The 2026 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss and Z71 are both popular, midsize truck trims offering strong performance and capability. This comparison will detail the differences in capability, design, comfort, and performance to help determine which Chevy Colorado is right for you.
Shared Features and Specs
Both the Trail Boss and Z71 trims of the Chevy Colorado share the 2.7L TurboMax® engine, producing 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard technology includes an 11.3-inch diagonal center touchscreen with Google built-in, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Chevy Safety Assist.
2026 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss
The Trail Boss trim is designed for drivers who want off-road capability straight from the factory. It features a 2-inch factory-installed lift, which increases ground clearance to 9.51 inches for rough terrain and helps navigate obstacles more confidently. The Trail Boss also comes standard with 32-inch all-terrain tires, an automatic locking rear differential, and a two-speed transfer case, giving it traction and torque distribution designed for loose surfaces such as dirt, gravel, and uneven trails.
2026 Chevy Colorado Z71
The Z71 trim also prioritizes off-road capability but offers additional premium features not found on the Trail Boss. Like the Trail Boss, the Z71 is equipped with 18-inch wheels with 32-inch all-terrain tires and the same set of selectable drive modes and off-road performance display.
The Z71 does not include the 2” factory lift found on the Trail Boss, but retains a respectable 8.9 inches of ground clearance with its suspension and tire setup. 20-inch wheels are also available on the Z71.
The Z71 adds upgraded LED headlamps, taillamps, and fog lights, a refined interior with Jet Black upholstery and Adrenaline Red accents, and available interior features such as ventilated front seats and a Bose premium audio system.
The 2026 Colorado Z71 is a great option for those looking for a mid-size truck that can handle off-road terrain, but doesn’t sacrifice daily driving comfort.
Exterior Color Options
2026 Colorado Trail Boss available exterior colors include:
- Summit White
- Black
- Sterling Gray Metallic
- White Sands
- Reef Blue Metallic
- Radiant Red Tintcoat
2026 Colorado Z71 available exterior colors include:
- Summit White
- Black
- Sterling Gray Metallic
- Sunrise Orange
- Snowdrift Metallic
- Radiant Red Tintcoat
Technology and Interior Features
The 2026 Colorado Trail Boss interior includes the standard 11.3” diagonal LCD display with Google built-in, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Jet Black cloth front bucket seats. Adding the Trail Boss Convenience Package II and Technology Package gives you adaptive cruise control, HD Surround Vision, power driver seat adjuster, heated steering wheel and front seats, Evotex seat trim, wireless phone charging, and more.
The 2026 Colorado Z71 adds additional interior upgrades like unique interior accents, power-adjustable driver seating, and standard remote start. The Z71 Convenience Package III adds leather-appointed seating, driver memory settings, ventilated front seats, and heated steering wheel. The available Technology Package adds HD Surround Vision, adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert, and a Bose premium audio system.
Which Colorado Should You Choose?
The 2026 Colorado Trail Boss and Z71 are both capable mid-size trucks that offer unique features and options. The Trail Boss offers a slight advantage for off-road capability with its ground clearance and wider stance. The Colorado Z71 offers additional features and upgraded interior options that make daily driving more comfortable. If you prioritize off-road capability and aren’t looking for the more premium materials and features included in the Z71, the Trail Boss is a great choice. If you prefer the slightly upscale interior of the Z71 and care more about available features than maximum off-road capability, the Chevy Colorado Z71 is a clear winner.
Shop New Chevy Colorado Trucks in Topeka, KS
Both the 2026 Colorado Trail Boss and Z71 offer compelling reasons to choose them. Explore our current inventory of new Chevrolet Colorado trucks for sale in Topeka, KS and contact us at Cable Dahmer of Topeka to schedule a test drive and compare models in person.
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