In a desert showdown that had us testing the limits of three mid-size off-road trucks, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, and Ford Ranger Raptor faced off in a rugged, sandy terrain. In our quest to determine the ultimate winner among these off-road beasts, we roared through sand washes, maneuvered around cacti, and even had a Styrofoam cooler sliding around in the backseat. Our mission was to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of each truck, pushing them to their limits to see which one emerged victorious.
The Trucks We Tested
As we ventured out to California’s Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the Tacoma TRD Pro stood out with its eye-catching Terra orange paint and TRD Pro graphics. Boasting a crew-cab, five-foot-bed configuration, this Toyota model featured 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires, Fox QS3 adjustable dampers, and top-notch off-road features like a lockable rear differential and various drive modes. Powered by a hybrid i-Force Max engine producing 326 horsepower, the TRD Pro promised an exhilarating ride. Priced at $65,395, this truck was a force to be reckoned with on the off-road trails.
Meanwhile, the Colorado ZR2 Bison commanded attention with its rugged appearance, towering over its competitors with 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires and distinctive flared fenders. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine generating 310 horsepower, this Chevy model delivered a solid performance on the trails. Priced at $51,195, the ZR2 Bison’s off-road prowess came at a cost, but its impressive features and capabilities made it a formidable contender in our test.
The Ford Ranger Raptor, the newest entrant in the mid-size off-road market, brought its A-game with a wide track and beefed-up steering. Powered by a potent twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine producing 405 horsepower, the Raptor flexed its muscles on the sand. Priced at $57,315, this Ford model offered a compelling blend of power and performance, making it a strong competitor in our off-road showdown.
Interior and Exterior
Stepping inside these off-road machines, we were greeted with a mix of comfort and functionality. The Tacoma TRD Pro impressed with its spacious front seats and ample storage options, although its rear seat left much to be desired. In contrast, the Colorado ZR2 Bison offered a more comfortable rear cabin, making it ideal for longer journeys. The Ford Ranger Raptor boasted flashy red-and-black seats and a user-friendly touchscreen, adding a touch of sportiness to its interior design.
Performance
When it came to performance, each truck had its own strengths and weaknesses. The Ranger Raptor outshone its rivals with a swift acceleration time of 5.3 seconds to 60 mph, showcasing its impressive power on the track. In contrast, the TRD Pro struggled with stiff suspension settings, affecting its overall performance on rough terrain. The ZR2 Bison, while visually striking, lagged behind in acceleration and braking tests, highlighting the trade-offs between style and substance in off-road vehicles.
Driving Experience
Out on the open road and in the dusty trails, each truck offered a unique driving experience. The Ranger Raptor impressed with its responsiveness and ease of handling, making it a crowd favorite among our testers. The TRD Pro, while initially challenging to adjust to, eventually found its footing on the trails, delivering a solid performance under demanding conditions. The ZR2 Bison, with its high ground clearance and comfortable ride, struck a balance between comfort and capability, making it a versatile option for off-road enthusiasts.
And the Winner Is…
After putting the three off-road trucks through their paces, we crowned the Ford Ranger Raptor as the ultimate winner of our desert showdown. With its powerful engine, agile handling, and competitive price point, the Raptor stood out as the top performer in our test. While the Tacoma TRD Pro and Colorado ZR2 Bison put up a good fight, the Raptor’s winning combination of off-road prowess and on-road comfort secured its victory in our rigorous test.
In conclusion, the off-road mid-size truck market offers a diverse range of options for adventurous drivers seeking thrilling off-road experiences. Whether you prefer the rugged capabilities of the ZR2 Bison, the sleek design of the Tacoma TRD Pro, or the dynamic performance of the Ranger Raptor, each truck has its own unique strengths and qualities. As we navigated the desert trails and put these trucks to the test, one thing became clear: the mid-size off-road segment is more exciting and competitive than ever, with each truck offering a distinct blend of style, performance, and capability.
