A Detailed Look at the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and 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 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 serve different purposes, but how do they stack up in terms of performance, interior comfort, technology, and overall value?

Powertrain Options and Performance

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado is designed for those who require a capable workhorse. 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, delivering 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 requiring strong towing capabilities.

On the other hand, the 2024 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 offers a spacious layout with high-quality materials and an intuitive infotainment system that includes a standard 11.3-inch touchscreen - chevy tahoe display, integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 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 significantly greater utility for hauling larger loads.

Safety and Technology Offerings

Both the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado and Mazda CX-50 are equipped with numerous advanced 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 provides a commendable selection of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. Mazda's i-Activsense suite provides additional driver assistance features, making it a competitive option in terms of safety.

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 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 different driving environments.

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 tougher terrains, making it an ideal choice for adventurous drivers

Final Thoughts

In summary, the decision between the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado and the 2024 Mazda CX-50 ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and requirements. If you are in need of a powerful truck that excels in towing and off-road performance, the Colorado is the best option. However, if you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable crossover that offers a fun driving experience, the CX-50 may be more aligned with your preferences.

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.