2022 Chevrolet Colorado Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The 2022 Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup truck that offers strong performance. The Colorado has impressive capabilities that exceed what most trucks in this class can do. This truck has excellent steering and handling. It also provides a smooth and comfortable ride over most surfaces. The Colorado is a serious off-road performer too, especially the ZR2 models.

The Chevrolet Colorado comes in three different body-style configurations. It's also available in four different trim levels. This gives buyers a wide array of choices. A Chevrolet Colorado can be configured for a variety of different needs. Each trim level takes what the previous model has and then builds upon it with upgrades and new features.

Here is a close look at each of the trim levels and what they have to offer. The powertrain, mechanical features and performance stats will all be explored. The exterior, interior, safety and tech features will be examined as well. The trim levels will be compared to show how they stack up to one another.

Compare the WT vs LT Trims. What Is the Difference?

The base trim level of the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado is called the WT. This stands for work truck, signifying that this is a bare-bones model. This may be a bit misleading as the WT still comes equipped with plenty of features considering its low price point. It really is a great value. The next trim level up by price is called the LT.

Both of these models are available in three different body styles. There's an Extended Cab with a long box. There's also a Crew Cab with a long box and a Crew Cab with a short box. Every configuration for both trims is available with either 2-wheel driver (2WD) or 4WD.

The WT model comes equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 200 horsepower (hp) with 191 pound-feet (lb-ft) of torque. It has an EPA-estimated fuel-economy rating of 19 miles-per-gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. That makes for a combined rating of 22 mpg.

The WT model can tow approximately 3,500 pounds. Models with the long box can handle a payload of up to 1,716 pounds. These numbers may shift a tiny bit depending on whether the truck has 2WD or 4WD. The WT trim level comes stock with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The WT and LT trim levels get Chevy's StabiliTrak system with traction control. This is an electronic system that aids with the stability of the truck. Both models have a fully boxed frame made of high-strength steel and with a hydroformed front section. This adds to the truck's toughness and durability.

Moving up to the LT trim level comes with a big performance upgrade. This is due largely to its 3.6-liter V6 engine. The V6 is capable of producing 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. It has an EPA-estimated fuel-economy rating of 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for a combined rating of 19 mpg.

Thanks to the V6 engine, the LT can tow up to 7,000 pounds. The LT also gets the option to swap out the gasoline engine for a 2.8-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel. The diesel engine is a 4-cylinder that can produce 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. It has the highest towing capacity at 7,700 pounds when properly equipped with Chevy's Trailering Package.

Along with the upgraded engine, the LT also gets an 8-speed automatic transmission. The suspension system gets upgraded as well. There's even an Autotrac® 2-speed transfer case and a set of front tow hooks, clearly indicating that the engineers had off-road performance in mind here. Hitch Guidance works with the rear-view camera to make towing even easier in the LT. A special Tow/Haul Mode changes the automatic shifting points for optimum performance during these activities.

On the outside, both models get 17-inch wheels with 17-inch blackwall tires and a full-size spare. The WT has silver-painted steel wheels. The LT gets aluminum wheels in a similar color scheme. On the WT, the exterior mirrors and door handles are black. On the LT, they match the body color of the truck. The LT has a number of cosmetic options for the exterior that are unavailable for the WT.

The LT can have chrome trim added to the exterior. It also gets access to a Blackout Appearance Package. On the inside, both models have a 2-way manual passenger seat up front. The WT has a 4-way power driver's seat while the LT gets a 6-way power driver's seat. Both can be had with either cloth or vinyl upholstery.

The LT gets some additional options for interior color schemes and can also have leatherette seat coverings. These two trims both have a Single-Zone Climate Control System. The AC and heating system will maintain a constant, single temperature throughout the cabin. Both models share the same infotainment and audio systems.

These trims have the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with a color touchscreen. The screen is 7-inches diagonally in the WT and 8-inches in the LT. There's an AM/FM stereo and six speakers for top-notch audio sound. Music can also be streaming from smartphones and other devices thanks to the integrated Bluetooth Technology. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both compatible with this system.

The LT trim gets some extras for the interior. The infotainment system is capable of providing a WiFi hotspot. It's also Chevrolet Connected Access capable. This system works together with OnStar. The LT gets cruise control, lighted vanity mirrors and some extra interior lighting in general. There's an overhead courtesy lamp and two reading lights that are absent from the WT.

The LT gets a leather wrap for the steering wheel. The steering wheel can be manually tilted in both trims. Only the LT has a telescoping steering column for even more versatility and comfort. Additional controls for the audio system are mounted on the LT steering wheel. The LT has more USB ports and additional places for small-item storage such as an overhead console.

LT models get Remote Keyless Entry. Both models have power windows and locks. Both vehicles have an electrical theft-deterrent system that cuts off the engine if the truck is stolen. The LT adds on horn sounds and light flashes when someone simply tries to enter the vehicle without permission. Both trims get a Tire-Pressure Monitoring System and Tire-Fill Alert.

The remaining safety features are basically the same when comparing the WT to the LT. There are six airbags. Both models have daytime-running lamps to make the truck more visible to other drivers. There's a rear-vision camera to make backing up a lot safer. Every trim level of the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado also gets Chevy's Teen Driver Technology.

Chevy's Teen Driver System allows the owner to customize settings and attach them to a key FOB. Certain vehicle features can be limited or turned off altogether. This is all about encouraging younger drivers to maintain safe driving habits. The system also provides a report card on the driver's habits so the owner can assess and coach the new driver.

Compare the LT vs Z71 Trims. What is the difference?

The next trim level up by price is the Z71. It comes in all three body configurations with 4WD. It's also available in a 2WD model as a Crew Cab with a short box. It has the same engine and transmission system as the LT. This means the same horsepower, torque and fuel-economy numbers. The Z71 adds on a lot of features to enhance the truck's off-road capabilities.

When it comes to mechanical features, the Z71 has everything that the LT offers and then some, except where upgrades have been made. The Z71 has an automatic locking rear differential. Hill Descent Control provides a smooth, controlled descent. This trim gets an Off-Road Suspension and an underbody shield for the transfer case.

On the outside, the Z71 has 17-inch Bright Machined aluminum wheels with a set of all-terrain tires. The front grille gets a black bowtie Chevy emblem. The exterior mirrors now have a heating feature for defrosting. A set of fog lamps helps to cut through the thickest fog for better visibility. Projector-beam headlamps are more powerful than those on the previous two trims.

On the inside, the Z71 gets an additional 4.2-inch Driver Information Center. It also offers Automatic Climate Control for a more comfortable environment. The stereo is upgraded to an HD radio and the rear-camera is now high definition as well. The driver's seat gets some extra comfort via power-controlled lumbar support.

The Z71 has Remote Start and a rear-window defogger. The stock seat coverings are a combination of cloth with leatherette trim. Most of the safety features and driver-assist tech is the same as in the LT. The Z71 does get a useful Rear Park Assist feature, however. The infotainment system adds Voice Recognition Technology for voice commands and hands-free phone calls.

Compare the Z71 vs ZR2. What Is the Difference?

The ZR2 is available as an Extended Cab with a long box or as a Crew Cab with a short box. It only comes in the 4WD variation. It has the same V6 and 8-speed automatic transmission system as the Z71. The Turbo-Diesel engine is again available as an option for the ZR2. The horsepower, torque and fuel-economy stats are the same as before.

This top trim level has a driver-selectable full-locking front differential and a full-locking rear differential. An integrated trailer brake is included here. Off-road rocker protection is added on. This model also gets a set of red tow hooks and Chevrolet's Trailering Package. The Trailering Package has a 2-inch receiver, 4-pin connectors, 7-pin connectors and 7-wire electrical harness.

For off-road enthusiasts, the ZR2 provides additional options that aren't even available for the Z71. This includes more underbody protection via a number of different skid plates. Plates can be added for the front, the transfer case and to protect the fuel tank.

On the outside, the ZR2 adds a spray-on bed liner. The suspension gets upgraded and some multimatic dampers are added on. There's also a special off-road front fascia, rear bumper and some fender flares. The ZR2 has a wider stance and sits higher with more ground clearance.

On the inside of the ZR2, the front passenger seat gets upgraded to a 4-way power model. Both front seats now have lumbar support. The seats now get real leather trim as well. The infotainment and audio systems remain the same as those found inside of the Z71 models. The included safety features and driver-assist technology also stays basically the same for the ZR2.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Chevrolet Colorado is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to buy a new midsize pickup truck. This is one of those rare occasions when every single trim level would be a valid choice. They all offer something different that is sure to meet someone's specific needs. If this will only be a work truck or a secondary vehicle, then the WT is a solid, economical choice.

For most buyers, the Z71 will offer the best balance of performance, features and overall cost. It has some of the best comfort and convenience features as well as the most desirable safety technology. Most of what's missing can be added on as an option. This trim level also comes with the powerful V6 engine and plenty of off-road enhancements. It's a strong performer just about anywhere and no matter what the job is.