The 2012 Chevy Colorado captures attention with its bold exterior lines and robust stance. Its muscular build not only exudes confidence but also hints at the immense power that lies beneath its hood. As a compact pickup truck effortlessly tackles both urban streets and off-road adventures, making it an ideal companion for those seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
All Colorado models include the safety of StabiliTrak electronic stability control and head-curtain side-impact airbags. Learn more about the Chevy Colorado towing and performance specs and take a closer look at the other configurations.
The 2012 Chevy Colorado with a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when properly equipped. The pickup truck with performance and efficiency comes standard with a Trailering Package making it a great choice for drivers who need to tow heavy loads.
Table of Contents
2012 Chevy Colorado towing capacity chart
| 2012 Chevy Colorado trim levels | 2012 Chevy Colorado towing capacity |
| Chevy Colorado WT | 1,900 – 6,000 lbs. |
| Chevy Colorado Z85 | 1,900 – 6,000 lbs. |
| Chevy Colorado Z71 | 5,500 lbs. |
2012 Chevy Colorado Engine Options
Colorado’s standard Vortec 2.9L four-cylinder engine, Colorado also offers a Vortec 3.7L I-5 engine with 242 horsepower. For those seeking a midsize truck with big-truck capability, an available Vortec 5.3L V-8 engine enables a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds and zero-to-60 performance of fewer than seven seconds. Chevrolet Colorado continues to offer proven Chevy Truck capability with EPA-estimated highway fuel economy of up to 25 mpg.
| Engine Type | 2.9L inline 4-cylinder | 3.7L inline 5-cylinder | 5.3L V-8 |
| Horsepower | 185 hp @ 5,600rpm | 242 hp @ 5,600rpm | 300 hp @ 5,200rpm |
| Torque | 190 lb.-ft. @ 2,800rpm | 242 hp @ 4,600rpm | 320 hp @ 3,600rpm |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 | 10:1 | 9.7:1 |
2012 Chevy Colorado towing capacity
It is available with regular, extended, or crew cabs, in either two- or four-wheel drive. Regular and extended cab models have a 6-foot-1-inch (1.85 m) pickup bed with taller sides than many competitors, providing best-in-class volume for deeper storage and higher overall payload. Crew cab bed lengths are 5-foot 1-inch (1.55 m) and offer a 60/40-split/folding rear seat capable of accommodating three adults.
For additional versatility, extended and crew cab models are available with the Z71 off-road suspension or the sport-tuned ZQ8 suspension package. Both beds offer two-tier cargo loading and tailgates that are both lockable and easily removable. The towing capacity varies based on the engine and configuration chosen:
2012 Chevy Colorado Regular Cab towing capacity
2WD Regular Cab
| Engine/Transmission | Axle Ratio | Curb Weight (lbs.) | GCWR (lbs.) | Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| 2.9L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,399 | 7,000 | 3,400 |
| 2.9L Manual | 3.73 | 3,366 | 6,000 | 2,400 |
| 3.7L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,455 | 8,500 | 4,000 |
4WD Regular Cab
| Engine/Transmission | Axle Ratio | Curb Weight (lbs.) | GCWR (lbs.) | Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| 2.9L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,718 | 7,000 | 3,100 |
| 2.9L Manual | 3.73 | 3,684 | 6,000 | 2,100 |
| 3.7L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,779 | 9,000 | 4,000 |
2012 Chevy Colorado Extended Cab towing capacity
2WD Extended Cab
| Engine/Transmission | Axle Ratio | Curb Weight (lbs.) | GCWR (lbs.) | Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| 2.9L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,592 | 7,000 | 3,200 |
| 2.9L Manual | 3.73 | 3,559 | 6,000 | 2,200 |
| 3.7L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,649 | 9,500 | 5,500 |
| 5.3L V8 Automatic | 3.42/3.73 | 3,889 | 10,400 | 6,000 |
| 5.3L V8 Automatic ZQ8 Sport Suspension | 3.42 | 3,889 | 8,500 | 4,000 |
4WD Extended Cab
| Engine/Transmission | Axle Ratio | Curb Weight (lbs.) | GCWR (lbs.) | Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| 2.9L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,911 | 7,000 | 2,900 |
| 2.9L Manual | 3.73 | 3,878 | 6,000 | 1,900 |
| 3.7L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,972 | 9,800 | 5,500 |
| 5.3L V8 Automatic | 3.42/4.10 | 4,136 | 10,400 | 6,000 |
2012 Chevy Colorado Crew Cab towing capacity
2WD Crew Cab
| Engine/Transmission | Axle Ratio | Curb Weight (lbs.) | GCWR (lbs.) | Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| 2.9L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,721 | 7,000 | 3,000 |
| 2.9L Manual | 3.73 | 3,688 | 6,000 | 2,100 |
| 3.7L Automatic | 3.73 | 3,782 | 9,500 | 5,500 |
| 5.3L V8 Automatic | 3.42/3.73 | 4,013 | 10,400 | 6,000 |
| 5.3L V8 Automatic ZQ8 Sport Suspension | 3.42 | 4,013 | 8,500 | 3,800 |
4WD Crew Cab
| Engine/Transmission | Axle Ratio | Curb Weight (lbs.) | GCWR (lbs.) | Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.) |
| 3.7L Automatic | 3.73 | 4,070 | 9,800 | 5,500 |
| 5.3L V8 Automatic | 3.42/4.10 | 4,218 | 10,400 | 6,000 |
2012 Chevy Colorado Towing Package
The 2012 Chevy Colorado optional towing package enhances the truck’s towing capabilities, and safety features ensure a seamless towing experience. By equipping with this package, you can confidently tow trailers, campers, boats, or other heavy loads efficiently and securely. Let’s explore the features included in the towing package:
- Trailer Hitch Receiver: A heavy-duty trailer hitch receiver designed to provide a secure connection point for attaching a trailer or other towing accessories.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: This helps maintain stability and control while towing by synchronizing the braking system between the truck and the trailer, enhancing safety and reducing wear on the brake components.
- 7-Pin Connector: The 7-pin trailer wiring connector enables seamless communication between the truck and the trailer, providing power to the trailer’s lights, brakes, and other electrical components.
The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer. Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Also, read the vehicle Owner’s Manual for important feature limitations and information.
2012 Chevy Colorado Safety features
With an array of advanced safety features and robust construction, it provides peace of mind for both daily commutes and thrilling escapades. Whether navigating busy city streets or venturing off the beaten path, you can trust Colorado to keep you and your loved ones protected. Colorado is designed to help drivers avoid crashes and protect vehicle occupants during and after a crash.
- Standard driver and passenger frontal and head curtain side-impact airbags with a passenger on-off switch.
- StabiliTrak’s electronic stability control system helps reduce the risk of rollover crashes by keeping the vehicle in the driver’s intended path by applying throttle, braking, or a combination of both.
- The Four-wheel anti-lock brake system provides directional stability in the event of an emergency braking maneuver. Standard traction control helps limit wheel sleep when accelerating on slippery surfaces such as water, ice, or a gravel road.
- Vehicle anti-theft system helps by sounding an alarm if the vehicle is tampered with by thieves.
- Daytime Running Lamps make the vehicle more visible to other motorists and pedestrians.
- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat attachment system is included in all second-row seating positions
- Tire pressure monitoring system, standard on all models
Explore more: 2016 Chevrolet Colorado towing capacity. 2015 Chevrolet Colorado towing capacity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2012 Chevy Colorado stands as an impressive choice for those seeking a versatile and capable truck with a commendable towing capacity. With its design and advanced engineering, it delivers a towing capability that exceeds expectations. Its rugged exterior, engine options, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features make it a standout choice for those who crave both adventure and refinement. Whether hauling heavy loads or towing recreational equipment, Colorado’s towing capacity empowers drivers to confidently navigate diverse terrain and conquer demanding challenges.
Aaron Bennett is an accomplished author and a true aficionado when it comes to pickup trucks. With an unwavering passion for all things automotive, Aaron has dedicated his life to exploring the world of pickups and sharing his expertise with others. As the proud owner of several powerful machines, he has spent countless hours behind the wheel, navigating rugged terrains and conquering highways with unrivaled enthusiasm.
