Picking The Right Size for Your Pickup Truck: Chevrolet Colorado or Silverado 1500

Do you know what size you need for your next pickup truck?

It’s a complicated process. Looks, cab space, and box size are not enough to determine which truck you need. It comes down to the numbers.

Chevrolet offers two great pickup trucks: The mid-size Colorado and the half-ton full-size Silverado 1500.

While they are great trucks, both meet specific needs. Capability is determined by two sets of numbers: payload and towing. These numbers usually help you choose the right pickup truck for you. 

For example, the Colorado can tow a maximum of 7,700 pounds and has a maximum payload of up to 1,623 pounds. The Silverado 1500 has a maximum tow rating of 13,300 pounds and a payload rating of up to 2,260 pounds.

The other set of numbers has to do with engine performance. Torque numbers are critical to get the truck motivated right from the line – especially when you have a load to carry. The Colorado’s standard turbocharged engine puts down just 260 pound-feet of torque. You do have the choice to step up to the TurboMax four-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to pull its weight. That is why this engine has a torque rating of 430 pound-feet. 

The Silverado 1500 offers the same engine as standard with 430 pound-feet of torque. However, depending on the trim and configuration, there is a choice of engines. The Silverado 1500 still offers powerful V8s with up to 460 pound-feet of torque. For a more low-end grunt with improved efficiency, there is the Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel with 495 pound-feet of torque. 

Once you go through the numbers that meet your needs, the rest is up to you. The Colorado offers a Stow-Flex tailgate as one solution to keep your valuable tools or gear hidden from onlookers. On the other hand, the Silverado 1500 offers the convenience of the Multi-Flex Tailgate, which combines cargo management with an easier step up and down from the box. 

Keep in mind that the Silverado 1500 offers the available Super Cruise with Trailering. This innovative system allows you to tow your heavy load hands-free. When pulling a trailer, Super Cruise will automatically adjust the gap between you and the vehicle ahead for extra stopping distance, giving you added comfort and confidence for those long hauls. 

When you are considering a pickup truck, know that you have choices, whether it’s the Colorado or the Silverado 1500. If you’re having trouble deciding, contact us at Dieffenbach GM Superstore to help you pick the right one for you.