The 2022 Chevrolet Colorado blends rugged truck capabilities with a manageable size, offering drivers real utility without the bulk of a full-size pickup. With multiple engine choices, off-road-ready trims, and a practical interior, the Colorado remains a strong option for those who want versatility on and off the road.
In this detailed review, we break down the 2022 Colorado’s design, performance, features, trims, and ownership experience.
Bold, Functional Exterior Design
Tough Look, Truck Utility
The Colorado sticks to classic pickup design principles with a bold front grille and muscular stance. It’s more conservative than flashy, but that appeals to buyers who value function over flair.
Exterior features include:
- Wide front fascia with available blacked-out grille
- 17- to 18-inch wheels depending on trim
- Available off-road bumpers and skid plates (ZR2)
- CornerStep rear bumper for easier bed access
- Crew Cab and Extended Cab configurations
- Short and long bed options
The 2022 Colorado’s design emphasizes utility and capability, especially in off-road and work settings.
Engine Options and Performance
Powertrain Choices for Every Job
Chevrolet gives buyers a choice of three engines in the 2022 Colorado, ranging from fuel-efficient to off-road powerful.
2.5L 4-cylinder:
- 200 horsepower / 191 lb-ft of torque
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Best for light-duty daily driving and budget-conscious buyers
3.6L V6:
- 308 horsepower / 275 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Smooth acceleration and solid towing capability
2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel:
- 181 horsepower / 369 lb-ft of torque
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Ideal for towing and fuel economy
Towing capacity:
- Up to 3,500 lbs with 4-cylinder
- Up to 7,000 lbs with V6 and towing package
- Up to 7,700 lbs with diesel and towing package
The V6 and diesel offer strong performance, especially for hauling and off-road applications.
Interior Comfort and Features
Functional Cabin with Truck Practicality
The 2022 Colorado’s interior is more utilitarian than luxurious but offers decent comfort and tech for daily use. It’s built to take a beating while offering modern conveniences.
Interior features include:
- Cloth or leather-appointed seats depending on trim
- Power-adjustable driver seat (standard on LT and up)
- Heated front seats and steering wheel (available)
- Single-zone or automatic climate control
- Rear under-seat storage in Crew Cab models
Crew Cab offers solid rear legroom, while Extended Cab is better suited for occasional passengers or storage.
Technology and Infotainment
Easy-to-Use, With the Essentials
Chevy’s infotainment system is simple, responsive, and loaded with connectivity options. While not cutting-edge, it gets the job done well.
Tech features include:
- 7-inch touchscreen (base); 8-inch touchscreen on LT and above
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth, USB ports, and voice command
- Optional navigation system
- Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- 6-speaker or optional Bose premium sound system
The infotainment interface is intuitive, with fast responses and clear menus.
Trim Levels and Configurations
Four Trims from Basic to Off-Road Beast
Chevy offers the 2022 Colorado in four trims: WT, LT, Z71, and ZR2. Each caters to a specific buyer—from basic work truck to extreme off-roader.
| Trim | Key Features |
| WT | Base features, vinyl or cloth seats, basic infotainment |
| LT | Alloy wheels, larger screen, upgraded interior and tech |
| Z71 | Off-road tuned suspension, heated seats, hill descent control |
| ZR2 | Advanced off-road package, Multimatic DSSV shocks, locking front/rear diffs |
ZR2 is built for serious trail use, while the LT hits the sweet spot for everyday drivers.
Off-Road Capability
Serious Trail Performance in ZR2 Trim
The ZR2 transforms the Colorado into a legit off-roader with upgraded components and unique tuning.
ZR2-specific off-road features:
- Multimatic DSSV dampers for high-speed off-road control
- Locking front and rear differentials
- Raised suspension and wider track
- Skid plates and rock sliders
- Off-road front and rear bumpers for better clearance
The ZR2 rivals midsize competitors like the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro in capability and toughness.
Safety Ratings and Features
Basic Safety, Optional Upgrades
Safety tech in the 2022 Colorado is functional but not class-leading. Advanced driver aids are optional or limited to upper trims.
Standard and available safety features:
- Rearview camera (standard)
- Forward Collision Alert (available)
- Lane Departure Warning (available)
- Rear Park Assist (available on LT and up)
- Teen Driver system
Safety ratings:
- NHTSA: 4 out of 5 stars overall
- IIHS: Mixed results, with solid frontal crash scores
It could use more standard driver-assist features, but basic systems perform well.
Fuel Economy and Daily Use
Respectable Efficiency for a Mid-Size Truck
Fuel economy varies by engine and drivetrain, but the Colorado remains efficient for a pickup.
EPA estimates:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder (RWD): 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 3.6L V6 (RWD): 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 2.8L Diesel (RWD): 20 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
Diesel is the best choice for long commutes and heavy towing with fewer fuel stops.
Long-Term Ownership and Reliability
Durable With Proper Maintenance
The Colorado has proven reliable with proper upkeep, especially with the V6 and diesel powertrains.
Ownership insights:
- 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
- Lower running costs than full-size trucks
- Strong aftermarket support for off-road parts
Owners report solid durability, especially for those who follow routine maintenance and avoid early 4-cylinder models with harder workloads.
Is the 2022 Chevy Colorado a Good Buy?
A Capable, Practical Mid-Size Truck with Options
The 2022 Chevrolet Colorado is a versatile mid-size truck with strong engine options, real off-road trims, and daily usability. It’s not flashy or luxurious, but it gets the job done—and then some.
Reasons to consider the Colorado:
- Wide range of trims for all needs
- Legitimate off-road performance in ZR2
- Strong towing and payload capacity
- Simple, functional interior
- Manageable size for city and trail use
If you want a truck that fits your garage, hauls your gear, and doesn’t waste fuel, the Colorado delivers.
FAQs About the 2022 Chevy Colorado
What engines are available in the 2022 Colorado?
Choose from a 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6, or 2.8L Duramax diesel engine.
What’s the maximum towing capacity?
With the diesel engine and towing package, it tows up to 7,700 pounds.
Is the ZR2 good for off-roading?
Yes, it’s one of the best factory off-road trucks in the mid-size segment.
Does it come with 4WD?
Yes, 4WD is available on all trims and standard on ZR2.
Is Colorado good on gas?
The diesel gets up to 30 mpg highway, making it very efficient for a truck.