Mid-size pickup

2026 Chevrolet Colorado: buying summary

The mid-size truck with the segment's biggest engine output and highest max tow

MSRP range
$33,395–$55,995
Combined MPG
21
Body style
Mid-size pickup
Powertrain
Gasoline

Pros

  • 7,700 lb max tow rating with the tow package — the highest in the mid-size segment, beating the Ranger's 7,500 lb and Tacoma's 6,500 lb
  • 2.7L Turbo High-Output on LT, Trail Boss, and ZR2 produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque — most powerful standard engine in the class
  • ZR2 and ZR2 Bison feature factory-fitted front and rear ARB air lockers with Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers — the most capable factory off-road mid-size truck
  • US-built in Wentzville, Missouri — tariff-immune under the current import schedule

Cons

  • 21 mpg combined (4x4) is the worst fuel economy in the segment — Tacoma hybrid returns 22 mpg and Ranger 23 mpg with comparable configurations
  • Interior quality on WT and base LT trims trails the updated Ford Ranger's SYNC 4 cabin and material refinement
  • No diesel option after GM discontinued the Duramax diesel for the Colorado in 2023; buyers wanting diesel must look at full-size options
  • ZR2 at $56K puts it in direct competition with the F-150 XLT without the full-size's towing headroom or payload

Best trim: Trail Boss 4x4

Trail Boss 4x4 is the mid-size truck for buyers who want off-road credibility and daily utility at around $45K. A factory 2-inch suspension lift, skid plates, electronic locking rear differential, and the 310-hp 2.7T High-Output come standard. Z71 is the appearance-package alternative for buyers who want the tow-sport look without the lifted suspension. ZR2 is the serious off-road option — ZR2 Bison adds AEV-engineered steel bumpers and under-body protection for class="relative z-10",500 more if trails are a regular destination.

What to cross-shop

  • Toyota Tacoma
  • Ford Ranger
  • Jeep Gladiator

Verdict

Buy the Colorado if maximum towing capacity and the highest engine output in the segment are your priorities. Tacoma wins on resale value and off-road brand prestige; Ranger wins on interior tech and the Raptor performance tier. Colorado wins on ZR2 off-road hardware and max tow rating — the Trail Boss is the daily-driver pick, ZR2 is for serious weekend off-roaders.

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