2016 Chevrolet Colorado Expert Review
In addition to an improved driver information display, the MyLink infotainment system in the 2016 Colorado now features Apple CarPlay and smartphone projection technology. The most significant update is the addition of a third engine option, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel I-4.
Vehicle Summary
The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize truck available in rear- or four-wheel-drive configurations. Two cab styles and bed lengths are available but shorter 5'2" bed is only available in the crew cab.
Overview
In addition to the new turbodiesel engine, the 2016 Colorado is also available with a 200-hp 2.5-liter I-4 with 191 lb-ft and a 3.6-liter V-6 rated at 305 hp and 269 lb-ft. A six-speed manual is standard with the four-cylinder while a six-speed automatic is optional. Colorados equipped with the more powerful V-6 engines are only available with an automatic. Fuel economy is competitive for the class with the rear-drive I-4-equipped model being the most efficient at 20/27 mpg city/highway. Opting for the manual drops those numbers down to 19/26 mpg while four-wheel-drive Colorados with the I-4 are rated at 19/25. V-6-equipped Colorados don't take a large hit in fuel economy compared to variants with the I-4 at 18/26 mpg for the rear-drive models and 17/24 mpg with four-wheel drive.
Cargo capacity is generous at 41.3 cubic feet with short bed and 49.9 cubic feet with the long bed. The most capable Colorados when it comes to hauling trailers are the trucks equipped with the 305-hp V-6, which are capable of hauling up to 7,000 pounds with the Z82 Trailering package. Trucks without the Z82 Trailering package are only able to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Safety
Standard safety features include dual front, front-side and side curtain airbags. In the LT trim, the Safety package is available and comes with forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
Trims, Packages, and What's Standard
Standard equipment on the base Colorado include a single USB port, a 4.2-inch display, a six-speaker audio system, a rearview camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, vinyl and upholstery. The WT trim adds a folding rear bench on crew cab models, front and rear carpeted floor mats, and second row under seat storage. Stepping up to the LT variant adds 17-inch aluminum wheels, Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system featuring an eight-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, four USB ports, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, keyless entry, cruise control, and power-folding side mirrors. Options available for the LT trim include the Luxury package, which adds power front passenger seats, heated front seats, projector headlights, and automatic climate control. The LT Convenience package adds a rear-window defogger, front fog lights, remote start, and the EZ-Lift tailgate. Navigation is available and is bundled together with the Bose seven-speaker audio system.
The range-topping Z71 is the most capable and comes with an off-road suspension package, an automatic locking rear differential, a transfer case shield for four-wheel drive variants, 17-inch alloy wheels, remote start, automatic climate control, power adjustable front seats, and an electric rear-window defogger. Those looking for even more capability should consider Z71 Trail Boss Edition package, which adds Goodyear Wrangle DuraTrac all-terrain tires, assist steps, all-weather floor mats, spray-on bedliner, and moveable cargo tie-down rings, and a cargo divider.
What We Think
In a 2015 Colorado Z71 First Test review, we were impressed by the truck's available V-6 engine, which provided plenty of power. Additionally, the truck handled well, with little body roll, making it drive smaller than it actually is. However, the Colorado's throttle response was leisurely and the six-speed automatic had the tendency to be lazy. In a 2015 Colorado WT First Test review, we lauded the truck's comfortable ride and gets off the line without drama even with the less powerful 2.5-liter I-4. The Colorado's car-like ride also means that it's also easier to maneuver through tight spaces or parallel parking. In a comparison test that also included the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, the Colorado won because of its excellent driving dynamics, well-built cabin, and comfortable seating for front and rear passengers.
The Chevrolet Colorado was the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year.
Cool Fact
In the Asian market, the 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine is the Chevrolet Colorado's most popular engine option.
Key Competitors
- Toyota Tacoma
- GMC Canyon
- Nissan Frontier
- Used full-size truck