Chevy Colorado Towing Guide: The "Little Silverado"

2023 – Present: The TurboMax Revolution

For the latest generation, Chevy replaced the V6 and Diesel with a single 2.7L Turbo engine. However, not all Turbos are created equal.

• Turbo Plus / TurboMax (7,700 lbs): Found in the Z71, Trail Boss, and available on WT/LT, this high-output version is rated for a massive 7,700 lbs. With 430 lb-ft of torque, it out-pulls the old V6 significantly.

  • Best Match: Grand Design Imagine XLS or Jayco Jay Feather.

• Base 2.7L Turbo (3,500 lbs): Warning: If you have a standard WT or LT without the high-output upgrade, you may be limited to just 3,500 lbs. Always check your door jamb sticker to confirm which version you have.

• ZR2 & ZR2 Bison (6,000 lbs): The mighty ZR2 is built for Baja, not towing. Due to its lifted Multimatic DSSV suspension, its capacity is capped at 6,000 lbs (ZR2) or 5,500 lbs (Bison).

  • Best Match: No Boundaries (NoBo) or Ibex off-road trailers.

2015 – 2022: The V6 & Diesel Era

If you are shopping used, your engine choice is critical.

• 2.8L Duramax Diesel (7,700 lbs): The undisputed king of mid-size efficiency. Rated for 7,700 lbs, this engine includes a factory exhaust brake that makes towing down mountain passes incredibly safe.

• 3.6L V6 (7,000 lbs): The most common engine on the road. Rated for 7,000 lbs (with the Z82 Trailering Package), it is a reliable hauler, though it needs high RPMs to climb hills compared to the diesel or new turbo.

• 2.5L 4-Cylinder: Strictly limited to 3,500 lbs.

The "Z82" Requirement

On both new and old models, you must look for the Z82 Trailering Package.

• What it adds: A 2-inch receiver hitch and a 7-pin wiring connector.

• The Catch: Without this factory code, even a V6 Colorado might be limited to 3,500 lbs because it lacks the heavy-duty cooling fan and locking rear differential (G80) required for max loads.

Critical Equipment: The Brake Controller

• 2023+ Models: Chevy now offers a fully Integrated Trailer Brake Controller on the dashboard. It is standard on ZR2 and often included in the trailering packages for Z71/Trail Boss.

• 2015–2022 Models: Surprisingly, many older Colorados did not come with a factory brake controller, even with the tow package. You typically need to install an aftermarket unit. Our Service Department recommends the Redarc Tow-Pro, which installs cleanly without bulky boxes banging your knees.

What Can I Tow With a Colorado?

• Couples' Coaches: With 7,000–7,700 lbs of capacity, you are in the sweet spot for a Winnebago Micro Minnie 2108DS. It offers a slide-out and full dry bath while weighing under 5,500 lbs fully loaded.

• Adventure Trailers: For ZR2 and Trail Boss owners, you want high clearance. The Geo Pro G19FB or Forest River Ibex match your truck’s off-road tires and fit perfectly within the 6,000 lb limit.

• Payload Reality: The ZR2 has a low payload (~1,150 lbs) due to its heavy off-road armor. If you have a ZR2, avoid heavy tongue weights to keep your suspension from bottoming out on the trail.

Chevy’s Towing Tech

If you have a 2023+ model, you might have the Hitch View camera.

• Solo Hookups: This camera mode looks directly down at the hitch ball, allowing you to back up to the trailer with millimeter precision—saving your marriage and your bumper.

Ready to Adventure?

Your Colorado is the perfect size for exploring.

• Shop Mid-Size Friendly RVs: Filter our inventory for Travel Trailers Under 6,000 lbs to find the safest matches.

• Check Your Tune: Unsure if your 2023 WT has the 3,500 lb or 7,700 lb tune? Visit our Service Department to check your VIN.

• Upgrade Your Tech: Need a brake controller for your 2019 Z71? Schedule an install with us today.