In the world of high-performance, off-road-ready, full-size pickup trucks, there are two dominant pickup truck options: The Tundra TRD Pro vs. Silverado 1500 ZR2. These two rigs have lifted suspensions, gnarly tires, and various locking differentials, and these are the most rugged trucks on the road. Before heading off to your local Toyota or Chevrolet dealer, look at how these two trucks compare.

Off-Road Performance

The Silverado 1500 ZR2 is the clear winner in off-road performance; it comes with front and rear locking differentials, a unique ZR2 suspension, various skid plates, and 33-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires. The ZR2’s suspension has more ground clearance, plus the addition of Multimatic’s DSSV frequency-selective dampers, which allow for better control over large bumps and landings. The ZR2 has the Silverado’s most powerful engine, a 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8.

The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is still pretty formidable, with only one locking differential in the rear. There is a special Multi-Terrain traction-control setup with various surface-specific settings, a full array of underbody skid plates, a set of 18-inch forged-aluminum BBS wheels, and Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires. The TRD Pro also has 9.0 inches of ground clearance.

The Silverado 1500 ZR2 absolutely blows those figures out of the water with 11.2 inches of clearance and a 31.8-degree approach angle.

On-Road Performance

The Tundra TRD Pro’s generally soft ride quality quickly isn’t smooth on the pavement. Despite weighing a significant 383 pounds more, the Tundra is a little faster than the Silverado, reaching 60 mph in 5.7 seconds.

However, the Silverado 1500 ZR2’s 6.2-liter V-8 offers plenty of power for anyone looking for a solid truck. That’s why it’s one of the most popular options at every Chevrolet dealer in town. The steering is tight, and the brakes respond as well as anything else on the road. When you’re behind the wheel of a Silverado 1500 ZR2, you’ll notice excellent steering and a smooth ride, regardless of bumps or breaks in the road.

Which Truck Is Right for Me?

While both trucks are great, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 is the smarter buy. The ZR2 has more comprehensive off-road features and is better built for the dirt than the Tundra TRD Pro. In terms of on-pavement performance, the ZR2 is more refined and better suited for everyday driving. Although the Tundra TRD Pro is quicker, it doesn’t match Silverado’s overall package.

If you’re unsure which one fits your needs, stop by your local Toyota or Chevrolet dealer to set up a test drive. You’ll find that both options can handle the demands of most modern drivers, but the Silverado 1500 offers more value.