Baker Chevrolet Coopersville - Can the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado tow a family camper for weekends around Hudsonville, MI?
Weekend getaways demand a truck that can transition seamlessly from weekday errands to towing a camper or boat with confidence. The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado shines in this role thanks to its robust turbocharged powertrain, class-leading maximum towing credentials, and trailering tech that streamlines hitching and maneuvering. If your plans include camping near the lakeshore or heading upstate for a long weekend, understanding how the Colorado’s configurations align with your trailer is the key to an easy, enjoyable trip.
At the core is a 310-hp turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic. This setup delivers strong low-end torque for getting up to speed smoothly, even when the bed is loaded and the hitch is carrying weight. When properly configured, max towing reaches up to 7,700 pounds, while off-road-focused ZR2 models are rated up to 6,000 pounds due to their specialized hardware. That spread gives shoppers a clear choice: build for maximum capacity if your camper is on the heavier side, or choose ZR2 if your adventures prioritize trails and you tow a lighter rig.
Trailering confidence isn’t just about numbers, though. The backup camera’s hitch view helps you line up the ball and receiver without a spotter, and the Colorado’s balanced chassis keeps the truck composed on highway merges and rolling two-lane roads. Rear-wheel drive models suit fair-weather tow duty, while four-wheel drive adds traction for wet campsites, gravel access roads, and winter storage moves. As always, check your specific trailer’s weight and tongue load, and build in a safety margin so towing feels calm rather than maxed out.
- Know your weights: Confirm your camper’s dry weight and gross vehicle weight rating, plus estimated cargo, to target the right Colorado configuration.
- Match equipment: Ensure your truck’s hitch class and wiring are compatible with your trailer’s coupler, brakes, and lighting.
- Balance the load: Aim for proper tongue weight distribution and secure cargo to keep the rig stable at speed.
- Plan the route: Favor roads with steady speeds and wide shoulders, and allow for longer braking distances.
Inside, the Colorado’s 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In makes road trips simpler. Use voice prompts for Google Maps to find fuel stops, campgrounds, and last-minute detours without fumbling for a phone. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep playlists, podcasts, and group texts flowing. If you spend hours at the wheel, the available 7-speaker Bose audio system is a welcome upgrade, offering clean sound that carries over wind and road noise.
What about off-pavement campsites and rugged trailheads? ZR2 equips the Colorado with Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, power-locking front and rear differentials, and additional suspension travel—components that tame ruts, ledges, and uneven surfaces. Even if you tow a lighter overlanding trailer, confident low-speed control translates directly to better access and less stress when the road runs out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can the Colorado tow a 5,500-pound camper comfortably?
Yes, when properly configured, the Colorado’s max rating of up to 7,700 pounds offers ample headroom for a 5,500-pound camper. We recommend factoring in cargo and water weight, then choosing a configuration that leaves a comfortable margin.
Is four-wheel drive necessary for towing?
Not strictly, but four-wheel drive adds traction on wet grass, gravel, and seasonal roads. If your campsites or storage lots are often uneven or slick, 4WD is a smart choice.
Does ZR2’s off-road hardware limit towing?
ZR2 is rated up to 6,000 pounds. If you tow heavier, a non-ZR2 configuration is the better fit. If your camper is lighter and you value trail access, ZR2’s upgrades are outstanding.
How does the hitch view help?
The camera’s hitch view centers the receiver and ball alignment on-screen, making solo hookups faster and reducing trial-and-error moves.
If you’re mapping out family weekends and want personalized guidance, Baker Chevrolet Buick Coopersville can help you choose the right configuration, explain trailering best practices, and arrange a test drive with hitch demonstrations. Our team is serving Muskegon, Hudsonville, and Sparta with hands-on support that makes selecting and using the right tow setup straightforward and stress-free.