The Good
The 2016 Colorado offered balanced performance from its engine options, especially the available V6 and diesel. Its smaller size compared to full-size trucks made it easier to maneuver and park. Practical buyers appreciated its fuel efficiency and towing capacity for its size, while emotional buyers were drawn to its rugged design and available off-road-oriented Z71 trim.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2016 Colorado included reported issues with the 8-speed automatic transmission (primarily in later model years, but something to be aware of), infotainment system glitches, and some concerns about long-term reliability of certain components. Some owners reported uncomfortable seats, particularly on long trips. Rust is always something to inspect.
2016 Chevrolet Colorado: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-4: 200 hp, 191 lb-ft of torque
- 3.6L V6: 305 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque
- 2.8L Duramax Turbodiesel Inline-4: 181 hp, 369 lb-ft of torque
- Horsepower:
- Ranges from 181 hp to 305 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5L I-4: Up to 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
- 3.6L V6: Up to 18 MPG city / 26 MPG highway
- 2.8L Diesel: Up to 22 MPG city / 31 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times (Estimated):
- 2.5L I-4: Around 9 seconds
- 3.6L V6: Around 7 seconds
- 2.8L Diesel: Around 9.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity (Maximum):
- Up to 7,700 lbs with the 2.8L diesel engine (when properly equipped). V6 models can also tow significant loads.
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Vinyl upholstery, basic audio system, rear vision camera.
- WT (Work Truck): Similar to Base but with more options for customization for work purposes.
- LT: Cloth upholstery, Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with touchscreen, alloy wheels, available convenience packages.
- Z71: Off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, unique exterior styling, hill descent control.
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Colorado |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Small Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ROANOKE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4140 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5600 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L83 - SIDI, VVT, AFM, E85 MAX, Aluminum. |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $27,185 |
| Invoice Price | $26,098 |
| Delivery Charges | $895 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Have?
Potential long-term reliability concerns involve the fuel injectors, which can sometimes require replacement. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the HVAC system, particularly with the blower motor resistor. Rust, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt, can be a concern.
Check for any outstanding recalls on the vehicle. Recalls have been issued for various reasons, including airbag issues, software glitches, and potential fuel leaks. A thorough inspection and maintenance history check are crucial when considering a used 2016 Colorado.
How long will the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Tech & Entertainment: The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, available on LT and Z71 trims, featured a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Lower trims had a basic audio system. Optional features included a premium Bose sound system.
Driver-Assistance & Safety: Standard safety features included a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Optional driver-assistance features were limited but could include forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2016 Colorado generally received good crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), but ratings can vary based on cab configuration. Check specific ratings for the exact model you are considering. These ratings considered front and side impact protection, as well as rollover resistance. The crew cab models typically performed better than extended cab in some categories.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Prices and Market Value
Depreciation has been moderate, influenced by factors like overall vehicle condition, accident history, and the popularity of the mid-size truck segment. Models with the diesel engine and Z71 trim tend to hold their value better due to higher demand.
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Cost of Ownership
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Fuel Efficiency
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages
AIR Bags:frontal
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
AIR Bags:frontal
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Compare to Other Truck?
In terms of performance, the Colorado offered a compelling diesel engine, which the Tacoma lacked. Feature-wise, the Colorado was competitive, especially with its available infotainment system. Reliability-wise, the Tacoma generally edges out the Colorado. Price-wise, the Frontier is the budget choice, while the Colorado and Tacoma are similarly priced.
Alternatives include the Honda Ridgeline (if a more car-like driving experience is desired) or a slightly older, well-maintained full-size truck for similar capability. If reliability is paramount, the Tacoma is a strong contender, but the Colorado offers a more modern feel and the option of a diesel engine.
Ranks #187 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 187 | 2016 Chevrolet Colorado | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado a Good Truck?
Consider a used 2016 Colorado if you find one with a well-documented maintenance history and no major issues. The LT or Z71 trims offer a better balance of features and value. The diesel engine provides excellent towing capability and fuel economy, but maintenance costs may be higher. Thorough inspection is key before purchasing.
Mike on September 29, 2024
The paint is horrible.The paint is horrible. Will crack and fade really quick. The water valve that is behind the motor went out and it is very difficult to replace. The mechanic declined to replace it.
Chas71 on April 7, 2024
2016 Chevy Colorado 3.6 L 4 x 4 reviewI purchased the vehicle used from a GMC dealership and within the first three days of driving it I immediately noticed the transmission shifted Oddly and had a slight shutter, at first I thought the engine was misfiring or performing poorly and then after further research, I found out that the vehicles are known for their transmission issues which involve erratic, shifting and poor performance, these are known issues with GM trucks. The ride and comfort of the vehicle is very good. The appearance is very good. The fuel mileage is average some owners claim that by sport tuning the vehicle with aftermarket software fuel mileage, engine performance and shifting can be significantly improved although I have yet to try that, I firmly believe that GM could’ve done a much better job designing the transmission and the associated software or firmware, but to let known issues go on for several years it’s completely unacceptable.. I have a negative opinion concerning the vehicle and the money I spent on the truck, It was a bad decision on my part. I will most likely get rid of the vehicle and buy something that is more reliable with less issues , Unfortunately for me I really like the GM brand. that leaves little options going forward, I will give three stars at best and hope this helps others considering a purchase of a used or new GM vehicle specifically pick up trucks with an automatic transmission.
Michael Keene on March 22, 2024
Concerned OwnerUpholstery seat material is parting at seams Ignition switch fails turning off and pulling the key . If I wait 20-30 minutes then it will work or disconnect the ground cable on the battery.. 112000 miles I now hear it's a common problem Chevrolet should take care of this issue not the owner, I believe. Thanks I hope this improves my beliefs
awsmithhtx on March 4, 2024
Good Truck for the MoneyMy 2016 has 174K miles on it now. It's been mechanically sound for the most part. As with most high mileage vehicles, things are starting to wear out but it hasn't been anything too costly. The truck has served me well and been very reliable.
Alan on August 11, 2023
Lazy transmissionMine is a 2014, 4 cylinder, WT. The transmission is lazy and won't always shift to the next gear, especially while mountain driving in the Smoky Mountains. It works a little better when I don't use cruise control. City driving gets about 18 mpg, highway driving got up to 28 mpg, even in the mountains. Something went wrong with my lights, which required a Body Control Module replacement which only worked a few days. The second replacement worked 1100 miles then started acting up again. Suddenly, everything started working again at 1600 miles, and still going strong. I don't like the very tiny infotainment screen, but Chevy advised against replacing it with an upgraded version.
Jim on May 1, 2023
Happy with my Colorado!I bought my Colorado new & have kept up all my service on it. Runs great, good gas mileage, for a truck. I don’t like the design of the door panels, nothing fits in them, useless! My foot slips off the brake pedal no matter what shoes I wear! Don’t know if anyone else has this problem. Jim
Sam Racing on October 30, 2022
6â€5 and I get in and outBought my Colorado from a dealer 2 years ago. I do regular maintenance and knock on wood have had no major problems. I average around 21 MPG which I think isn’t too bad. My only complaints are pretty minor. I’m 6â€5 so getting in and out is tight, but once I get in I have pretty decent room. My only other complaint was that I took a road trip and my mileage did not increase much. I also wish the cup holders were a little bigger for my over sized cup of coffee in the morning lol. Overall I’ve been very happy with the truck.
Jacqueline on March 7, 2022
Boo Unsafe, unreliable, over priced piece of junk.I had my truck in the shop 28 days already that's both times in August and September. The stabilitrack light, t/c light and engine light came on. Then as I was driving across the bridge it went into limp mode reducing my speed to 45 as traffic was flying past me. I couldn't pull over anywhere. Sent the truck into be fixed it came out sounding and acting worse than before it went in. Sent it straight back and the 2nd time I at least got a rental car but my truck sounded worse when they started it and squealed. Windshield cracked hood scraped, money missing out of glove box and grease all over door. No oil in the truck. The truck is not any better and sent to a new auto shop but now the parts on national back order and with my extended warranty that was completely misinformed of the coverage and second warranty that was charged. They have no idea when the rear Knox 2 sensor will be even made. Not one in the USA is what I am being told. So I am very disappointed also besides I'm disabled and can't get anywhere but I think that the tow package is a joke. I can't haul my camper the dealership promised and sure couldn't get out of a wet paper sack if my life depended on this truck for anything.
Jsan7232 on June 2, 2021
Worst.My Chevy Colorado was great for the first 33 days. I have on five different trucks I’ve never owned a Ford truck. But now that I seen the indifference that the manufacture puts out to a customer is beyond belief. My windows doesn’t go up/down properly. My dashboard lights will intermittently go off & will stay off for days. My Chevy link sometimes works properly. Please stay away from this Cheney model
LaurieP😸 on May 28, 2021
My new ride!!So far, REALLY enjoying all the fun gadgets this truck has. Pretty attached to the Ford Sport trac , but this might be my new baby!
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.