Chevrolet Colorado

Looking much like the full-sized Silverado, the redesigned midsized Colorado pickup truck comes only in a crew-cab, short-bed configuration with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 237 or 310 hp, and an eight-speed automatic. The 310 hp variant of the engine became standard for 2025. There is a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. Competing directly with the Ford Ranger, the line has three trims (out of five) that are offered strictly in 4WD, each with a rising level of capability. Every Colorado features an 11-inch infotainment screen, with related apps for off-roading and trailering. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but BSW and RCTW were optional until they became standard for the 2025 model year.

While this version of the Chevrolet Colorado represented the first redesign of the model in 11 years, the fact that it topped the class was due more to the mediocrity of its competitors than to its inherent excellence. While we really want to like this truck, we just can't. The 305 hp V6 is short on low-end torque and the ride quality is rife with choppiness and jostling. Interior quality is low as well. On the positive side, the 3.6-liter V6 has a lot more power than the base four-cylinder engine, yet its EPA numbers show little drop in fuel economy. If you plan to tow a trailer, look for one with the trailering package. Updates for 2016 include Apple CarPlay and an available 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. An eight-speed automatic and more power on the V6 arrived for 2017. Updates for the 2020 model year include a new Infotainment system and an available locking tail gate. 2021 models get a mildly refreshed exterior.