our vehicles are performance and design-centric, the TRD leaves nothing behind. The TRD Pro kit of 2018 is one of the most attractive packages we’ve seen, with tough lines, bold accents, and functional design. The Colorado has a more plastic look-and-feel to it, with rounded edges and more juvenile design elements.
The TRD kit has on-centre steering that doesn’t disappoint. With Fox shocks, 4x4 drive, a 278 horsepower engine, a 5-foot cargo box, and seating for five. You’ll find unique features like the TRD shift knob, the TACOMA front grille, Rigid Industries fog lights, Black TRD Pro leather seats, a power rear sliding window, and a locking rear differential. Taking it a step further, we have a power outlet in the cargo bed, a full Toyota Safety Sense suite, and wireless charging.
The Colorado puts up a good fight but doesn’t come up to our level. You’ll find some unique badges, a dark colour scheme, and alloy rims.
The Verdict
With more power, a bigger payload and towing capacity, and durable design elements that hit the ground running, the TRD Pro keeps coming out on top here, and in reviews around the world. In tests, you’ll find that the TRD Pro consistently gets rave reviews for being able to tug itself out of the mud without skipping a beat, and can tow like there’s no added weight behind the truck. You’re able to fit a lot more, and the spare tire placement just makes sense (unlike being in the bed on the Colorado).
“It feels nearly bulletproof”
- Matthew DeBord, Business Insider
We’re proud to stand behind a great lineup of Tacomas and other new and used Toyota vehicles. Feel free to reach out - our team would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
