The Chevy Colorado has been a popular choice for those in need of a mid-size pickup truck for the past 20 years. The latest third-generation model has several improvements over its predecessor, making it a strong contender against competitors like the Honda Ridgeline and Jeep Gladiator.
In this article, we will walk you through how to choose the right Colorado model and package options to fit your specific needs and budget. From convenience packages to off-road features, there are several choices to consider before making your final decision.
Choosing the Right Model
The Colorado is available in several trim levels, ranging from the base Work Truck (WT) to the luxurious ZR2. The Trail Boss, which combines the off-road attitude of the ZR2 with a lower price tag, is a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a more budget-friendly option, the WT model provides plenty of features at an affordable price. It comes standard with an 11.3-inch touchscreen and a digital gauge display, giving it a modern look and feel. We recommend adding the WT Convenience and Convenience II packages, which include remote locking tailgate, a manual sliding rear window, and a tailgate with an integrated storage cubby, as well as an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.
If you’re looking for a more capable off-road truck, the Trail Boss is an excellent choice. It has 1.5 inches of extra suspension travel up front, an extra inch in the rear, and four-wheel drive. The limited-slip differential from the Z71 adds extra capability. However, keep in mind that the Trail Boss doesn’t come with LED headlights, which is a bit of a letdown.
Package Options
Several package options are available for the Colorado, allowing you to customize your truck to fit your specific needs. Here are a few packages we recommend:
Safety Package
– For extra peace of mind, we recommend adding the Safety package, which includes heated and power-adjustable exterior mirrors with black-painted caps, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert with automated emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.
Technology Package
The Technology package is an excellent addition for those who value advanced safety features. It includes adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert, and a 360-degree exterior camera system.
Advanced Trailering Package
If you plan to tow, we recommend adding the Advanced Trailering package, which includes an integrated trailer brake controller.
LT Convenience II Package
This package includes thicker-sidewalled 17-inch wheels, which are ideal for those driving on rough roads. It also includes other convenient features such as a tailgate with an integrated storage cubby.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Chevy Colorado model and package options can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By prioritizing your needs and budget, you can select the right combination of features to fit your specific requirements. Remember to weigh the pros and cons of each option and test drive your choices to make sure they fit your driving style. With the right model and package options, you’ll have a reliable and capable mid-size pickup truck that can handle anything you throw its way.