The Ultimate 2025 Mid-Size Off-Road Truck Showdown: An Expert’s Deep Dive
For a decade now, I’ve been elbows-deep in the dirt, dust, and grime that define
the world of serious off-roading. I’ve witnessed trends come and go, watched technology evolve from rudimentary 4×4 systems to hyper-sophisticated terrain management, and seen a once-niche market explode into a fiercely competitive arena. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the mid-size pickup segment, where automakers are pushing the boundaries of what a factory-built rig can do off the beaten path. For 2025, the competition is hotter than ever, with manufacturers delivering purpose-built machines designed to dominate every conceivable terrain.
This year, we corralled the titans of the mid-size off-road world for the ultimate proving ground: Michigan’s Holly Oaks ORV Park. This isn’t your casual dirt road; it’s a brutal gauntlet of high-speed trails, treacherous rock gardens, heart-stopping hill climbs, and white-knuckle descents. Our objective was clear: identify the best all-around mid-size off-road truck for 2025, a vehicle that not only conquers the wilderness but also retains a modicum of civility for the daily grind. We weren’t just looking at spec sheets; we were evaluating real-world performance, user-friendliness of advanced off-road tech, and the overall confidence each truck inspired when the going got truly tough.
Our contenders represent the pinnacle of current mid-size off-road engineering: the formidable 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, the newly arrived 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor (which, for all intents and purposes, sets the bar for 2025 performance), the distinctly American 2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X, and the re-engineered 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. These aren’t just trucks with lift kits and knobby tires; they are highly specialized machines, each with a unique philosophy on how to tackle extreme terrain. My team and I put each through a series of demanding tests:
High-Speed Off-Road Course: Evaluating suspension dampening, steering precision, and stability on loose dirt, jumps, and whoops.
Technical Rock Crawling: Assessing low-range torque control, axle articulation, underbody protection, and camera visibility over challenging obstacles.
Steep Hill Climbing: Testing traction management, sustained power, and forward visibility on extreme inclines.
Controlled Hill Descent: Scrutinizing downhill assist systems, braking modulation, and overall vehicle control on precipitous slopes.
On-Road Driving Dynamics: Because even the most hardcore off-roader spends time on pavement, we assessed ride quality, powertrain responsiveness, interior comfort, and user interface design during a 30-mile loop.
After thousands of miles of testing, countless hours in the dirt, and meticulous scoring, here’s how these beasts of burden stacked up, from fourth place to the undisputed champion. This isn’t just a list; it’s a comprehensive breakdown to help you make the best decision for your next adventure vehicle.
2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X: The Desert Dweller’s Dilemma
The 2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X, priced at an as-tested $66,905, comes with a distinctive “Desert Rated” badge, suggesting a predisposition for high-speed desert running. While it features a potent Fox suspension setup designed for exactly that, our comprehensive testing revealed a truck that, at its heart, still leans into traditional, slower-speed rock crawling. Powered by a 285-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it offers 11.6 inches of ground clearance, second-best in our test. Its impressive 44.7-degree approach angle is class-leading, but its 20.9-degree breakover angle was the worst, a critical liability for an extreme off-roading truck.
Performance Unpacked:
On paper, the Mojave X has the right equipment: Fox shocks, a 1-inch front suspension lift, a locking rear axle, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. During slow-speed maneuvers, especially in 4-Low, the Gladiator truly shined. “Scaling obstacles felt incredibly natural,” noted one judge, praising the easily controllable throttle and minimal fuss when creeping over difficult terrain. The low, narrow hood, combined with an excellent forward camera view, also provided superior visibility during hill climbs, allowing for precise wheel placement. This analog approach rewards experienced drivers who prefer a more direct connection to the vehicle and terrain, eschewing some of the digital interventions found in rivals.
However, the Mojave X’s ambition to be a high-speed desert specialist often clashed with its inherent design. The lengthy wheelbase, a double-edged sword, became a significant hindrance during our breakover tests, with the truck’s underside frequently scraping and bumping. Its solid front axle, while robust, made it feel “clumsy” and “vague” through high-speed turns on our dirt course. This translated to a lack of confidence and made it the most challenging truck to control in dynamic, fast-paced scenarios.
On-Road Refinements and Roadblocks:
The Gladiator’s interior quality received high marks for its rugged, on-brand trim and high-quality materials, reflecting Jeep’s commitment to durability. The abundance of physical controls for climate and audio was a welcome throwback, making adjustments intuitive without fumbling through touchscreen menus.
Unfortunately, the on-road experience was a compromise. The Pentastar V-6 felt modest, struggling to get up to highway speeds and offering little in reserve for passing. Steering precision was notably vague, resulting in constant micro-corrections to keep the truck tracking straight. Seat comfort was a unanimous low point, with overly firm front seats and a cramped rear cabin that made it barely tolerable for adults, significantly impacting long-haul comfort. Furthermore, the Selec-Speed Control, Jeep’s hill descent tech, proved frustratingly inconsistent, often bringing the vehicle to an abrupt halt rather than allowing a smooth, controlled crawl down grades.
Who is it For?
The Gladiator Mojave X remains a compelling choice for the purist who prioritizes traditional, slow-speed crawling and appreciates a robust, tactile off-road experience. However, its “Desert Rated” aspirations aren’t fully realized when compared to more purpose-built high-speed competitors, and its on-road manners leave much to be desired.
2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro: Hybrid Power Meets Trail Capability
The redesigned 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, with an as-tested price of $66,410, enters the arena with a significant update: an all-new gas-electric hybrid powertrain. This turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid system delivers a robust 326 total horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Offering 11.5 inches of ground clearance and boasting the best breakover angle in our test at 27.4 degrees, the TRD Pro brings Fox shocks, 33-inch tires, and innovative IsoDynamic front seats to the mid-size 4×4 review.
Performance Unpacked:
The Tacoma TRD Pro impressed immediately on our high-speed off-road course, securing a strong second place, just behind the Ranger Raptor. Its stability and control were commendable, reflecting its “go-fast” pedigree within the Tacoma lineup. The innovative IsoDynamic seats were particularly praised for their ability to keep occupants planted during aggressive maneuvers and sharp inclines, a genuine advantage for spirited driving. Another standout feature was the camera system; its large screen real estate provided exceptional forward camera views during treacherous hill climbs and intricate rock crawling, arguably the best in the comparison for intricate wheel placement. The truck’s exhaust note also elicited praise, delivering a satisfying, “muscle car for the dirt” rumble.
However, the Tacoma’s Achilles’ heel emerged during slower, more technical off-roading. The accelerator pedal, especially in 4-Low and Rock modes, was “bizarrely jumpy and very, very difficult to modulate,” making smooth progress over obstacles a frustrating challenge. This required an awkward two-foot driving method to maintain control, which can be taxing for drivers. Additionally, the TRD Pro’s tires struggled for grip at the peak of our hill climb, lacking the sheer traction demonstrated by its rivals.
On-Road Refinements and Roadblocks:
The hybrid powertrain was a highlight on the pavement, delivering immediate responsiveness thanks to ample torque and quick transmission downshifts. This eager power delivery made the TRD Pro a genuinely fun truck to drive on the road.
Despite its powertrain prowess, the interior left much to be desired, especially considering its premium price point. “Interior quality isn’t impressive,” remarked one editor, citing a “very plasticky interior overall.” The multimedia screen, while massive, felt disconnected from the rest of the truck’s controls. Many essential systems were frustratingly tucked away in the unintuitive digital instrument panel, making adjustments cumbersome and distracting. The “eyechart gauges” for critical off-road metrics like tilt and inclinometer were too small to be genuinely useful, undermining the very purpose of an advanced off-road tech display. Finally, the IsoDynamic seats, while beneficial off-road, came at the cost of backseat space, rendering the rear virtually unusable for adults on anything but the shortest trips.
Who is it For?
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize high-speed desert running and appreciate the immediate responsiveness of a hybrid powertrain on and off the road. Its sophisticated camera system and innovative seating are highlights. However, those focused on technical, slow-speed rock crawling or expecting premium interior refinement for the price might find its quirks challenging.
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor: The High-Speed Desert Dominator
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, with an equivalent 2025 model year price of $60,730, redefined the performance off-road pickup segment upon its U.S. debut. Designed with a clear focus on high-speed off-road driving, it delivered an unparalleled blend of comfort and composure on our most challenging dirt courses. Our editors universally declared it the best truck to drive on-road, a significant achievement for a vehicle so capable in the wild. Its powertrain, a formidable 405-horsepower, twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, is a force to be reckoned with. While its 10.7 inches of ground clearance were the lowest in our test, its specialized wide-track suspension with a Watts-link rear setup, Fox shocks, and 33-inch all-terrain tires compensate brilliantly.
Performance Unpacked:
The Ranger Raptor didn’t just win the high-speed off-road course; it dominated it. Its steering and handling were described as “superb,” making it “the easiest to control around our course’s sweeping corners.” The Fox suspension system soaked up jumps and severe terrain with remarkable grace, leading one judge to note, “The Ranger Raptor was the only truck in this test that landed jumps without any issue and allowed for the most speed to be carried into the ensuing hairpin turn.” This adventure vehicle truly lives up to its desert runner billing.
Off-road, the twin-turbo V-6 provided abundant, easily modulated power, crucial for climbing steep hills with confidence. Its hill descent system was equally impressive, easing the truck down grades with smooth, consistent control. The locking front and rear axles, combined with seven selectable drive modes including a “Baja” setting, further enhance its versatility on diverse terrain.
On-Road Refinements and Roadblocks:
Where the Raptor truly sets itself apart is its dual nature. On pavement, its ride quality in Normal mode is exceptional, offering a level of feedback and control that the other trucks simply couldn’t match. Even in Sport mode, performance sharpened noticeably without sacrificing comfort. Seat comfort was another area where the Raptor excelled, providing excellent support for longer drives and earning the highest score in our test. The linear, predictable power delivery of the V-6 on-road made daily driving a pleasure, contradicting the common compromise of extreme off-roading trucks.
However, no truck is perfect. The large side steps, while aesthetically aggressive, proved to be more of a liability than an asset on technical rock obstacles, frequently scraping and getting damaged. The vertically oriented 12-inch touchscreen, while sizable, presented a smaller viewing area for critical external cameras compared to horizontally oriented rivals. The transmission gear selector also proved unintuitive, leading to fumbling during quick maneuvers. While the front seats were comfortable, some testers noted a lack of lateral bolstering on the bottom cushion, a minor but noticeable detail during aggressive driving.
Who is it For?
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor is the undisputed king for those prioritizing high-speed off-road prowess and a surprisingly refined on-road experience. If your adventures involve wide-open desert trails, spirited dirt track driving, and long hauls to get there, the Raptor is your ultimate weapon. Its blend of power, sophisticated suspension, and daily drivability makes it a standout premium off-road truck.
2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison: The Unstoppable Rock Monster
Taking the crown for the best mid-size off-road truck of 2025 is the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, with an as-tested price of $64,915. This vehicle is, quite simply, a monster in the best possible sense. Equipped with massive 35-inch mud-terrain tires and a towering 12.2 inches of ground clearance—the best in our test—the Bison is engineered to dominate the most challenging obstacles. Powered by a 310-horsepower, turbo 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, it boasts impressive approach (38.2 degrees), departure (26 degrees), and breakover (26.9 degrees) angles.
Performance Unpacked:
The ZR2 Bison’s dominance in slow-speed off-roading was absolute. It swept our rock crawl, hill climb, and hill descent tests, thanks to a combination of its gargantuan tires, superior ground clearance, and intelligent off-road tech. “The advantages of 35-inch tires on the Colorado quickly become clear,” observed one judge, highlighting the improved ride quality over technical steps, enhanced damping over large rocks, and simply unparalleled height. Its boron-steel skid plates and rocker protection, along with Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) shocks, provided robust protection and articulation.
During hill descents, the 35-inch tires offered “supreme grip,” making steep grades a low-stress affair, further aided by a highly effective hill descent system. Similarly, on hill climbs, the extra ground clearance and excellent breakover angle allowed the Bison to crest inclines with ample room. The usability of its off-road tech was another standout. Chevy has struck a perfect balance between physical controls and a responsive, horizontally oriented touchscreen with “outstanding graphics.” This simplified control scheme made it incredibly easy to engage various off-road modes and systems, even under pressure. The underbody cameras were particularly lauded, making precise wheel placement on tricky terrain “much easier.” This synergy of hardware and user-friendly software makes the Bison an incredibly confidence-inspiring rock crawling vehicle.
On-Road Refinements and Roadblocks:
Chevrolet’s overall user interface, with its “right mix of touchscreen controls for things you don’t touch often… and hard buttons for things you do,” was rated highest among our contenders. The customizable digital instrument panel is bright and vivid, and the Google Built-In infotainment system, complete with seamless Apple CarPlay integration, is both responsive and intuitive.
However, the very features that make the Bison a king off-road present compromises on pavement. Those enormous 35-inch tires, while invaluable in the dirt, contribute to a bouncier, floatier ride on regular roads. Handling suffers from a noticeable vagueness and slower steering responses compared to the Ranger Raptor or Tacoma TRD Pro. While it’s still more refined than the Gladiator, it demands more driver input on the highway. Additionally, the Bison’s higher center of gravity and massive tires meant it struggled at higher speeds on our dirt course, lacking the confidence and pace of the Ranger Raptor.
Entry and exit also proved challenging due to the truck’s towering stature; a driver’s-side grab handle would be a welcome addition. Finally, the bed-mounted full-size spare tire, while practical for serious off-roading, severely obstructs the rear view, and the absence of a rearview camera mirror (a feature found in other GM vehicles) felt like a significant oversight for a truck that needs it most.
Who is it For?
The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is the undisputed champion for the driver who lives for technical off-roading, rock crawling, and conquering seemingly impossible terrain. Its unparalleled ground clearance, massive tires, and exceptional off-road tech usability make it an unstoppable force. While it asks for some concessions in on-road comfort and high-speed off-road dynamics, for the dedicated trail enthusiast seeking the ultimate mid-size off-road capability, the Bison stands alone.
The Final Verdict: Mastering Your Terrain
The 2025 mid-size off-road truck market is vibrant and diverse, offering purpose-built solutions for nearly every off-road aspiration. The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is undeniably the most capable factory-built machine for slow-speed, technical challenges like rock crawling and steep ascents, leveraging its incredible ground clearance and user-friendly technology to dominate. For those whose adventures lean towards high-speed desert blasting and who demand a genuinely refined on-road experience, the Ford Ranger Raptor stands as a formidable, class-leading choice. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro offers a compelling blend of hybrid power and high-speed dirt prowess, though it stumbles on the most technical trails and in interior execution. The Jeep Gladiator Mojave X, while steeped in off-road heritage, finds itself straddling the line between high-speed desert running and slow-speed crawling, without truly excelling in either, and requires a driver who appreciates a more analog, less digitally assisted experience.
Ultimately, the “best” truck depends on your personal definition of adventure. Whether you’re navigating treacherous boulder fields, bombing across desert trails, or exploring remote backcountry, the 2025 lineup offers truly exceptional off-road truck buying guide 2025 options.
Ready to experience the thrill for yourself? Dive deeper into our detailed reviews, compare specs side-by-side, and find local inventory to put these incredible machines to the test. Your next great adventure awaits – choose your weapon wisely!
