The Ultimate 2025 Mid-Size Off-Road Truck Showdown: An Expert’s Deep Dive
From a decade spent navigating everything from high desert trails to rocky mount
ain passes, I’ve witnessed the mid-size off-road truck segment explode. What was once a niche market for hardcore enthusiasts has blossomed into a battleground for mainstream automakers, each vying to deliver the ultimate adventure-ready machine. For 2025, the competition is fiercer than ever, with manufacturers pushing boundaries in power, technology, and sheer capability. Gone are the days of simple 4×4 systems; today, we’re talking about sophisticated electronically locking differentials, advanced terrain management systems, and suspension setups engineered for precision across diverse landscapes.
This isn’t just about getting from point A to point B off-pavement; it’s about the entire experience. It’s about confidence when cresting a challenging obstacle, comfort on long hauls to the trailhead, and the seamless integration of technology that genuinely enhances the drive. As the market evolves, so do the expectations of truck buyers. We demand more than just rugged looks; we want genuine, heavy-duty off-road capability fused with on-road refinement and the latest creature comforts. This year, four titans of the mid-size segment—the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, 2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X, and 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro—laid it all on the line. We put these performance off-road trucks through their paces, dissecting every aspect to determine which truly stands out as the ultimate overland truck for the discerning driver in 2025.
Our Rigorous Proving Ground: Testing Beyond the Brochure
To truly separate the pretenders from the contenders, we subjected these top-spec dirt duelers to an exhaustive battery of tests at Holly Oaks ORV Park in Michigan. This isn’t a simple gravel road cruise; it’s a dynamic environment designed to replicate the diverse challenges a real-world adventurer might face. Our evaluation was meticulously structured to assess both their extreme off-road prowess and their day-to-day livability, because let’s face it, even the most hardcore off-roader spends a significant amount of time on the pavement.
Our comprehensive off-road driving experience was broken down into four critical disciplines:
High-Speed Off-Road Course: Simulating desert running and fast trail driving, this test pushed suspensions, powertrains, and steering systems to their limits, evaluating stability, control, and overall confidence at speed.
Rock Crawling: A true test of articulation, ground clearance, tire traction, and precise throttle modulation, requiring sophisticated off-road tech features and excellent visibility.
Hill Climbing: Assessing raw power, low-range gearing, traction management, and the ability to maintain composure on steep ascents.
Hill Descending: Evaluating the effectiveness of hill descent control systems, brake modulation, and vehicle stability on treacherous downhills.
Beyond the dirt, we performed extensive on-road driving, covering a diverse 30-mile loop of highway and suburban roads. Here, we scrutinized powertrain performance, ride quality, seat comfort, interior quality, and the overall user interface—critical factors for anyone considering a truck as their primary vehicle. My experience has taught me that a truck’s on-road manners are just as important as its ability to conquer the wilderness. You can have the best off-road truck in the world, but if it beats you up on the highway, it won’t be a joy to own.
The Contenders: A Detailed Breakdown of 2025’s Elite
After countless hours behind the wheel and meticulous scoring, the results painted a clear picture of each truck’s strengths and weaknesses. It was a fascinating study in engineering philosophies, highlighting how different manufacturers approach the challenge of creating a segment-leading off-road pickup.
2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X: The Analog Enthusiast’s Choice
As-tested price: $66,905
Powertrain: 285-hp, 3.6-liter V-6; eight-speed automatic
Ground clearance: 11.6 inches (second best)
Angles (Approach/Departure/Breakover): 44.7 / 25.5 / 20.9 degrees (best approach, worst breakover)
The Jeep Gladiator Mojave X, with its “Desert Rated” badge, positions itself as a high-speed desert runner. And while it features a sophisticated Fox suspension setup, in practice, it remains more of a slow-speed crawler at heart, especially for experienced drivers who appreciate a more analog connection with the terrain. From my perspective, the Gladiator offers a unique blend of heritage and modern capability, but its specialized nature sometimes comes with compromises.
Where the Gladiator Shines:
Exceptional Approach Angle: This is where the Gladiator truly excels. Its best-in-test approach angle means you can confidently tackle steep obstacles without fearing damage to the front end. It inspires immediate confidence when staring down a rock face.
Masterful Low-Range Operation: Engaging 4-Low transforms the Gladiator into a genuine mountain goat. The easily controllable throttle allows for precise, deliberate movements over technical terrain, making scaling obstacles surprisingly fuss-free. It’s a testament to classic Jeep 4×4 capability.
Tactile Physical Controls: In an era of overwhelming touchscreens, the Gladiator retains a wealth of physical controls for climate, audio, and crucial off-road functions. This old-school approach is refreshing and incredibly practical when you’re bouncing down a trail and don’t want to fumble with a menu.
Quality Interior Aesthetics: The interior quality is genuinely impressive, featuring rugged-looking, on-brand trim and high-quality materials. It feels durable and purpose-built, standing out in a segment where some interiors can feel a bit underwhelming for the price.
Unrivaled Hill-Climb Visibility: Thanks to its low, narrow hood and a truly excellent forward camera view, the Gladiator provides superior visibility for aiming up a hill and cresting the top, allowing for precise wheel placement where it matters most.
Where the Gladiator Stumbles:
Frustrating Hill Descent Tech: The Selec-Speed Control system in our test vehicle was perplexing. It often brought the truck to a complete halt when a slow, controlled crawl was desired, leading to frustration on technical descents. For a truck with this pedigree, the hill descent system needs refinement.
Challenging Breakover Angle: The long wheelbase, while offering stability, results in a noticeably poor breakover angle. This translates to frequent grinding and bumping on the underside when navigating uneven terrain, which can be a significant liability on challenging trails. This is a common characteristic of longer pickups.
High-Speed Off-Road Shortcomings: Despite its “Desert Rated” aspirations, the Gladiator struggles on faster off-road courses. Its solid front axle can make it feel clumsy, and the steering can be vague and numb, making it difficult to maintain control and confidence at speed.
Vague On-Road Steering: On pavement, the steering can feel more like a suggestion than a direct command. The Gladiator tends to wander, requiring constant small corrections, which can be fatiguing on longer highway drives.
Compromised Seat Comfort: The front seats, while offering adequate bolstering, are overly firm and stiff, contributing to discomfort on extended drives. The rear seat space is also quite limited, making it tolerable for adults only for short periods. This earned it the lowest seat comfort score in our evaluation.
Modest Pentastar Power: The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, while reliable, offers minimal power, making the Gladiator feel sluggish when accelerating to highway speeds or attempting passing maneuvers.
Harsh Landings: Attempting any kind of aerial maneuver in the Gladiator resulted in hard, jarring landings that killed momentum and induced cringes from the driver. This is definitely a truck meant to keep its wheels on the ground.
While the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X appeals to a specific type of enthusiast who values a tactile, engaging off-road experience, its compromises in high-speed performance and on-road comfort place it lower in this elite comparison.
2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro: The Hybrid Trailblazer
As-tested price: $66,410
Powertrain: Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas-electric hybrid, 326 hp total; eight-speed automatic
Ground clearance: 11.5 inches (third best)
Angles (Approach/Departure/Breakover): 35.7 / 25.3 / 27.4 degrees (best breakover, worst departure)
The redesigned 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro enters the ring with a bold new i-FORCE MAX gas-electric hybrid powertrain and an array of cutting-edge features. This truck performed admirably on our higher-speed off-road course, hinting at its “go-fast” aspirations. However, some quirks in its low-speed modulation and a few interior compromises held it back in our overall scoring. It’s a compelling option for those seeking a modern, efficient, and capable mid-size truck with hybrid benefits and a strong aftermarket off-road upgrades scene.
Where the Tacoma Shines:
Outstanding Camera Views: The large multimedia screen provides some of the best forward camera views in the segment, a critical asset when navigating tight rock crawling scenarios or cresting a blind hill. This system genuinely enhances off-road confidence and precision.
Strong High-Speed Off-Road Performance: The TRD Pro exhibited impressive stability and control on our high-speed course, second only to the Ranger Raptor. This demonstrates its proficiency as the “go-fast” variant in the Tacoma lineup, handling bumps and corners with notable composure.
Potent On-Road Powertrain: The gas-electric hybrid powertrain delivers immediate, eager responsiveness, thanks to a healthy dose of torque. Paired with quick transmission downshifts, it makes for an engaging and powerful on-road driving experience, proving that hybrid off-road vehicles don’t sacrifice performance.
Innovative IsoDynamic Seats: The unique shock-absorbing IsoDynamic front seats proved effective in keeping the driver firmly in place during aggressive maneuvers on hill climbs and high-speed sections, minimizing body motions and reducing fatigue.
Engaging Engine Note: The Tacoma TRD Pro’s exhaust note on the off-road course was exhilarating, producing a deep, throaty rumble that evoked the sensation of driving a muscle car on dirt. It added an emotional layer to the driving experience.
Where the Tacoma Stumbles:
Overly Sensitive Pedals: A significant drawback in low-speed, technical off-roading was the oddly jumpy throttle and overly sensitive brakes in 4-Low and Rock modes. This made smooth modulation incredibly difficult, often forcing a two-foot driving method to maintain control over rocky obstacles.
Lacking Tire Traction: The TRD Pro’s tires struggled for grip at the peak of our hill climb and on certain loose rock sections, exhibiting more slippage than the other trucks in our comparison. Improved tire compounds could unlock even more of its capability.
Cramped Rear Seating: The innovative IsoDynamic seats, while beneficial for the front occupants, severely compromise rear seat space. Placing adults in the back for any significant duration becomes almost impossible, limiting its practicality for family adventures.
Disappointing Interior Quality: For its price point, the interior quality felt underwhelming. The cabin features an abundance of hard, plasticky surfaces, giving it a somewhat cheap and hollow feel. The hood shake observed at highway speeds further detracted from the perceived quality.
Disconnected Multimedia Interface: The massive multimedia screen, while large, felt disconnected from the rest of the truck’s systems. Many essential functions are frustratingly controlled via the fussy gauge cluster and steering wheel buttons, rather than being logically integrated into the prominent touchscreen.
Unintuitive Instrument Panel: All editors noted the difficulty in adjusting settings within the digital instrument panel due to its unintuitive menu structure, requiring too much attention away from the road or trail.
Impractical Off-Road Gauges: While the display offers tilt and inclinometer readouts in off-road modes, their small size at the bottom of the screen renders them practically useless for quick, real-time assessment during demanding situations.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro represents a significant leap forward, particularly with its powerful hybrid powertrain and high-speed off-road potential. However, its low-speed off-road nuances and interior shortcomings mean it still has ground to gain in this fiercely competitive market.
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor: The High-Speed Hunter
As-tested price: $60,730 (2025 model-year equivalent pricing)
Powertrain: 405-hp, twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6; 10-speed automatic
Ground clearance: 10.7 inches (worst)
Angles (Approach/Departure/Breakover): 33.0 / 26.4 / 24.2 degrees (best departure, worst approach)
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor arrived in the U.S. market like a force of nature, bringing the legendary high-speed off-road focus of its F-150 sibling to the mid-size segment. This truck is unequivocally built for going fast over rough terrain, and it delivered on that promise with exceptional comfort and composure on our high-speed course. What truly sets the Ranger Raptor apart is its ability to translate that off-road performance into stellar on-road manners, making it our editors’ top choice for daily driving. For those seeking a powerful, adventure ready truck that excels across diverse driving scenarios, this turbocharged off-road truck is a compelling choice.
Where the Ranger Raptor Shines:
Dominant High-Speed Off-Roading: The Ranger Raptor is in its element when the pace picks up. Its steering and handling are superb for high-speed environments, making it incredibly easy to control through sweeping corners and undulating terrain. It effortlessly absorbs impacts, maintaining composure where other trucks become unsettled.
Exhilarating Twin-Turbo V-6 Power: The 405-horsepower twin-turbo V-6 is a masterpiece. Whether blasting up a hill climb or cruising on the highway, it delivers linear, predictable power with immediate responsiveness and abundant torque. On-road, it’s a joy to drive, and off-road, it provides the necessary oomph to overcome obstacles with ease. This powertrain sets a new benchmark for mid-size truck performance.
Flawless Hill Descent Control: The Raptor’s hill descent system is exceptionally well-calibrated, easing the truck down steep inclines smoothly and steadily. It instills immense confidence, allowing the driver to focus on steering rather than brake modulation.
Superior On-Road Ride Comfort: In its Normal driving mode, the Ranger Raptor’s suspension provides an incredibly comfortable and compliant ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections without jostling occupants. This level of refinement is unmatched by the other trucks in this comparison, offering feedback and control that truly enhances the daily driving experience.
Outstanding Seat Comfort: The front seats in the Ranger Raptor were universally praised. They offer excellent support and cushioning, making them the preferred choice for long drives. This was reflected in its highest seat comfort score.
Composed Jumps and Landings: The Ranger Raptor was the only truck in our test that could handle jumps without drama. It landed with remarkable composure, allowing for maximum speed to be carried into subsequent turns—a true testament to its specialized suspension tuning.
Where the Ranger Raptor Stumbles:
Impractical Side Steps: The large, fixed side steps proved to be a liability off-road. They frequently scraped and sustained damage on rock obstacles, and their presence isn’t necessary for cabin access given the truck’s relatively moderate ground clearance compared to its competitors.
Vertical Touchscreen Layout: The 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, while large, offered a smaller effective viewing area for external cameras. This vertical orientation felt less intuitive for off-road camera feeds than the horizontal displays in other trucks.
Unintuitive Shifter Design: The transmission gear selector was not as user-friendly as it could be, with editors frequently confusing the left-side button for the front shifter-release, leading to moments of fumbling.
Limited Lateral Seat Bolstering: While generally comfortable, the bottom cushion of the front seats could use more lateral bolstering to provide better support during aggressive off-road maneuvers, despite the well-bolstered backrest.
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor is an undeniable force, particularly for those whose adventures involve speed and who prioritize a refined on-road experience. Its potent engine and finely tuned suspension make it a high-performance standout, securing a strong second place in our ultimate mid-size off-road truck comparison.
2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison: The King of the Rocks
As-tested price: $64,915
Powertrain: 310-hp, turbo 2.7-liter four-cylinder; eight-speed automatic
Ground clearance: 12.2 inches (best)
Angles (Approach/Departure/Breakover): 38.2 / 26 / 26.9 degrees
The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison isn’t just a truck; it’s a statement. Equipped with massive 35-inch mud-terrain tires and a towering 12.2 inches of ground clearance, it arrived as the undisputed monster truck of our mid-size stable. This extreme setup, developed in collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), unequivocally propelled the Bison to victory in our most demanding slow-speed off-road tests: rock crawling, hill climbing, and hill descending. While it sacrifices some high-speed prowess and on-road precision due to its aggressive build, its heavy-duty off-road capability is simply unmatched. From my experience, this is the ultimate overland truck for those who prioritize conquering the most challenging terrain.
Where the Colorado ZR2 Bison Shines:
Unrivaled Rock-Crawling Capability: The benefits of those 35-inch tires and class-leading ground clearance become immediately apparent. The Bison effortlessly glides over large rocks and ledges, with its Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) shocks providing incredible damping. It offers unparalleled ride quality over technical obstacles, allowing for maximum articulation and control.
Flawless Hill Descent Control: The massive 35-inch tires and well-engineered hill descent system allowed the Colorado to ease over the top of our steepest hill descent with absolute confidence and supreme grip on the way down. It made a potentially stressful situation feel completely controlled and low-stress.
Dominant Hill Climb Performance: Thanks to its superior ground clearance and excellent breakover angle, the ZR2 Bison crested the hill with remarkable ease and plenty of room to spare. Its traction and power delivery worked in perfect harmony for steep ascents.
Exemplary Off-Road Tech Usability: Chevrolet has nailed the integration of off-road technology. The simplified controls and large horizontal display screen with outstanding graphics make it incredibly easy to engage various off-road modes and activate systems like front and rear locking differentials. This user-friendly approach is a huge asset when you’re focused on the trail.
Intuitive Overall User Interface: The Colorado strikes an ideal balance between touchscreen controls for less-frequently used functions (like headlights and traction control) and physical buttons for essential climate and audio adjustments. This thoughtful design minimizes distraction and maximizes usability.
Cutting-Edge Screen Technology: The customizable digital instrument panel is bright, vivid, and highly informative. Coupled with the responsive and intuitive Google Built-In infotainment system, it offers a seamless and modern user experience. Apple CarPlay integrated effortlessly, a must-have for modern drivers.
Exceptional Down-Low Visibility: The integrated underbody cameras are a game-changer. They provide crucial visibility for precise wheel placement, allowing drivers to navigate complex terrain with greater accuracy and confidence.
Where the Colorado ZR2 Bison Stumbles:
Compromised On-Road Manners: The aggressive 35-inch tires, while amazing off-road, contribute to a bouncier, floatier ride on pavement. While better than the Gladiator, it lacks the precision and composure of the Tacoma or Ranger on the highway, with handling suffering from vagueness and slower responses.
Limited High-Speed Off-Road Performance: The Bison’s higher center of gravity and aggressive tire setup meant it struggled at higher speeds on our dirt course. Poor forward visibility and a somewhat bouncy ride limited confidence and pace, making this the only off-road test it didn’t outright win.
Challenging Cabin Entry: Those massive 35-inch tires mean a significant climb to get into the driver’s seat. Even for taller drivers, the truck could greatly benefit from a dedicated driver’s-side grab handle to aid entry and exit.
Absence of Rearview Camera Mirror: The Colorado ZR2 Bison, with its bed-mounted full-size spare tire obstructing a large portion of the rear view, desperately needs a rearview camera mirror—a feature available in other GM vehicles. Driving on the highway with severely compromised rear visibility never felt truly safe.
The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is purpose-built for extreme off-roading, and in that domain, it is an undeniable champion. Its combination of ground clearance, robust engineering, and user-friendly tech makes it the undisputed best mid-size off-road truck for tackling the toughest trails. While it demands some concessions in on-road refinement and high-speed off-road dynamics, for the enthusiast who lives for challenging terrain, the Bison is simply peerless.
The Verdict: Tailoring Your 2025 Off-Road Adventure
Our comprehensive 2025 Mid-Size Off-Road Truck Challenge has crowned the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison as the overall victor, a testament to its supreme capability in slow-speed, technical off-roading. Its colossal ground clearance, 35-inch tires, and advanced AEV-engineered components make it an unstoppable force when rock crawling, tackling steep inclines, or managing treacherous descents. For the ultimate overland truck experience where extreme terrain is the primary focus, the Bison reigns supreme.
However, “best” is always subjective and ultimately depends on your specific needs and driving preferences.
If your adventures lean towards high-speed desert running and you demand uncompromising on-road comfort and power for daily driving, the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor is your clear choice. Its twin-turbo V-6 and refined suspension make it a joy both on fast trails and the pavement.
For those seeking a modern, efficient hybrid powertrain coupled with strong high-speed off-road potential and cutting-edge camera technology, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro offers a compelling, albeit sometimes quirky, package.
And if you value a traditional, analog off-road experience with excellent articulation, physical controls, and an unbeatable approach angle, the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X remains a unique and engaging option for the seasoned enthusiast, despite its limitations at speed.
The 2025 mid-size off-road truck market offers an incredible array of specialized vehicles, each with its distinct personality and capabilities. Choosing the right one means aligning the truck’s strengths with your personal adventure ambitions.
Your Next Adventure Awaits!
The landscape of adventure-ready trucks has never been more exciting. Whether you’re planning an epic overland expedition, conquering local trails, or simply seeking a versatile daily driver that can handle anything, there’s a mid-size off-road truck perfectly suited for you in 2025. Don’t just read about these incredible machines; experience them for yourself. Visit your local dealerships, take a test drive, and explore the vast world of aftermarket off-road upgrades to truly personalize your ultimate adventure vehicle. What’s your next trail? The perfect truck is out there waiting to take you there.
