How the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Compares to the 2022 Mazda CX-50

When it comes to choosing the right vehicle for your lifestyle, the options can be overwhelming. In this head-to-head, we’ll take a closer look at the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado, a midsize truck known for its rugged capabilities, versus the 2020 Mazda CX-50, a compact crossover that emphasizes style and driving pleasure. Both vehicles cater to different needs, but how do they stack up in terms of performance, interior comfort, technology, and overall value?

Powertrain Options and Performance

The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado is designed for those who need a versatile and powerful vehicle. It comes standard with a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. For buyers looking for more power, there’s an upgraded version of this engine, which provides 310 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. This allows the Colorado to tow an impressive 7,700 pounds, making it a standout option for those who frequently tow trailers or heavy equipment.

On the other hand, the 2020 Mazda CX-50 is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. For those looking for a sportier drive, the CX-50 offers an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that can output up to 250 horsepower when using premium fuel. While the CX-50 provides a fun and engaging driving experience, its towing capacity is limited to approximately 3,500 pounds, which may not be sufficient for buyers who require significant towing power.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Inside the Chevrolet Colorado, the cabin is designed with practicality in mind. It boasts a spacious layout with high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system that includes a standard 11.3-inch touchscreen - 2024 chevrolet equinox display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The Colorado comfortably seats up to five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom

In contrast, the Mazda CX-50 emphasizes a more upscale and refined interior. It offers a stylish design with premium materials, and its 10.25-inch infotainment display is user-friendly, although slightly smaller than the Colorado’s. The CX-50 also seats five, but its cargo space is more limited compared to the Colorado's truck bed. The CX-50 provides 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which can be expanded to 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, whereas the Colorado’s bed provides much more utility for transporting larger items.

Technology and Safety Features

Both the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado and Mazda CX-50 feature a suite of modern safety technologies. The Colorado includes standard technologies such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rear vision camera, along with available options such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

The Mazda CX-50 also offers a solid array of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. Mazda’s i-Activsense package enhances safety with additional driver assistance features, making it a formidable competitor in this category.

Driving Experience

When it comes to the driving experience, the Mazda CX-50 shines with its sporty handling and responsive steering. It delivers a more car-like driving experience, making it enjoyable to navigate winding roads and city streets. Its all-wheel-drive system also enhances traction and stability, making it a solid choice for diverse weather conditions.

In contrast, the Chevrolet Colorado is built for versatility and ruggedness. While it may not match the CX-50's agility in handling, it excels in off-road capabilities, especially with the available ZR2 and Z71 packages designed for off-road adventures. The Colorado is designed to tackle rough terrains, making it an ideal choice for adventurous drivers

Final Thoughts

In summary, the decision between the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado and the 2020 Mazda CX-50 ultimately comes down to your individual lifestyle and requirements. If you are in need of a powerful truck that excels in towing and off-road performance, the Colorado is the clear choice. However, if you’re looking for a refined and stylish crossover that prioritizes driving enjoyment, the CX-50 may be the right match for you.

Each vehicle has its strengths, and understanding what is essential to you—whether it’s towing capacity, interior space, or handling—will assist in making your vehicle choice.