"Versatile crew cab, peppy and powerful V-6, off-roadable ZR2." - Car and Driver

Midsize pickup truck, the 2020 Chevy Colorado is available in several trims. But before you choose one you must decide which configuration you want to go with as it is offered in two body style- Extended cab and Crew-cab with two-bed lengths- 6 feet 2 inch and 5 feet 1 inch. The five trims offered are Base, Work Truck (WT), LT, Z71, and ZR2.

In the three engine options, you get a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine which is standard on all the Extended cab version except the ZR2, which comes standard with 3.6-liter V-6 with a choice of 6-speed automatic or manual transmission. The 3.6-liter V-6 with an 8-speed automatic is mandatory with the Crew cab configuration. There is also a Turbodiesel 2.8-liter inline-4 which is optional on all but the base trim.

Trims	Base	WT	LT	Z71	ZR2
MSRP	$21,195	$24,695	$28,095	$30,695	$41,395
Features	Chevrolet Infotainment 7-inch diagonal color touchscreens	Dual rear seats with under-seat storage	2020 LT models include all WT features plus:	Top-line Z71 models include all LT features plus:	Colorado ZR2 in addition to or replacing Z71 features:
	Two USB data ports	Folding rear bench seat (Crew Cab).	Mirror caps and door handles	Chevrolet Infotainment 8-inch touchscreen	AutoTrac System
	SD card reader and auxiliary input jack		MyLink Radio with an 8-inch diagonal color touch-screen display	Limited-Slip Differential	Exclusive Interior and Exterior Accents
	4-way power-adjustable driver seat		Remote Keyless Entry	1/4-inch Skidplate	Independently lockable front and rear differentials
	4-wheel antilock disc brakes with Duralife brake rotors

We Recommend

We would recommend the Colorado LT with a crew cab, 3.6-liter V-6, and AWD, at an MSRP of $28,095. It comes with seating for five along with quick acceleration and excellent towing power-up to 7000 pounds. The LT comes at a low price and with all the engine options, so you can customize it according to your needs. Moreover, it comes fitted with most of the comfort and convenience features that Colorado has to offer.

"The potent yet efficient Turbodiesel four-cylinder is a compelling alternative, especially if you plan to do a lot of towing.” -Edmunds

Engine and Transmission of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

The GM-exclusive Duramax 2.8-liter turbo diesel available for the 2020 Chevy Colorado is quiet, smooth, and refined, ranging between $21,195-$41,395. It comes with outstanding power delivery and the roaring diesel soundtrack will keep reminding you about the under the hood power which you otherwise won’t get in a Toyota. However, the V-6 mated to the 8-speed automatic transmission is also as capable to satisfy the power need. Both the engine feels responsive and easily maneuverable whether you are in the city or taking on rocky terrain.

You can choose from the three-engine option that the Chevy has to offer. The base engine is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder churning out 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission; however, a six-speed automatic is optional. Engine power is enough for day-to-day driving but if you want your Colorado to tow and haul then you will need to look for something more powerful.

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
MSRP	$31,200	$34,520	$35,800	$34,100
Engine	3.6L V6	3.5L V6	3.6L V6	3.8L V6
Transmission	8-speed automatic	6-speed manual	8-speed automatic	9-speed automatic
Power (hp@RPM)	308 hp @ 6300 RPM	278 hp @ 6000 RPM	308 hp @ 6800 RPM	310 hp @ 5600 RPM
Torque (lb-ft@RPM)	275 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM	265 lb-ft @ 4600 RPM	275 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM	281 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

Colorado’s power comes with the 3.6-liter V-6 that puts out 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, and it's matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Transmission feels smooth and the engine feels strong while towing maximum capacity. Chevy has also provided an optional 2.8-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine that is good enough, to say the least for regular towing and hauling. It produces 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque and is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Ride and Handling of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

We now know all about the engines and their specifications, so now let’s see how it performs while off-roading and which is the best trim suited for the job. The Colorado Z71s with raised suspension, exclusive dampers, and limited-slip rear differential will do the job for you. Equipped with DuraTrac tires this midsize hauler is powerful enough to pull itself from any sticky situation.

The top of the trim ZR2 is special in its own way it comes with an off-road appearance package and a Multimatic DSSV damping system. The damping systems are extremely quick to react to any kind of suspension movement making the ZR2 a serious off-roader that a die-hard adventurer will definitely appreciate.

Acceleration of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

The powerful engine of the Chevy Colorado with six-speed transmission helps it sprint to 0 to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds which is the best in the class. However, it gets competition from Toyota Tacoma which is slow initially but it picks up speed later to complete a quarter-mile in 14.7 seconds as compared to Colorado’s 16.2 seconds. The V-6 engine in Colorado makes it feel light and full of power and hits 0-60 in 6.7-seconds.

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
0-60 MPH (seconds)	8.1 sec	9.8 sec	9.0 sec	7.5 sec
Quarter mile (seconds)	16.2 sec @ 84 mph	14.7 sec @ 91 mph	17.1 sec @ 82.4 mph	16.5 sec @ 90 mph
Engine	3.6L V6	3.5L V6	3.6L V6	3.8L V6
Emission Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year	8.1	8.4	8.1	8.4

Equipped with a 310 hp engine the 2020 Nissan Frontier proves to be the segment leader in terms of acceleration taking just 7.5 seconds to go to 60 mph. This segment of pickup trucks need not necessarily be fast, given that they serve their purpose of towing and hauling. The 2020 Chevy Colorado ranks second clocking 60 mph in 8.1 seconds. Leaving behind the GMC Canyon and the Toyota Tacoma in 3rd and 4th position.

Braking and Handling of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

Colorado feels confident in corners as the strong suspension keeps the body roll in check. You will feel the light rear end breaking traction when the bed is unloaded, but stability control keeps that in control. The eight-speed transmission does the job well and the acceleration feels spontaneous. Colorado also maintains its steady speed while climbing the hills. Electric power steering feels light allowing the truck to maneuver smoothly around town and highway.

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
Brake pads-front(in)	12.2	10.8	12.2	11.10
Brake pads Rear(in)	12.8	10.0	12.7	11.30
Curb weight(lbs)	4419	4425	4488	4525
60-0 MPH (ft.)	124	119	121	125

Brake pedals feel stiff while hard braking, however, it performs well under normal driving conditions. Colorado stops from 60 mph in 124 feet which is good, whereas Toyota Tacoma leads the pack with the best stopping distance.

The towing capacity of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

If Towing is the need of the hour for you then go for the GM-exclusive Duramax 2.8-liter engine with a towing capacity of 7,600 pounds. It offers best-in-class towing power and torque, making Chevy Colorado America’s most fuel-efficient pick-up truck. Equip Colorado with a V-6 and you get a towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, but the base engine cuts the towing capacity to almost half (3,500).

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
DriveTrain	4WD	4WD	4WD	RWD
Engine	3.6L V6	3.5L V6	3.6L V6	3.8L V6
Weight (lbs)	7600	6400	7600	6500

With a class-leading towing capacity of 7,600 pounds, you may never have to think twice when hitching cargo to the back of Colorado. The pickup is adept to tow any cargo safely, thanks to its trailer sway and traction control system. The AWD provides plenty of traction, keeping the slip of the tow in check when braking. Additionally, the 3.6L V6 provides plenty of power to prevent any lag when towing.

The payload capacity of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

Even though it sports a not-so-impressive bed size, it is actually capable of hauling a lot of payload in the back. The capability is further enhanced if you go for the optional Bed Panel Reinforcement package. It adds two 5-foot fleetside steel plates to ensure none of the cargo tips over or gets spilled when going over speedbumps.

Model	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
Payload capacity (lbs)	1511 lbs	1175 lbs	1481 lbs	1360 lbs

The 2020 Chevy Colorado records the best in class payload capacity of 1511 lbs, close behind is its cousin the, 2020 GMC Canyon with a paying load capacity of 1481 lbs. The Nissan Frontier ranks third with a capacity of 1360 pounds. Leaving behind the Toyota Tacoma that can haul only 1175 pounds.

"The Colorado's forgettable gas-powered four-cylinder has EPA ratings of up to 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway with the automatic." - Car and Driver

The 2.8-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder gets the best mileage as it earns an EPA rating of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg on the highway, which is exceptional for a compact pickup truck. The base engine, when compared with competitors does not feel lazy either. Its estimated EPA ratings are 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined is the best in the class. The down performer is the V-6 which has the worst EPA rating of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
Mpg city mpg	17	18	17	18
Mpg highway mpg	24	22	24	24
Mpg combine mpg	19	20	19	20

When compared with the competition, the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ranks a little low in terms of fuel efficiency. It is out-performed by the 2020 Toyota Tacoma and the 2020 Nissan Frontier, not a surprise to see the Japanese being efficient while the Americans focus on power delivery and serving the purpose effectively.  The 2020 Nissan Frontier proves to be the best with a combined reading of 20 miles to a gallon and a highway MPG return of 24 miles to a gallon.

"The Colorado even comes with premium features like heated seats, Apple CarPlay, and an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Yet it maintains the expected ruggedness of a truck, with tough-feeling plastics, durable seat upholstery, and touches like the foldable rear seat." Kelley Blue Book

Seating and Comfort of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

The Chevy Colorado 2020 comes with zero changes and the interior still giving the feel of a full-size truck. There are hard plastics inside which you otherwise would expect in a truck, however, the cabin noise is minimal and you feel comfortable. The front seats are spacious and the rear seats can easily accommodate adults. Colorado comes with two-bed lengths (6.2 feet and 5.1 feet) and various tech features are offered.

The 2020 Chevy truck vaunts the most spacious cabin in its class. There are two seating options to select from - the extended cab models offer four seats while the crew cab comes with five seats. The rear seats in the extended cab are too tight and you would not love to spend too much time there.

So, if you are someone who often goes out on family trips then opt for the Crew cab. The driving position is upright and comfortable and with all the controls within reach. Front seats and steering can be adjusted according to your comfort.

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	41.4/57.5/45.0	39.7/58.3/42.9	41.4/57.5/45.0	39.7/58.3/42.4
Rear (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38/56.2/35.8	38.3/58.9/32.6	38/56.2/35.8	38.6/58.3/33.6

In terms of interior space offered it is the General Motors siblings that have the most to offer. The 2020 Colorado and Canyon record identical cabin dimensions and leave behind the Nissan Frontier and the Toyota Tacoma by a couple of inches.

Infotainment of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

Chevy Colorado is a pick-up truck that also makes you feel connected. The Mylink infotainment touch screen although it feels sluggish to respond. You get the 7-inch touchscreen in the base trim and an optional 8-inch screen is available in the LT trim and higher. Other infotainment features include:

• Bluetooth streaming
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Two USB ports front and two optional in the back
• Auxiliary Cable Input
• Voice Recognition System
• Bluetooth Audio Streaming
• AM/FM/HD Radio
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio

"Sporting muscular-yet-curvy good looks, the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado is one of the best-looking trucks out there, whether you’re hauling stuff or getting dirty off-road." -The Car Connection

Design and Styling of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

At the front, there is a wide headlight with a big chrome grille. You get a massive taillight and a rear bumper at the back. The base trim and WT trims look practical while the monochrome finish and alloy wheels on the LT trim are worth the money. Z71 feels sturdy but the Colorado ZR2 with its high stance and better ground clearance makes you feel more planted.

Models	2020 Chevrolet Colorado	2020 Toyota Tacoma	2020 GMC Canyon	2020 Nissan Frontier
curb weight(lbs)	3986	4425	4488	4525
Length(in)	212.7	212.3	212.4	219.4
Width(in)	74.3	75.2	74.3	72.8
Height(in)	70.4	70.6	70.6	70.1
Ground clearance(in)	8.4	9.4	8.2	8.7
Wheelbase(in)	128.3	127.4	128.3	139.9
Track width(in) F/R	62.4/62.4	63.0/63.2	62.4/62.4	61.8/61.8

Wheel sizes for the pick-up truck range from 16-inches ultra-silver metallic steel wheels with all-season Blackwall tires on the base to 17-inch aluminum wheels with all-terrain Blackwall tires in the top trims. There is also an optional 18-inch 5-spoke polished wheel available but that only comes with the Centennial Edition package. The Goodyear DuraTrac tires on the Z71 with the best off-roading capabilities are powerful enough to pull the truck out of any situation.

Exterior Features of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

Colorado definitely attracts you as a compact pick-up truck but it does not look as bold for a truck as the Toyota Tacoma. Its swoopy styling is for functionality rather than form. Increased wheel arches, modified bumpers and a hood scoop on the ZR2 is not just there for visual appearance for they are all functional. The ZR2 exterior feature includes:

• 17-inch wheels
• A bed-mounted spare-tire carrier
• 2.0-inch lift that lifts 31-inch off-road tires
• Front and rear locking differential for standard AWD

"In a curious move, the Colorado's two driver-assist items—lane-departure warning and forward-collision warning—are only optional on LT models and not available at all on the pricier Z71." - Car and Driver

The safety rating of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

There is a reason to be worried if you are inside Colorado as it has not performed well in the NHSTA crash rating with an overall rating of four-star. It also lacks advanced collision avoidance tech which is common in a large number of cars these days. IIHS has also rated its headlight as “poor” and front crash prevention as “basic”. Chevy covers Colorado with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/ 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2020 Colorado gets the GM’s Tee Driver system as standard which allows the parent to monitor the speed and location of the truck, also mute the radio till all the passengers have put their seatbelts on. What comes as a tricky decision is that the LT model gets lane departure warning and forward collision warning as optional which is not available for the higher trim Z71.

The safety features of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

• StabiliTrak electronic stability control system
• All-speed traction control
• Daytime Running Lamps
• 6 airbags
• Rear Vision Camera
• Teen Driver
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

2020 Chevrolet Colorado Vs 2020 Toyota Tacoma

The Tacoma can handle any terrain with ease and is the most capable off-roader in the class. As we have discussed earlier that the Colorado did not impress with the safety features whereas the Tacoma offers great safety scores with added features like Siri Eyes Free and GoPro camera mount. However, Chevy inches ahead of the Toyota when it comes to interior comfort and rear space and is also available at $4,000 less. If you are looking for a serious off-roader go with the Tacoma otherwise, Colorado is a great value for money.

2020 Chevrolet Colorado Vs 2020 GMC Canyon

The engine's the same, towing capacity almost identical, pricing – not much difference, so what’s the major difference between the two cousins? It’s the cabin quality, Colorado’s interior is value for money but Canyon offers more refinement and plush design, especially in the Denali trim. So, it is up to you to decide which of these pick-up trucks you want.

2020 Chevrolet Colorado Vs 2020 Nissan Frontier

Nissan Frontier feels outdated and outclassed in many areas when compared to its rivals. There are no modern engine options and it also lacks the latest safety assist which is found on the Chevy Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, and the GMC Canyon. The Frontier is also the shortest of the lot so space is also a concern. However, its towing and payload capacity is impressive and it outperforms the Tacoma and Canyon in carrying weight. Being the cheapest in class it can sure be a good choice considering its strength.

 

The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado feels appealing due to its car-like maneuverability and fuel efficiency. With three engine options and an array of cab and bed configurations available to choose from the Chevy midsize truck is worthy of doing all sorts of the job. Especially when it is offered at an MSRP range of $21,195-$41,395.