The Chevrolet Colorado has earned its reputation as a versatile midsize pickup that balances power, practicality, and maneuverability. One of the most important considerations for buyers looking at the Colorado is bed size, which directly affects how much cargo the truck can carry and how well it fits into everyday life.
In this article, we’ll explore the different bed size options available for the Chevy Colorado, how they vary by cab configuration, and what that means for usability and payload capacity.
Chevy Colorado Cab and Bed Configurations
The Chevy Colorado offers two primary cab styles, each of which pairs with specific bed lengths:
1. Extended Cab – Long Bed
- Cab Style: Extended Cab (seats 4)
- Bed Length: 74 inches (6 feet 2 inches)
- Configuration: This is the only available bed for the Extended Cab.
- Use Case: Ideal for those who need more cargo space than passenger seating.
2. Crew Cab – Short Bed
- Cab Style: Crew Cab (seats 5)
- Bed Length: 61.7 inches (5 feet 2 inches)
- Configuration: Offers a balance between interior passenger room and bed length.
- Use Case: Best for families or those who frequently carry passengers but still want bed utility.
3. Crew Cab – Long Bed
- Cab Style: Crew Cab (seats 5)
- Bed Length: 74 inches (6 feet 2 inches)
- Configuration: Combines spacious seating with maximum bed capacity.
- Use Case: Great for both work and play—perfect for hauling tools, bikes, or gear with plenty of interior comfort.
Bed Dimensions and Cargo Volume
Here’s a quick comparison of the bed dimensions:
| Configuration | Bed Length (in) | Width (between wheel wells) | Depth (in) | Cargo Volume (cu. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Cab – Short Bed | 61.7 | 44.4 | 20.9 | ~41.3 |
| Crew Cab – Long Bed | 74.0 | 44.4 | 20.9 | ~49.9 |
| Extended Cab – Long Bed | 74.0 | 44.4 | 20.9 | ~49.9 |
Note: All bed sizes have similar width and depth, so the main difference is length and total volume.
Practical Considerations
Towing and Payload Capacity
Bed size alone doesn’t determine how much your Colorado can haul—but it contributes. Longer beds often come with configurations that allow for greater payload capacity, especially when paired with the right suspension and drivetrain.
- Maximum Payload: Up to 1,500+ lbs depending on trim and configuration.
- Maximum Towing: Up to 7,700 lbs (when properly equipped with the available 2.8L Duramax® Turbo-Diesel).
Bed Features
Chevy offers smart utility features across all bed sizes, including:
- CornerStep rear bumper
- EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate
- 17 tie-down points
- Available spray-in bedliner
- GearOn™ utility racks (optional)
Which Bed Size Should You Choose?
Choosing the right bed size depends on your lifestyle:
- Short Bed (61.7 inches): Easier to park, more agile in city driving. Great for commuters, light-duty hauling, and weekend warriors.
- Long Bed (74 inches): More cargo capacity, ideal for construction, camping, or heavy equipment transport. Slightly less maneuverable but offers more versatility.
Conclusion
The Chevy Colorado offers a range of bed sizes to meet various needs, from daily drivers to serious work trucks. Whether you need the short bed for tight urban parking or the long bed for hauling gear to the jobsite or campsite, there’s a configuration that fits your life.
If you’re in the market for a midsize truck that doesn’t compromise on utility, the Colorado’s bed options make it a strong contender in its class.
