Consumer Reports Says to Avoid the Chevy Colorado – But Why?

If you’re in the market for a new Chevy Colorado, you should probably read this one.

Chevrolet calls the new Colorado a “major flex.” It’s a midsize truck that approaches full-size territory, comes with some potent engine options and efficient technology. Rugged, quiet, and boasts an elegant interior. A truck with the best of all worlds, it’s designed to take on adventure in style with ease. So why did Consumer Reports caution consumers to avoid it?

In their recently published list of “Popular Cars to Avoid and What to Buy Instead,” they discuss some trending vehicles that don’t live up to the hype and offer alternatives instead. In the pickup truck category, someone at the publication wasn’t feeling the Colorado and named it the vehicle to avoid. Why? “The truck has poorly designed seats, an awkward driving position, and less-than-adequate reliability. Ouch. Tell us how you really feel, CR. Way to kick a brand when they’re down.

Consumer Reports added to the piece – “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. Although big truck fans love that, the diesel groaning grows tiresome around town. The real deal-breaker is the seats and driving position. Looking at the ratings, the below-average predicted reliability is a deterrent, and owners rate satisfaction as merely average.”

Consumer Reports obviously has some street cred, but their suggestion, at least in our eyes, won’t sway truck owners, especially ones who are loyal to their brand. However, their alternative suggestion might cause them to lose some of that credibility. CR says a Honda Ridgeline is worthy of your dollars. Excuse us while we laugh.

Ok, we’re back. CR goes on to say that the Ridgeline, when compared to the Colorado, has “car-like” comfort, a refined ride, and above-average reliability. Yeah, that might not be enough to woo a Chevy owner to a Honda Ridgeline. They aren’t looking for the comforts of a car. Most of us enjoy the bumpy ride of a truck, but the Ridgeline doesn’t perform the necessary functions of a truck with its shallow bed, inability to off-road, and a 5,000-pound towing capacity.

We’re still going with the Chevy, but we’re curious to hear your thoughts on the Consumer Reports article. Does it change your opinion on the Colorado or make you want one more?