2021 Chevy Colorado Review

Name: 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Review
Brand: Chevrolet

Price Range: $21,995 - $38,590

Chevrolet Colorado LT Crew Cab Pickup Exterior Shown

Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck Crew Cab Pickup Shown

Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab Pickup Exterior

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Crew Cab Pickup Exterior

+203

We like the Colorado a lot. The crew-cab cabin is spacious, and the tech interface is straightforward and effective. Compared to the Honda Ridgeline, Jeep Gladiator and Toyota Tacoma, the Colorado occupies a nice middle ground. It's a well-rounded truck, providing a little bit of something for everyone and compromises very little along the way.Read full review

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Chevrolet Colorado model years

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Chevrolet Colorado types

Crew Cab
Extended Cab

2021 Chevrolet Colorado Review

byTravis Langness^{Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.}

Pros

Gasoline V6 and diesel four-cylinder engines tow more than rivals
Maneuverable size along with well-mannered steering and handling
Comfortable ride over most surfaces
Simple, easy-to-use cabin controls

Cons

Front seats can feel confining for larger people
Rivals offer more in-cab storage with rear seats folded
Low-hanging front airdam limits off-road potential

What's new

New front-end design and stamped Chevrolet logo across the tailgate
The base model has been eliminated from the lineup
Changes to standard and optional equipment availability
Part of the second Colorado generation introduced in 2015

Overview

The Colorado is Chevrolet's midsize pickup and, for the 2021 model year, brings a new look to the streets and trails. Instead of the previous Chevrolet emblem on its rear, it now has the word "Chevrolet" embossed across the tailgate. It also gets a new front-end look with more pronounced styling details for the Colorado's different trim levels.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab SB (2.5L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.20 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$184/mo

$220/mo

Avg. Compact Truck

Calculate my fuel costs

More substantial changes appear on the Colorado ZR2, the extreme off-road version of the truck. For 2021, the ZR2's new front fascia has a more prominent, wide-open grille that stretches out wider and lower than the previous version. The rest of the 2021 Colorado is pretty much the same. It offers impressive towing and hauling capability and an optional diesel engine, which is rare for a midsize truck.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' experts owned and tested a Colorado ZR2 for more than two years and 50,000 miles. Want to know what it was like to head off-road in the ZR2 or how it dealt with the urban jungle? Read our long-term Colorado ZR2 test to learn more. Note that while we tested a 2017 truck, the 2021 Colorado is of the same generation and most of our reporting still applies.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Average

7.6

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8.0/10

How does the Colorado drive? Our 4WD ZR1 test truck had the available 3.6-liter V6 engine. At our test track, 0-60 mph took 7.3 seconds, which is a respectable time for a midsize truck. On inclines, there's no real issue of the transmission hunting for gears, but it is occasionally reluctant to downshift on flat roads. The brakes are predictable and easy to control in routine driving.

Body roll is tamed by the firm suspension tuning, so you can hustle the Colorado along a curvy road with confidence. Thinking about going off-road? The low front airdam limits off-road clearance, but you can remove it in about 30 minutes. Even with a single-mode traction control, the Z71 can cope with wheel lift in rocky terrain because of the standard locking rear differential.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the Colorado? The Colorado offers a better ride quality than many competitors in its class, and it smooths out large bumps and small cracks with equal ease. Climate control and seat adjustability are basic, but drivers used to piloting pickups should be comfortable. The front seats are firm and nicely shaped, but larger drivers might find them a little confining. The rear bench is harder and its backrest is a bit too upright. The heated seats and steering wheel work well and are easy to operate.

The Colorado's cabin lets in a bit of wind, road and engine noise, but nothing close to levels that will cause passengers to raise their voices. The tall gearing of the eight-speed transmission does a lot to keep the engine quiet when cruising.

Interior

8.0/10

How’s the interior? The Colorado is a high vehicle and steps are optional, so getting in and out might be a reach for some. The front doors open wide, but the rear door openings are narrow, so entry there will be harder. The same problems carry over inside, with a good amount of room in the front seat but limited space in the back, even in the crew cab.

The driving position is high, and there's a commanding view of the road, with a nice range of adjustability in the optional tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The large pillars, however, hurt outward visibility. When it comes to interior controls, everything is easy to reach, and most controls are well labeled and generously sized.

Technology

8.0/10

How’s the tech? Chevrolet offers solid in-car technology. The touchscreen interface is rich with features and easy to use, with snappy responses and clear graphics. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard. The optional Bose system is a nice upgrade, but volume doesn't get as high as we'd like. For phones, there are two USB ports and a wireless charging pad up front, available rear charging ports and a 110-volt outlet. Chevy's Wi-Fi hotspot setup is also one of the easier systems to use — it offers a 4G LTE connection and can handle up to seven devices.

Forward collision alert and lane departure warning are optional and a bit sensitive, but they work as advertised. Otherwise, we'd like to see blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control included on the options list since many other competitors offer these features.

Towing and Storage

7.5/10

How are the towing and storage? The Colorado offers high towing ratings (7,000 pounds with the V6 and 7,700 pounds with the optional diesel) and class-leading payload, and it's the only midsize truck with a built-in trailer brake controller.

Troublingly, though, the bed is relatively narrow with high sides, making it difficult to load. Inside, the rear seats don't fold flat, and there are no clever compartments for larger items. But there are plenty of places for small items, including a cellphone tray next to the USB port, door pockets that are cleverly tiered, and generously sized cupholders. For child seats, the outboard rear seats offer car seat points, but the tether anchors are difficult to access and rear-seat space is limited.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The Chevy's fuel economy is slightly above the segment average, especially with the diesel. A 4WD V6 has an EPA estimate of 19 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway). We handily matched this figure during our mixed-driving test route.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Colorado a good value? Value for the money is a tough proposition here. The cabin is full of hard plastics and generally cheap-feeling surfaces, but the Colorado seems solidly put together and feels modern enough to beat the Frontier and the Ranger. Then, there's the issue of off-road usability compared to the Tacoma and the lack of practicality and livability compared to the Ridgeline — it seems to fall right in the middle.

Pricing is competitive for the segment with a basic three-year/36,000-mile warranty and an impressive two years of maintenance covered up front. Roadside assistance (with towing) is covered for five years/60,000 miles.

Wildcard

7.0/10

Most Colorados on the road are going to be utilitarian players, offering a very specific set of skills for owners and doing so without really wowing anyone. Sure, the bonkers ZR2 is fun to look at, and it can go bouncing around the rockiest trails without an issue, but most shoppers will opt for less capable, less expensive trim levels. If what you want is a road-duty truck that looks like a truck but isn't as big as a full-size truck, the Colorado is your niche player.

Which Colorado does Edmunds recommend?

Get the midlevel LT trim for a solid all-around truck. You get some appealing features on the LT that don't come on the base Work Truck model, such as cruise control and a remote-locking tailgate. It also grants access to options such as automatic climate control and the upgraded 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. And if you're having trouble choosing from the Colorado's engines, we recommend the upgraded V6. The diesel gives the Colorado an undeniable big-rig vibe, but it's hard to justify considering its substantial price tag.

2021 Chevrolet Colorado models

The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup offered in extended-cab and crew-cab body styles. There are two bed lengths (short bed and long bed) and four trim levels available: Work Truck (WT), LT, Z71 and ZR2. The WT includes many of the basics, and it comes standard with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine (200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque) that's paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Optional engines for most of the 2021 Colorado lineup include either a 3.6-liter V6 (308 hp, 275 lb-ft) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission or a turbocharged 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine (181 hp, 369 lb-ft) paired to a six-speed automatic. Most Colorado configurations come standard with rear-wheel drive and offer optional four-wheel drive.

Standard features for the base WT include:

Air conditioning
Cloth upholstery and vinyl floor covering
Power windows
Tilt-only steering wheel
7-inch infotainment system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Two USB ports and a six-speaker sound system

The Work Truck can also be equipped with a few features that make it feel less basic. Notable options include:

Remote keyless entry
Cruise control
EZ Lift tailgate
Remote-locking tailgate
OnStar telematics and 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity

The LT adds most of the above options, plus:

Leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
Power-adjustable driver's seat
8-inch touchscreen
Two additional USB ports

LT options include:

Heated front seats
Automatic climate control
Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time)
Seven-speaker Bose sound system

The somewhat off-road-ready Z71 comes standard with most of the LT's optional equipment, and it also gets:

All-terrain tires
Off-road-oriented suspension
Locking rear differential and hill descent control
Unique upholstery
Wireless charging pad

If you want a real-deal off-roader, the ZR2 is your truck. The ZR2 builds on the Z71's equipment by adding:

V6 engine as standard
Raised suspension with special dampers
Bigger all-terrain tires
Fender flares and a special front and rear bumper
Spray-in bedliner (optional on other trims)
Electronically locking rear differential

Other notable options, depending on the trim level, include:

Leather upholstery
Navigation system
Spray-in bedliner

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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

4/5Above Average

#6 out of 8 among Midsize Trucks

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Chevrolet Colorado from 2008-2022.}

$523/yr

vs. $451/yr
for Average Midsize Truck

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

0.78x/yr

vs. 0.79x/yr
for Average Midsize Truck

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

13.9%

vs. 13.6%
for Average Midsize Truck

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Chevrolet Colorado.

5 (55%)

4 (5%)

3 (20%)

2 (12%)

1 (8%)

3.9

40 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Good Budget Truck

Mormandy, 12/07/2020

2021 Chevrolet Colorado LT 4dr Crew Cab 6.2 ft. SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

After two weeks with my Colorado LT 4 door V6 I can say that I really like the truck. PRO: Smooth, very quiet ride, no rattles. You sit up as high allowing for a great view. Great ground clearance, class-leading bed space and economy, strong engine V6. Great infotainment system and great sounding standard speakers / stereo. CON: Minimal knee space / leg room front and back. I've hit …

Best truck I purchased

Colorado Joe, 05/07/2022

2021 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.1 ft. SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

I have had my Colorado now for almost a year and I have had no issues whatsoever, the gas mileage is great and it drives smooth. It’s also a very comfortable drive and plenty of room inside. It tows perfect and I love the quality of the interior materials (very easy to clean and maintain) It also handles perfectly with no loud noises or vibration. It has a very good acceleration when you …

Riding High In Style

Fast Fly Freddy, 12/15/2020

2021 Chevrolet Colorado LT 4dr Crew Cab 6.2 ft. SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

Went from a Silverado Crew Cab to a 2021 Colorado Crew Cab and so far it was a great move for several reasons much better gas mileage easier to drive I am 80 years old little easier to get in and out of. You lose some room in the backseat but it’s a little easier in the front area too reach the glove box. So far so good with the trade you can’t beat Chevy that’s for sure. Very pleased.

The Colorado Work Truck Is Elegant Simplicity

Clarence, 11/02/2020

2021 Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab SB (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

In the old days, back when trucks were little more than an engine and seat, we called basic trucks "stripped down" versions. When I teased the salesman that this was stripped down, he self-righteously corrected me that it is a work truck. To GM's credit, and to his, he is right. It is more than just an engine and seat. But still it isn't for everyone. It lacks numerous creature comforts …

See all 40 reviews of the Chevrolet Colorado

Write a vehicle review

2021 Chevrolet Colorado video

2021 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Review | Chevy's Baddest Off-Road Truck | Price, Engine, Towing & More

How do you go about taking an already capable off-road truck up a notch? Find out in this 2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison review. The Bison package is available on the Colorado ZR2. It's made in collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles, or AEV, a company that specializes in…

2021 Colorado Highlights

Type:

Crew Cab

Trim:

Work Truck

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$27,100
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$184/month
Seating	5 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	7,000 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Colorado models:

OnStar System: Provides emergency crash notification, stolen vehicle notification, and remote locking and unlocking. Standard on the LT and above.
Safety Package: Includes forward collision and lane departure warning systems. Available on the LT and Z71 models only.
Teen Driver Mode: Lets you have custom key settings for secondary drivers and can provide in-vehicle reports.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover3 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover22%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Acceptable
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Acceptable
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2021 Chevy Colorado Review

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2021 Chevrolet Colorado Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab SB (2.5L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.20 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Towing and Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Colorado does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Chevrolet Colorado models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

Good Budget Truck

Best truck I purchased

Riding High In Style

The Colorado Work Truck Is Elegant Simplicity

2021 Chevrolet Colorado video

2021 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Review | Chevy's Baddest Off-Road Truck | Price, Engine, Towing & More

2021 Colorado Highlights

Safety

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