Which Colorado has the highest towing capacity?
The Chevrolet Colorado with the 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine offers the highest towing capacity in the lineup, up to about 7,700 pounds when properly equipped.
To understand what that means in practice, towing ratings vary by engine, cab configuration, bed length, drivetrain, and whether the factory Tow Package is installed. The following breakdown covers the top-end figures for recent model years and explains how to maximize the rating.
Towing capacity by engine
Here is a breakdown of typical maximum towing ratings by engine and configuration.
- 2.5L inline-4 gas engine: up to 3,500 pounds
- 3.6L V6 with 8-speed automatic: up to 7,000 pounds
- 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel: up to 7,700 pounds
Notes: The exact number depends on cab/bed configuration, drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD), and whether the Tow Package is installed. The Duramax option generally yields the highest rating among Colorado trims.
Configurations that maximize tow rating
The highest official tow rating is typically achieved when the vehicle is equipped with the Duramax diesel, the factory Tow Package, and a configuration that Chevrolet advertises for maximum capability (often Crew Cab with appropriate bed and drivetrain). Always verify the specific rating on the vehicle’s window sticker for your exact build.
- 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine
- Factory Tow Package
- Crew Cab configuration (with the appropriate bed length)
- Drivetrain aligned with Chevrolet’s maximum-tow setup (often 4x4)
In practice, pursuing the top number requires matching equipment, payload limits, and braking requirements as outlined by Chevrolet. Real-world towing will also be influenced by terrain, altitude, and trailer weight distribution.
Practical considerations for buyers
Before deciding, consider how you’ll use the truck: frequent heavy towing may justify the Duramax option, while lighter hauling could be adequately served by the gas V6. Always consult the latest Chevrolet towing guide and the specific window sticker for the exact configuration you’re considering.
Summary
Bottom line: The highest towing capacity within the Chevrolet Colorado lineup is 7,700 pounds, achieved with the 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine when paired with the Tow Package and the appropriate cab/bed configuration. The next strongest option is the 3.6L V6 at around 7,000 pounds, while the base 2.5L gas engine tops out near 3,500 pounds. Exact ratings vary by configuration, so check the specific build sheet for accuracy.
What year of Chevy Colorado to stay away from?
The Chevy Colorado years to avoid are primarily the 2004-2006 first-generation models and the 2014-2019 second-generation models due to common issues like transmission problems, engine misfires, and power steering loss. The 2015 model is often cited as the worst year due to widespread transmission and power steering failures. Other years with notable complaints include 2017 for electronics and 2018 for transmission shuddering.
This video discusses the worst Chevy Colorado years to avoid, focusing on the 2015 model's transmission and steering issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Problematic generations and years
- First Generation (2004-2006):
- 2004-2006: Early years are prone to engine misfires and worn-out valve seats.
- Second Generation (2014-2019):
- 2015: This is frequently called out as the worst year due to numerous complaints about the transmission and a high number of power steering system failures.
- 2017: Issues with the display screen freezing and phone pairing problems are frequently reported.
- 2018: Transmission shuddering and other transmission-related problems were common.
- 2014-2019: This period saw many transmission and engine issues, as well as problems with power steering and the HVAC system.
- Other years:
- 2004-2012: These years can have problems with the A/C blower motor and fuel level sensors.
You can watch this video to learn about potential problems with different generations of the Chevy Colorado: 56sTech TriumphYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Common issues by category
- Transmission: Shuddering, sluggish shifting, and premature failure were common, particularly in the 2015-2019 models.
- Engine: Misfires and worn-out valve seats were reported in the 2004-2009 and 2016 models.
- Steering: A significant number of 2015 models experienced power steering loss, which is a major safety concern.
- Electronics: The 2017 model is known for issues like freezing display screens and problems with phone pairing.
- HVAC: Malfunctioning A/C blowers were a complaint in the 2004-2010 and 2012 model years.
Which Colorado can tow the most?
Which Chevy Colorado can tow the most? For the 2025 model, the Chevy Colorado towing capacity of 7,700 pounds1 actually remains largely the same across the trim lineup. The one exception is the top-of-the-line ZR2, which can pull up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.
What is the difference between the LT and Z71 Colorado?
The main difference is that the Z71 is the off-road-focused trim, while the LT is a more general-purpose, mid-level trim. The Z71 comes standard with features like an off-road suspension, a two-speed transfer case, skid plates, and more aggressive styling cues, whereas the LT requires adding packages to get many of the Z71's standard features. If you need more off-road capability, the Z71 is the better choice; if you prioritize on-road comfort and want to build your truck with specific options, the LT is a strong contender.
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the LT and Z71 trims, highlighting their features and design differences: 54sCars Made SimpleYouTube · Jun 30, 2023
| Feature | LT | Z71 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | On-road comfort and daily driving, with the option to add features. | Off-road capability with a focus on trail performance. |
| Standard Equipment | Basic features, with many off-road and convenience items available through packages. | Includes all LT features plus more standard equipment like an off-road-tuned suspension, two-speed transfer case, and skid plates. |
| Suspension | Standard suspension, tuned for a more comfortable ride. | Off-road-tuned suspension with greater ground clearance for rough terrain. |
| Interior | Standard cloth seats with manual adjustment and simpler materials. | Includes features like a power driver's seat with lumbar support, heated front seats, and more premium materials with red accents on the doors and dashboard. |
| Exterior | Standard grille and LED lighting. | Z71 badging, aggressive front-end with red recovery hooks, LED fog lights, and all-terrain tires. |
| Engine | Base engine is the same as the Z71, but other engine options may be available. | Standard 2.7L TurboMax engine with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, which is also available on the LT. |
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Which one should you choose?
This video demonstrates how the Trail Boss trim compares to the Z71, focusing on their differences in features and performance: 1mCars Made SimpleYouTube · Aug 24, 2025
- Choose the Z71 if: You plan to do any serious off-roading or want the truck to have better trail capability right out of the box. The enhanced suspension, skid plates, and other off-road features provide a rugged foundation for your adventures.
- Choose the LT if: Your primary use is on-road driving. You can add many of the desired convenience features to the LT for a potentially lower price, but you won't have the same off-road hardware as the Z71 unless you add aftermarket parts.
Can a Chevy Colorado really tow 7 000 lbs?
While a maximum tow rating of 7,700 lbs can be achieved when properly equipped, the Chevy Colorado towing capacity all depends on the engine and configuration you've selected. That 7,700 lbs rating is with the available 2.8L Duramax® turbo-diesel engine, but the other options can still handle a serious load.
