Scores of our loyal customers here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse have been alert and waiting for any truck news about new models available: Whether it's our award-winning full-size Silverado or its eager sibling in the form of the Colorado, there's heaps of great updates right around the corner. The Driving.com experts recently took a close-up look at what each trim offers you within the 2021 Colorado's lineup, from entry-level all of the ways to the souped-up top. GM founder Alfred Sloan claimed that he wanted to make a vehicle for "every purse and every purpose", and these trims were all designed with separate specifics to satisfy many types.
The WT -- Extended Cab, Crew Cab Short/Long Box: This is the trim at the entry-level of the 4, with all 3 body styles seeing availability in either 2WD or 4WD. The standard engine is the 200-hp 2.5-Liter inline-four, with the option to step up to the 306-hp V6. The 4-cylinder is paired with a six-speed transmission, and the 8-speed arrives for duty with the same.
There is a 7-inch infotainment screen that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and this is not the least the bare-bones work truck of days past! An optional convenience package adds cruise control, keyless entry, and an easy-lift locking tailgate. Seats are cloth or vinyl, and new for 2021 is the Optional Appearance and Custom Special packages, that add extra paint to the exterior door handles and side mirrors body color.
The LT -- Extended Cab, Crew Cab Short/Long Box: This is the level that allows you to chisel in a drastic visual change, with the Chrome Appearance package option which is generous with the brightwork. The Redline Edition adds layers of dark black to the exterior and adds a set of step bars. The Convenience package brings fog lamps to the model as well as a sliding rear window and defroster and heated side mirrors. The infotainment system also sees an upgrade to an 8-inch screen with two-device Bluetooth capability.
There are also two extra USB ports and an overhead console with more interior lighting at the LT trim level. Engine options are similar to what is on the WT, except for the readier availability of the Duramax diesel to retail customers. When you do make the step up to diesel, make sure you closely check out the Trailer package, which is the key to properly and gruffly unlock the 369 lb-ft of ready-to-roll torque.
Z71 -- Extended Cab, Crew Cab Short/Long Box: This is the trim that was the true original off-road version of the Colorado, which has slowly changed itself up into a true off-roader offering a bit in the luxury department to boot. Coming to your assistance as standard equipment is an automatic locking rear differential, backed up by the Z71 off-road suspension package with hill descent control and recovery hooks.
The front bucket seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel are both heated, and the center console now features wireless charging. Residing under the hood of this trim is the 3.6-Liter V6 and 8-speed automatic, and both of the Midnight and Dusk special editions add dark aluminum wheels and an off-road sport bar that you can easily mount LED lights on. The ZR2 trim level is where many feel fully equipped to wander into the woods, but the Z71 is still a more-than-suitable starting point.
ZR2 -- Extended Cab, Crew Cab Short Box: The model that many auto publications have bestowed the "absolute trailblazer's crown" comes properly equipped with off-road technology created by the same experts who have made parts and pieces for F1 race cars. On each corner of the ZR2 are DSSV position-sensitive dampers from the superbly road-ready Multimatic company, that can properly absorb high-speed off-road action and the pleasantly reckless urge to take a jump or two.
Front and rear electronic locking differentials are standard as well as a 2-inch suspension lift, and extra underbody protection to cover the vitals from scrape damage. The 17-inch Duratrac tires offer up plenty of grip on the trail, and an electric brake controller, as well as 7-pin connector, come standard with the ZR2.
No matter what trim level you choose for your brand new Colorado truck, you will soon be lending a hand for someone to move, escaping into the wild, or just headed to the store with the ultimate working man or woman's companion!
