If you are looking for a truck that can do just about anything in a smaller package, take a peek at the new 2020 Chevy Colorado. This mid-size model is comparable to full-size competitors and is completely customizable to suit your driving needs. Whether you need to get your contraction crew to a job site or you simply want to take the kids to school, this beautiful beast is capable of both.
Depending on your lifestyle, you can choose from two body styles, five trims, and seven special editions. The extended cab can carry 2 to 4 passengers, and the crew cab provides an extra seat for the additional team member. Trim levels provide various comfort, entertainment, and convenience features. You can choose from the Base, Work Truck, LT, Z71, or ZR2.
It’s important to note that this vehicle is not limited to work. While it is optimized to make hard jobs easier, this model is also great for families who like to travel. With a towing range of 3,500 to 7,700 pounds, you can haul all of your adventure toys into the wild. For a weekend getaway at the lake, bring along your boat or a trailer with jet skis. For longer camping adventures, you can hook up your RV or load up a trailer with 4-wheelers. The sky is the limit when it comes to the 2020 Chevy Colorado.
Starting at
Chevy has appropriately enough titled the entry-level of the Colorado the Base, and it covers the basics drivers are looking for in a pickup. This model is offered only in an extended cab version. For those seeking a daily driver, don't have the need for a truly heavy-duty hauler or won't be driving off-road, the Base provides the simple amenities of a Chevy pickup at the most affordable price in the lineup.
The Base trim is powered by a 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine which generates 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque and is pushed by rear-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic transmission pairs up with the engine.
Even though the Base is the entry-level model, it's definitely no slouch when it comes to hauling cargo with a large bed and trailering capability. It's the only midsize truck with a built-in trailer brake controller. For easy loading and unloading of cargo in the large bed, the Base (along with all Colorado models) features Chevy’s signature CornerStep rear bumper and a locking tailgate. The Base provides stable and balanced driving via the StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control.
The Base also includes standard air conditioning, vinyl upholstery and floor covering (perfect for easy cleaning when you inevitably get this hard-working truck dirty), a four-way power adjustable driver's seat for maximum comfort and power windows.
On the safety and technology side, the Base offers a rearview camera, a clear and intuitive 7-inch touchscreen display with GM's new Infotainment 3 system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, four USB ports for device charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.
The WT model, which stands for the Work Truck, is a significant step up from the Base model of the Colorado, offered in both extended cab and crew cab styles, making it a good value for those who need a bit more versatility to get the job done. The WT offers the basic amenities that many pickup truck drivers will appreciate, and under the hood, there is a powerful 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine generating 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard for this model.
The WT features standard 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, upgraded carpet upholstery and floor covering, and power windows. Tech and safety features include GM's new Infotainment 3 system, which is presented on a large 7-inch touchscreen display with a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, four USB ports for keeping mobile devices charged and ready, and a six-speaker audio system. Easy loading and unloading of cargo in the WT can be accomplished through Chevy’s signature CornerStep rear bumper and a locking tailgate. The WT also drives steady thanks to the StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control.
The Work Truck can also be upgraded with a few additional technology items, additional engine options, and exterior styling tweaks to set it apart from the entry-level Base. Some of these features include remote keyless entry, cruise control, an EZ Lift tailgate, a remote locking tailgate, and GM's OnStar system with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity. Additional option packages for the WT model add such features as body-color door handles, aluminum wheels, skid plates, and interior illumination.
The LT trim of the Colorado brings the addition of two new engine options: a 3.6L V6 engine and a 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel 4-cylinder engine. The 3.6L V6 generates 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque and is paired up to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine generates 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque and comes with a six-speed automatic.
The LT also features larger 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, vinyl upholstery and floor covering, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and power windows. Tech and safety features include GM's new Infotainment 3 system incorporated into a large 8-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. There are also multiple USB ports for keeping mobile devices charged and ready, GPS navigation, and an upgraded audio system with satellite radio. Options available on the LT model include heated front seats, automatic climate control, and forward collision and lane departure warning systems.
Equipped with the V6 engine option, the Colorado offers high towing ratings of up to 7,000 pounds, and class-leading payload, and it's the only midsize truck with a built-in trailer brake controller.
For drivers looking to venture off the pavement without getting too hardcore about it, the off-road-ready Z71 will fit the bill over the other Colorado models. To tackle the rocks and roots, it comes with all-terrain tires as opposed to the standard all-season tires, an off-road-oriented suspension system, a locking rear differential, hill descent control, and unique interior upholstery.
In addition to the off-road enhancements, the Z71 also offers large 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an 8-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, and additional USB ports. Comfort and safety features include heated front seats, automatic climate control, and forward collision and lane departure warning systems. The Z71 also has an upgraded audio system and a navigation system to get you where you are going and back.
For this trim, you will have the choice of two engines. You can equip the Z71 with a powerful 3.6L V6 engine that gets up to 275 lb-ft of torque or an even more powerful Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine that can get up to 369 lb-ft of torque.
Equipped with the V6 engine option, the Colorado offers high towing ratings of up to 7,000 pounds. If powered by the 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine, towing capacity is boosted to an impressive 7,700 pounds.
This Colorado model provides the ultimate in off-road driving for those looking to explore way beyond the beaten path. To get you there and back, the ZR2 has a raised suspension with special dampers, larger all-terrain tires, fender flares, a special front and rear bumper to aid in achieving greater approach and departure angles, a spray-in bed liner, and an electronically locking rear differential. The ZR2 comes equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine generating 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque which is matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, but a 2.8L Turbo-Diesel with a 7,700-pound towing capacity is also available.
To complement its off-road prowess, the ZR2 also includes the creature comforts, technology, and safety features you've come to expect from Chevy's line of pickups. There are large 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an 8-inch touchscreen display with a rear view camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, and additional USB ports.
Folks up front can stay toasty with heated front seats and automatic climate control, and forward collision and lane departure warning systems keep both driver and passengers safe and secure on the road and off. The Z71 also has an upgraded audio system and a navigation system to aid in getting to your off-road destination.
If we are talking about power, the 2020 Chevy Colorado delivers all in all aspects of the term. You can choose from three robust engines, depending on how much power you actually need, and choose between rear-wheel and four-wheel-drive on all trims other than the base. The smallest option is a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 200 hp and 191 lb-ft of torque. Paired with rear-wheel-drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission, this version has a surprising fuel economy set at 23 mpg combined (20 city/26 highway). With the right towing equipment, it can haul up to 3,500 pounds, which is plenty for families.
The next engine is the 3.6L DOHC V6 that generates 308 hp (best-in-class) and 275 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive, it has a slightly lower fuel economy, depending on configuration, set at 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway). That’s still not bad for a vehicle of this magnitude. The V6 engine can also pull up to 7,000 pounds, which is perfect if you own a camper.
The third engine option is the turbocharged Duramax 2.8L diesel motor that produces 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. This beast also proudly boasts a best-in-class fuel economy set at 25 mpg combined (20 city/30 highway, and it can tow up to 7,700 pounds. If you are looking for a truck that can do all the hard work without breaking a sweat, this might just be the best choice for you.
No matter which engine you go with, all 2020 Chevy Colorado models come with a firmly-tuned suspension that enables you to take on curvy roads with ease. For the supreme stopping power, the responsive 4-wheel antilock disc brakes will bring this heavy ride to a complete halt quickly.
When you slip behind the wheel of the 2020 Chevy Colorado, the only difference from the inside based on the body style is the seating. As previously touched on, the extended cab can seat 2 to 4 passengers, while the crew cab can carry five. To truly see the cabin differences, you need to look closely at the various trim levels.
The first trim level is called Base, and it’s the only model with vinyl upholstery and flooring. While this doesn’t sound fancy, it is very easy to clean. If you have children, pets, or you need this vehicle for agriculture or construction work, a vinyl-covered interior might save you from a lot of cleaning headaches. Mud can be hosed out, drink spills can be wiped off, and you won’t have to worry about stains. This model also has a 6-speaker stereo system, Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with a 7 inch color touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.
If you want something a little nicer on the inside but still not too nice for dirty jobs, the Work Truck trim level is your best bet. Cloth upholstery covers the seats, and the carpeted floors have mats to protect them from damage. The back seats also have under-seat compartments for additional storage.
For more tech upgrades, the LT trim features the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System. The infotainment system has been upbraded to an 8-inch touchscreen, and has an optional premium 7-speaker Bose stereo that delivers high-quality sound. There is even a 4G LTE Wifi hotspot, four USB ports, and two 12-volt power outlets for charging your mobile devices. An HD rearview camera has also been added to assist with parallel street parking and backing out of tight or crowded spaces.
If you are looking for a little more luxury, the 2020 Chevy Colorado Z71 is a great choice. The cabin boasts chrome accents and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a sophisticated look and feel. For comfort during the winter months, the seats have a heating feature.
If that’s not enough for your refined taste, you might want to take a look at the ZR2 model. This cream-of-the-crop version features heated, leather seats and a sizable floor console for extra storage space. You can also opt for a navigation system.
Many of these trim levels come with several safety features, and those that don’t can have them added on. Forward collision alert, lane-departure warning, rear vision camera, and rear parking assist are just a few of the advanced safety features that may be included in your vehicle.
As you now already know, the 2020 Chevy Colorado is available in two body styles: extended and crew cabs. The extended cab is built with two doors and has a 6.1-ft bed. The crew cab is a four-door design with the choice of a short (5.1-ft) bed or a long (6.1-ft) bed.
As for appearances, the exterior styling elements vary based on the trim level. The Base offers a lockable tailgate, a chrome grille, black door handles, and a CornerStep rear bumper. The Work Truck adds enhancements for optimal towing capacity with two front tow hooks and the Class IV hitch. The LT trim has a more uniformed appearance with body-colored, door handles, mirror caps, and rear bumper. For a sportier look, the Z71 rides on unique 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires that are optimal for off-roading. It also features heated side mirrors and a blackened grille. The top-tier ZR2 is fitted with black fender flares and black front and rear bumpers for an aggressive exterior look. It also features a protective bedliner and skid plates to protect against damage to the truck’s bed and underside.
The 2020 Chevy Colorado is available in 10 paint colors, including Black, Shadow Gray Metallic, Satin Steel Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Pacific Blue Metallic, Kinetic Blue Metallic, Cajun Red Tintcoat, Red Hot, and Crush.
As previously mentioned, there are seven special editions that you can choose from for a more customized vehicle. Each one is unique in its own way.
If you are looking for something dramatic to make a lasting first impression, the RST special edition is a great choice. Available on the LT trim, the bold grille features the Chevrolet name in all caps and black bodyside moldings. Riding on 20-inch black wheels, this model features its own unique badging as well.
The Trail Runner is similar to the ZR2 in exterior appearance, but it also adds the Chevrolet nameplate grille from the RST package and high-performance Goodyear Duratrac tires.
If you want a truck with a sporty flair, the Redline special edition is the way to go. Its contrasting color palette features black side steps, door handles, mirror caps, window trim, and grille while red accents decorate the recovery hooks and wheels. Available on the LT trim, it also has an added bedliner to protect the bed from scratches.
For a more professional look, the Colorado Custom is a great choice. This special edition package is only available on Work Truck models and features body-colored rear bumpers, mirror caps, door handles, and grille. It also features 18-inch aluminum wheels painted in dark gray.
If you want to add a little mystery to your 2020 Chevy Colorado, the Z71 Midnight edition will do the trick. This blacked-out model will give off a dark sense of intrigue everywhere you go.
Lastly, the ZR2 Dusk and Midnight special editions take that mysterious, black-out aesthetic to the next level by adding a sport bar with LED lighting and unique 17-inch 5-spoke wheels.