Comparing the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado to the 2025 Mazda CX-50

With so many vehicles on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be a daunting task. In this head-to-head, we’ll take a closer look at the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, a midsize truck known for its rugged capabilities, in contrast to the 2021 Mazda CX-50, a compact crossover that emphasizes style and driving pleasure. Both vehicles serve different purposes, but how do they stack up in terms of performance, interior comfort, technology, and overall value?

Performance and Engine Options

The 2023 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 who want more power, there’s an upgraded version of this engine, offering 310 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. This allows the Colorado to handle a formidable 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 generate 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 needing a truck's capabilities.

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 - 2025 chevrolet tahoe display, integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Colorado can accommodate 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, yet a bit smaller compared to the Colorado’s. The CX-50 also seats five, but its cargo space is less expansive than the Colorado's truck bed. The CX-50 provides 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which increases to 56.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, whereas the Colorado’s bed provides significantly greater utility for hauling larger loads.

Safety and Technology Offerings

Both the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado and Mazda CX-50 feature a suite of modern safety technologies. The Colorado includes many standard safety features, 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 comes with a reliable set of safety options, highlighted by adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision alert. The i-Activsense suite from Mazda offers additional driver assistance technologies, positioning it as a strong contender in safety.

Driving Experience

When it comes to on-road performance, the Mazda CX-50 shines with its sporty handling and responsive steering. It delivers a more dynamic driving experience, allowing for enjoyable navigation on winding roads and city streets. Its all-wheel-drive system also enhances traction and stability, making it a solid choice for varying road conditions.

In contrast, the Chevrolet Colorado is built for rugged versatility (modern chevy burlington). While it may not match the CX-50's agility in handling, it excels in off-road capabilities, especially with the available Z71 and ZR2 trims that come with specialized off-road features. The Colorado is designed to tackle challenging landscapes, making it an ideal choice for adventurous drivers

Conclusion

In summary, the decision between the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado and the 2021 Mazda CX-50 ultimately comes down to your individual lifestyle and requirements. If you need a rugged and capable truck for towing and off-roading, the Colorado is the obvious choice. However, if you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable crossover that offers a fun driving experience, the CX-50 may be a better fit for your needs.

Each vehicle has its strengths, and understanding what matters most to you—be it towing capacity, cargo space, or driving dynamics—will help you make the best choice for your next vehicle purchase.