The New Pickup Truck Consumer Reports Gave the ‘Avoid’ Label

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Pickup trucks are a popular automotive segment in North America. Some trucks are ranked high among others in their class. However, this new pickup truck got the ‘avoid’ label from Consumer Reports

2021 Chevrolet Colorado | Chevrolet

According to Consumer Reports, buyers should probably pass on the 2021 Chevy Colorado pickup truck and opt for something else instead. The Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup truck that scored low in CR tests and reviews. Yes, the 2021 Colorado ZR2 off-road designated model is appealing and the starting price of $25,200 for the base model is affordable. So why is it a 2021 pickup truck model to avoid? 

Why does Consumer Reports recommend avoiding the 2021 Chevy Colorado? 

An orange 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 driving
2021 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 | Chevrolet

The 2021 Colorado is a new pickup truck Consumer Reports gave the ‘avoid’ label. But why? What factors contributed to the low score of this pickup truck? 

The outgoing Chevrolet Colorado earned a 6/100 road test score from Consumer Reports. Overall, this really isn’t so bad considering it’s a midsize pickup truck. The acceleration, transmission, and braking all received a 4/5 rating. However, Consumer Reports rated other elements such as emergency handling, ride, and seat comfort 2/5. 

Consumer Reports also rated the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado pickup 2/5 for predicted reliability. Additionally, highlights both the lack of favorable adjustments available for the cloth seats as well as the “awkward driving position.” And, despite the decent road test score, CR still describes the ride as “stiff and choppy.” 

Is the 2021 Chevy Colorado a good truck?

Yes, the 2021 Colorado is a good midsize pickup truck. However, it’s not the best according to Consumer Reports. That said, CR does highlight the Colorado’s strengths as well––and the list of pros isn’t short. 

It’s handling is praised, and a high 24 mpg gas mileage rating for the 2.8 liter diesel powertrain. Other engine options for the Chevy Colorado include a 2.5 liter four-cylinder and a 3.6 liter V6. These get an average of about 22 and 19 mpg respectively, depending on the configuration. 

The body styles include an extended cab and a crew cab Chevy Colorado. This new pickup truck Consumer Reports gives the ‘avoid’ label is an OK total package. CR says it is more sophisticated than the ever popular Toyota Tacoma.

“Sure, this truck is far more refined than the rough-and-tumble Toyota Tacoma that perennially tops the sales charts in this class. But ultimately the Colorado and twin GMC Canyon break little new ground beyond offering an extremely efficient diesel engine.”

Consumer Reports

However, the 2021 Chevy Colorado’s admirable diesel powertrain emits a loud groan. Plus, the seats and driving position knock its appeal. Combine these issues with a low predicted reliability rating and only average consumer satisfaction score and the 2021 Colorado doesn’t make a strong argument.

What should you buy instead? 

Honda's Ridgeline sits in a meadow
The new Ridgeline | Honda

Rather than spend the money on this new pickup truck Consumer Reports gave the ‘avoid’ label, the publication actually recommends that buyers turn to the midsize pickup trucks rated at the top of their class. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline is the best midsize pickup truck according to Consumer Reports. Then, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator came in second.

Each of these trucks scored higher than the Colorado in every category. For those that want a more refined experience, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is likely a good choice. But if you want the option to go off-road in your truck, you may want to turn to something more off-road capable. The 2021 Jeep Gladiator is a great choice as well, receiving high marks in virtually every category. 

A 2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon in Gecko Green parked on the edge of a rocky incline on a cloudy day
2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon in Gecko Green | Stellantis

Some buyers will still end up with a 2021 Colorado. When it all boils down, people will buy the truck they like the most. Still, Consumer Reports recommends that we avoid the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado and opt for the 2021 Honda Ridgeline or 2021 Jeep Gladiator.

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