2021 Chevrolet Colorado

What Is the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?

The Chevrolet Colorado mid-size pickup is available with rear- or four-wheel drive and seats up to five. It comes in extended-cab form with a 6-foot-2-inch bed or as a crew cab with a 5-foot-2-inch or 6-foot-2-inch bed. Three engines are offered: a 200-horsepower, gas 2.5-liter four-cylinder; a 308-hp, gas 3.6-liter V-6 or a 181-hp, turbo-diesel 2.8-liter four-cylinder. The base gas four-cylinder and turbo-diesel engine team with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the gas V-6 pairs with an eight-speed automatic.

Off-road enthusiasts should take note of the ZR2 and ZR2 Bison models with their advanced, lifted heavy-duty suspension, wider track widths, front and rear locking differentials and aggressive exterior styling. Colorado competitors include the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier and Ford Ranger. The Colorado is very similar to the GMC Canyon.

What’s New on the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?

All models get freshened styling with a new grille, front bumper and tailgate. A 1-inch front leveling kit is available as a dealer-installed option, and LT and higher trim levels get an updated 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system. 

What Features in the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Are Most Important?

• Standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity
• Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot (data subscription required after trial)
• Available automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning
• Available turbo-diesel engine includes exhaust brake

2021 Chevrolet Colorado Vs. 2021 Ford Ranger: How Do They Compare?

Both the Colorado and Ranger are good choices among mid-size pickups with more than adequate power, payload and towing capacities. The Colorado offers more engine choices, including a diesel, while the Ranger is only available with a turbocharged four-cylinder. The Chevrolet also has a nicer, more modern interior. We’ve noticed an annoying low-speed vibration in multiple Rangers we’ve tested, so be on the lookout for it if you take one for a test drive. 

Should I Buy the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?

The small pickup truck class has gotten more competitive with the return of the Ranger, but the Chevrolet Colorado remains a good truck that’s worth a look thanks to its variety of engine choices and impressive capability. What’s more, the Colorado ZR2’s off-road prowess continues to impress. On the downside, the gas four-cylinder is a bit sluggish.