2026 Toyota Tacoma vs Chevrolet Colorado

The midsize truck category has seen a significant boost in popularity over the last decade. Models such as the 2026 Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado have become top picks for truck buyers who want a smaller footprint than a full-size pickup, while prizing power, off-roading capability, and fuel economy. In these three categories, Schaumburg Toyota weighs the Toyota Tacoma versus the Chevy Colorado.

Powertrain

When you connect with a Schaumburg, IL, Toyota dealer to test-drive the 2026 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll have three engines to choose from. The most powerful of these – the i-FORCE MAX® 2.4-liter hybrid – achieves 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This easily tops the 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque produced by the only available engine for the Chevy Colorado. Not only does the 2026 Toyota Tacoma offer more engine choices and more engine power, but it’s also one of the only vehicles in the auto industry to offer an available six-speed manual transmission. On the other hand, the Chevy Colorado comes exclusively with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Off-Roading

Both of these trucks are capable off-roaders. However, our new Toyota truck has two notable advantages. The first of these is history: Toyota Tacoma TRD (Toyota Racing Development) and the TRD Off-Road package debuted in 1998 and has been impressing drivers for nearly three decades. Contrarily, it wasn’t until 2008 that the Chevy Colorado gained its current reputation as an off-roader. The second is selection: whereas the Chevy Colorado offers three off-road-oriented trims, the 2026 Toyota Tacoma boasts five – including the recently released, unstoppable Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter.

Fuel Economy

In the category of fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Tacoma trumps the Chevy Colorado. With the i-FORCE® 2.4-liter turbocharged engine equipped, you’ll enjoy EPA-estimated gas mileage of up to 26 mpg highway and 21 mpg city. Comparatively, the Chevrolet Colorado delivers 22 mpg highway and 17 mpg city. Meanwhile, the i-FORCE® MAX 2.4-liter setup complements its immense power with advanced hybrid technology. This equates to EPA-estimated gas mileage of 24 mpg highway and 22 mpg city, which is also better than the Chevy Colorado.

Choose Your 2026 Toyota Tacoma in Schaumburg, IL

With the 2026 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll have it all: an incredible powertrain, phenomenal off-road capability, and exceptional fuel economy. Check out this midsize truck’s huge trim lineup at Schaumburg Toyota, and talk with our Toyota finance pros about our latest programs and specials.