2021 Chevrolet Colorado Towing Capacity & Specs
TL;DR Summary
The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado mid-size truck delivers impressive pickup utility with conventional towing capacities up to 7,700 lbs, max payload up to 1,550 lbs, and potent V6 or Duramax diesel engine options.
Trim specifications
All weights in pounds. Ratings depend on the trim and towing configuration.
| Trim / Package | Engine / Fuel | Max Towing | Max Payload | GCWR | GVWR | Curb Weight | Tongue Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extended / Crew Cab WT / LT RWD Baseline | 2.5L I4 Naturally Aspirated Gas |
3,500 lb | 1,435 lb | 8,500 lb | 5,400 lb | 3,935 lb | 350 lb |
| Crew Cab WT / LT / Z71 / ZR2 RWD/4WD | 3.6L V6 Naturally Aspirated Gas |
7,000 lb | 1,550 lb | 12,000 lb | 5,800 lb | 4,200 lb | 700 lb |
| Crew Cab LT / Z71 / ZR2 Duramax 4WD | 2.8L I4 Turbo Diesel Diesel |
7,700 lb | 1,481 lb | 12,700 lb | 6,000 lb | 4,450 lb | 770 lb |
In-Depth 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Towing Review
The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado offers class-leading mid-size pickup truck capability, supporting a conventional 2021 Chevrolet Colorado towing capacity ranging from 3,500 lbs on 2.5L base models, to 7,000 lbs on 3.6L V6 models, up to a maximum 7,700 lbs on 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel configurations. Engine options include a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder delivering 200 horsepower at 6,300 RPM and 191 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM, a 3.6-liter V6 producing 308 horsepower at 6,800 RPM and 275 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 RPM, and a 2.8-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel inline-4 generating 181 horsepower at 3,400 RPM and 369 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 RPM. Transmissions range from 6-speed to 8-speed automatics. The fully boxed ladder frame supports a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 8,500 lbs to 12,700 lbs, a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 5,400 lbs to 6,200 lbs, and an unladen curb weight spanning 3,935 lbs to 4,711 lbs.
Maximized hauling capability is highlighted by a Colorado max payload rating of 1,435 lbs to 1,550 lbs, allowing substantial bed cargo alongside trailering equipment. Utilizing factory tow package specifications adds an integrated trailer brake controller, heavy-duty automatic locking rear differential, and a Class IV hitch receiver with 4-pin and 7-pin electrical connectors. The static tongue weight limit scales from 350 lbs up to 770 lbs, requiring proper trailer loading to optimize axle weight balance and maintain tire traction on slippery road surfaces. With robust powertrain and torque specs, solid rear axle leaf spring suspension, and available four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, the 2021 Colorado provides exceptional durability for work crews, hauling equipment, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum conventional towing capacity and tongue weight limit for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?
The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado offers a maximum conventional towing capacity ranging from 3,500 lbs (2.5L I4), to 7,000 lbs (3.6L V6), up to 7,700 lbs (2.8L Duramax Diesel), with tongue weight limits between 350 lbs and 770 lbs.
How do the three engine options compare for horsepower, torque, and payload in the 2021 Colorado?
The 2.5L I4 produces 200 HP / 191 lb-ft (1,435-lb max payload). The 3.6L V6 outputs 308 HP / 275 lb-ft (1,550-lb max payload). The 2.8L Duramax Diesel delivers 181 HP and 369 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 RPM (1,481-lb max payload).
What are the GCWR, GVWR, Curb Weight, and Payload specifications for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?
The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado features a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 8,500 to 12,700 lbs, a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 5,400 to 6,200 lbs, an unladen curb weight of 3,935 to 4,711 lbs, and max payload capacity from 1,435 to 1,550 lbs.
What factory equipment is included in the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package for the Chevrolet Colorado?
The Heavy-Duty Trailering Package adds a Class IV hitch receiver, 4-pin and 7-pin electrical connectors, an integrated electronic trailer brake controller, and a heavy-duty automatic locking rear differential.
How does the 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel's exhaust brake assist downhill trailering in the Colorado?
The 2.8L Duramax Diesel features an integrated exhaust brake that creates engine backpressure on steep mountain descents, helping control speed without overheating mechanical brakes when towing up to 7,700 lbs.
Always confirm ratings for your exact configuration with the manufacturer and vehicle certification labels. Passenger, cargo and trailer tongue weight affect payload and towing limits.
You might also be interested in
Other 2021 vehicles in the heavy-duty towing class.