The all-new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado offers quite a few advantages over the Tacoma, not the least of which is power. Its base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. Drivers who want more power can choose the available 3.6-liter V6 engine, which makes an impressive 305 horses and 269 pound-feet of torque. A properly equipped Colorado can tow a maximum load of 7,000 pounds.

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma also offers two engines. The standard four-cylinder produces 159 horses and 180 pound-feet of torque. With the available V6, the Tacoma has access to 236 horses and 266 pound-feet of torque. It can tow a maximum load of 6,500 pounds, substantially less than the Colorado.

The all-new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado delivers the latest and greatest in pickup truck features, making it our pick in this category. Inside, the cabin feels like that of an expensive sedan. Seating is spacious and materials are high quality. The Colorado comes standard with everything modern drivers require for a comfortable, convenient ride. Its OnStar telematics comes with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection, allowing passengers to stay connected on the go.

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma isn't too far behind in this category. Standard equipment includes Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, allowing drivers to make hands-free calls without taking their eyes off the road. An available sliding rear window creates a breezy top-down effect.

Safety ratings aren't yet available for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, but the 2015 Toyota Tacoma came away from government crash tests with four out of five stars for overall protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Tacoma its top score of "Good." It comes standard with a wide range of safety equipment, including stability control and front active head restraints.

The Colorado also comes with a long list of standard safety items. OnStar telematics helps drivers out of difficult situations with features like automatic crash notification and remote door unlocking. Four-wheel antilock brakes mean drivers can make strong, quick stops.

This was a close call, because both midsize trucks are so similar. However, the Colorado pulls ahead with its line of well-equipped trim models. 2015 Chevrolet Colorado shoppers can choose between extended cab and crew cab models. The former is paired with a 6-foot bed. Crew cab drivers can choose between a 5- and 6-foot bed. From there, drivers can choose between the Base, LT, and off-road-ready Z71 trim models.

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma is also available with an extended cab, called the Access Cab, and a crew cab known as the Double Cab. The Access Cab comes with a 6-foot bed. Double Cab shoppers can pick either a 5- or 6-foot bed. Shoppers can choose between two- and four-wheel drive, and different features are available according to configuration.