The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Review

The Chevy Colorado is a midsize pickup truck that's easy to use. It also offers plenty of features. For instance, you can get Apple CarPlay on the base model, which is a first for a midsize pickup. And, you can choose between three different engines. You can choose a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, a 3.6-liter V6 or a new 2.8-liter Duramax diesel.

Those who opt for the base model can expect to get a 4.2-inch touchscreen interface, a rearview camera, power windows, air conditioning and a locking tailgate. If you go with the LT, you'll also get an eight-inch touchscreen, cruise control, Bluetooth and power folding side mirrors. There are also three months of Sirius satellite radio included in the price. In addition, a six-speaker audio system and vinyl seats come standard.

The 2.8-liter Duramax diesel has a smooth torque delivery. It's also quiet. Plus, it offers a surprisingly broad range of usable torque. When combined with the 6-speed automatic transmission, it returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Chevrolet Colorado buyers can choose from a five-seat crew cab or a two-seat extended cab. Crew cabs have extra room for the rear seat. This gives the Colorado a more crossover-like feel. Additionally, you can install a child seat in the rear. With the Crew cab, you can even have a folding rear bench. Depending on the type of Colorado you choose, you can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

2016 Chevrolet Colorado

While there are a few shortcomings in the Chevy Colorado, it's still a great choice for anyone who's looking for a midsize pickup. Its fuel economy is excellent, the turbocharger spools up quickly from a stop, and the ride is smooth. Plus, its available 4G LTE Wi-Fi is the first of its kind for a midsize pickup. Regardless of which trim you go with, you'll be able to connect up to seven smart devices to the truck's OnStar system.

However, if you need more off-road capability, you may want to look into the Chevy Colorado Z71. It includes a sliding rear window, a 17-inch aluminum wheel package and heated front seats. Another option is the Trail Boss. Add ons include super-bright LED spotlights, a flying buttress-style light bar in the bed, and unique headlamps.

The V-6-equipped Colorados are EPA-estimated to achieve 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Two-wheel-drive models return a combined EPA estimate of 21 mpg. But if you're lugging around a heavy load, it's worth considering a full-size truck with an 8-foot box. Of course, you'll pay more, but the extra space can make a difference.

The Chevy Colorado also comes with an available Forward Collision Alert system. Unlike other midsize trucks, the Colorado offers an optional system that will alert you to potential collisions. It's also available with a trailer-sway control system. Combined with the optional EZ Lift-and-Low tailgate, you can easily raise and lower the tailgate with one hand.