What are the differences between two of 2026’s most popular midsize trucks? Compare engine and towing power, interior features, overall value, and more!
Exterior, Engine and Performance
Both of these trucks come with a 5-foot bed, but only the Tacoma offers the option to increase to six feet. From factory, the Tacoma’s ground clearance is also slightly higher than the Colorado. This is due to the Tacoma’s shortened floorboards, while the Colorado’s Trail Boss trim is supported by a factory lift.
These midsized trucks may not have powerful V8 engines and large towing capacity, but the Tacoma and Colorado still have very similar driving abilities. The Tacoma is powered by a 2.4L engine with an I-Force MAX (hybrid) option, giving it a horsepower of 278 and 317 lb-ft. of torque.
The Colorado is slightly more powerful, with a horsepower of 310 and 410 lb-ft. of torque. It’s the superior option if you’re looking for maximum cooling capability or improved acceleration.
Interior and Technology
Like almost all midsize trucks, the shorter cabs on the Tacoma and Colorado mean that back row space on the inside is limited. However, their reduced length makes these trucks more efficient for city driving, and provides some of the benefits of a pickup at the size of an SUV.
One of the main differences between the interiors of the Tacoma and Colorado is their touchscreen capabilities. The Tacoma features a 14-inch screen built into the center console, while the Colorado only has an 11-inch screen.
The Toyota Tacoma has a slight edge over the Colorado when it comes to interior technology. The Colorado has a slightly simpler appearance inside, but still has most of the technological capability of the Tacoma. but both of these trucks offer high-quality upgrades such as JBL (Toyota) or Bose (Chevrolet) speakers, improved seats, and more.
Factory Lift
The Tacoma and Colorado are both equipped with some factory features that bolster their off-road abilities. As stated above, the Trail Boss trim level of the Colorado includes a two-inch factory lift. It’s shorter bed also improves vehicle control and maneuverability in off-road situations. Toyota has worked to improve the Tacoma’s ground clearance in the last several years, tweaking the design of the cab to improve the truck’s stance. On higher trims such as the TRD Off-Road, Toyota offers multiple variations and customizations, allowing drivers to tailor the Tacoma to their off-roading needs.
Custom Build Details
2026 Toyota Tacoma Limited. View Additional Photos and Aftermarket Upgrades!
As always, these midsize trucks have both received an array of aftermarket upgrades, installed on-site by the professionals at Krietz Customs.
This 2026 Toyota Tacoma contains a three-inch lift kit from ReadyLift, with 35″ Avix Trailtek R/T tires and 18″ Fuel wheels. The Flux wheel is pictured on the left, while the Tacoma in the video above is running the Fuel Surge.
Our 2026 Chevrolet Colorado has a leveling kit installed to even out its factory lift. Known for their reliability and smooth riding, 305/70 KO3 tires from BFGoodrich are paired with 18″ Fuel Flux wheels to round out this build.
2026 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss. View Additional Photos and Aftermarket Upgrades!
