Toyota Won't Like the 2025 Chevy Colorado's Towing Capacity

Toyota Won't Like the 2025 Chevy Colorado's Towing Capacity originally appeared on Autoblog.

Midsize trucks are a solid compromise

When it comes to making a compromise on truck pricing and capability, midsize pickups are a solid choice. Not only are they plenty capable, but they cost thousands of dollars less than their full-size counterparts. There aren’t that many midsize trucks on the market, but the segment is making a comeback. New and returning entries to the segment will have their work cut out for them, though. With a starting price of $31,900, the Chevy Colorado manages to offer best-in-class towing capacity, beating out the likes of Toyota, Ford, and Nissan.

Most Colorado models can tow 7,700 pounds

Chevy managed to simplify the Colorado’s engine lineup for the 2025 model year. All models now come equipped with a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Total output sits at an impressive 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. That performance, plus the advanced trailering package, allows the Chevy Colorado to tow up to 7,700 lbs. when properly equipped.

Considering they share major components, it should come as no surprise that the 2025 GMC Canyon can tow up to 7,700 lbs. as well. With a starting price of $38,400, the Canyon packs in plenty of additional features that the Chevy Colorado doesn’t have. While both midsize pickups have identical passenger space, the Canyon offers more premium upgrades, like leather upholstery and a power-adjustable passenger seat.

While the GMC Canyon puts an emphasis on luxury, the Chevy Colorado focuses more on capability. Available in five trim levels, the Colorado includes an impressive list of standard equipment. The WT model is the most basic of the bunch, but even it comes equipped with an 11.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-inch driver information center, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The LT model gets several upgrades, including Chevy’s EZ lift and lower tailgate with a built-in flexible storage system.

The mid-level Trail Boss is designed to head off-road, with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 32-inch tires, a 2-inch factory lift, and a transfer case shield. The Z71 gets some noticeable updates, including a black interior with red accents. The top-tier ZR2 is the most capable off-road model, with 33-inch mud-terrain tires, a three-inch factory lift, and high-performance suspension. That extra equipment reduces the Colorado’s maximum towing capacity to 6,000 lbs., though.

Midsize competitors can’t compete with Chevy

With a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 lbs., few midsize pickups can come close to matching the capability of GM’s offerings. The Toyota Tacoma is arguably one of the most notable midsize trucks on the market, with more than 190,000 units sold last year. Its towing capacity varies by configuration, but the Japanese model can tow up to 6,500 lbs. at its peak. At its lowest, the Tacoma can tow 3,500 lbs. when properly equipped.

The Nissan Frontier, while often considered a footnote, comes with a standard V6 engine that puts out 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, the Frontier can tow up to 7,150 lbs. The Honda Ridgeline, a unibody truck, isn’t exactly known for its towing capabilities, with a 5,000-lb. maximum capacity.

As for the Big Three, the Ford Ranger made its return in spectacular fashion, but it falls just short of matching the Colorado’s towing capacity. Ford’s midsize entry can tow up to 7,500 lbs., effectively keeping the Chevy-Ford rivalry alive in the midsize pickup segment. Ram’s midsize truck is currently under development, with the new model expected to begin production in 2027.

Final thoughts

With a balance of rugged capability, especially in the Trail Boss and ZR2 models, the Chevy Colorado manages to hold a strong position in the midsize truck segment. With best-in-class towing capacity and a relatively affordable price, the American truck is the ideal model for both work and play. Add in the sheer versatility and standard tech, and the Colorado is a tough model to top. Plus, if you have an eye for a more premium driving experience, the GMC Canyon offers identical capability with a focus on comfort and convenience.

Toyota Won't Like the 2025 Chevy Colorado's Towing Capacity first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 11, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 11, 2025, where it first appeared.