GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

Seeking feedback on these two vehicles as a tow vehicle.
They can tow up to 7000#. Uses a V6 rated at 305 hp, 6sp auto.

My Impala SS weighs about 4000#, Featherlite 3110 about 1800#
About 5800# loaded up.

Dan

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

You would be better off with a 5.3L Silverado with the HD tow package. You probably don't need the Max tow package which includes the 6.0L engine. Make sure you get the integrated brake controller, it's a very nice package !

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

When I was looking in to the max tow, I found that they now offer it with a 5.3 and the 6.2 engine now. I would bet that the 5.3 is close to the canyon in mpg and the overall truck would be much better, especially for towing. Only people I know that actually spec out their trucks that close to the weight they are towing are the salesmen trying to sell the junk they have instead of what you need. I would want something that would easily exceed the need in terms of weight. Don't forget overall weight include fuel passengers, cargo,etc.

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

In 2005 we bought a brand new V6 stick 4wd s10 2door Blazer rated to tow 5000 lbs. I built a smaller light trailer to tow our 2900# Firebird worked out fine, better than anticipated . Lasted 9 years.
It only cost 1/3 of a Suburban , 1/2 of a pickup and you couldn't get a stick in a fullsize ;) ---Trevor

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

Right now I am towing with a Modified 1994 Caprice Wagon.
Bought a Featherlight 3110 used Trailer.

The Caprice installed 3.08s, new trans, rebuilt rear with New Moser axles, ARP studs and of course all new bearings.
Recently added new HD springs and air bag system with pump.
Complimented with Metro Lower control arms and SS Sway bar.

Going to see how it does going to Pittsburgh.
Handles great!

Engine has 217000 miles and passed Maryland Federal Emissions.
Building a 383 for Towing.

But eventually looking at the GM Canyon.
Sooner or later will have to retire the wagon!
I like it because my wife will find it easier to drive.
The full size Silverado is a beast to park.
My wagon will actually make a U-turn tighter than most small cars.

Dan

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

Keep in mind that you have to stop that weight as well as tow it. I would be wary.

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

How often do you tow? That is what I would base my decision on. A brand new loaded Colorado 4x4 can be had for around $35k. A similarly equipped Silverado is $10-$15k more. If you tow multiple times a week, I'd get the Silverado. Be careful when you look at them though. There are TONS of LT trim level Silverado's that come with the 4.3 V-6 now.The 5.3 is a $1095 upcharge.

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

If you are talking about 2015 Canyon /Colorado with the v6 it is a dog compared to the 12 and earlier straight 5 we got both. The 05 pulls a open trailer ok but struggles in the hills. Early models did come with a 5.3 v8, also you want the off road package with heaver springs. Brakes a so so, trailer brakes need to work. Tom

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

Dan,
FYI.
I have a loaded 2005 HD 1500 (4 door) with the towing package W/ 3.73 gears. I've pulled a lot of miles with an open trailer carrying various loads. Cars, Machinery and Parts. Absolutely no trouble. Panic stopped (With loaded trailer) a couple of times running 70+, no problems. The heaviest thing I have pulled is a large Lagun Mill trailer and mill was about 12,000 lbs. I brought it from Colorado Springs co. to East Texas. The longest loaded pull I made was with a CWT balancer and Sunnen hone from L.A to East Texas. Approx 8,00o lbs loaded. Did it in Aug of 2012. It Was 117 degrees going through Pheonix. absolutely no problems on the trip, except one blown trailer tire. This has been a great truck. BTY it's life time avg mileage for 156,000 mi is 16.2 MPG. Those 1500 HD's W/Tow package are a pretty well thought out combination & good for pulling.

Re: GM Canyon/Chevy Colorado
 

This is really good information.
The Caprice Wagon uses 3.08 with a 27 inch tall Nitto 255/17/50 tire.
Pittsburgh ProAm mountains was no problem up or back home.
Used Drive and Snuck in the OD on down hill or level stretches.
Going to add a Torque Convert Lock Switch for the clutch.

The real excitement watching the NASCAR travellers tailgating each other to go faster And at times less than a car length between.

Mostly stayed behind Tractor Trailers.
Driving the speed limit which was fine for me.
Added a SS sway bar to the wagon and has nice tight handling.

Towing your situation awareness is heightened.
So far avoided most of the scary insane desperate drivers.

D