Mark Allen Chevrolet - Can the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado Tow a 7,000-pound Boat for Summer Weekends near Jenks, OK?
Weekend plans around area lakes come down to two questions—will your truck handle the trip, and will it make towing feel manageable when the ramp is packed? The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado answers both with stout torque from its standard turbocharged 2.7-liter engine and a suite of practical towing aids, including a hitch view in the backup camera that makes one-person hookups far less stressful. With select configurations rated to tow up to 7,700 pounds, a properly outfitted Colorado can comfortably manage a 7,000-pound boat and trailer combination, while the off-road-tuned ZR2 is rated to 6,000 pounds for those who prioritize trail performance.
Power is only part of the story. Control matters just as much, especially when you’re pulling a substantial load through traffic or easing down a slick ramp. The Colorado’s stable chassis tuning, 8-speed automatic, and strong, early torque help you launch smoothly and keep shifts calm on grades. The large 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto simplifies your drive to the lake by keeping navigation and communications front and center without cords. And when it’s time to park the rig, available 360-degree camera views enhance awareness all around the truck and trailer.
Before you hitch up, it helps to map out the right configuration. If you’re consistently over 6,000 pounds with passengers and gear, aim for a Colorado rated to the 7,700-pound max. If you split time between trails and towing, the ZR2 brings Multimatic DSSV dampers and locking front and rear differentials for the terrain you love, with a 6,000-pound tow figure that still supports many fishing boats and wake setups. Either way, the built-in hitch view camera is a game-changer for busy marinas, letting you line up cleanly on the first try.
Once you know the configuration that fits your load, dial in your towing routine to keep trips easy and predictable.
- Weigh your setup: Verify the combined weight of boat, trailer, fuel, and gear stays within your truck’s tow rating and tongue weight limits.
- Balance tongue weight: Aim for appropriate tongue weight distribution and secure cargo to minimize sway.
- Use hitch view: Leverage the camera’s hitch view for fast, precise hookups when you’re solo at the ramp.
- Plan the route: Use Google Maps within Google Built-In or your preferred app via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to avoid low bridges and tight turns.
- Practice launches: On a quiet day, simulate a ramp start, paying attention to traction and throttle modulation.
A thoughtful setup and a truck designed with towing in mind take the drama out of busy weekends. With the right trim and equipment, the Colorado turns hauling a 7,000-pound boat into a repeatable, low-stress routine that lets you focus on the fun part of the day.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado tow a 7,000-pound boat safely?
Yes—select configurations are rated up to 7,700 pounds, giving you the buffer you want for a 7,000-pound combined boat and trailer. If you’re close to the limit, we recommend choosing a configuration that reaches the 7,700-pound rating.
Is the off-road-focused ZR2 still good for towing?
The ZR2 is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds. It’s ideal if you prioritize technical terrain thanks to Multimatic DSSV dampers and locking differentials, but for heavier boats, choose a configuration with the 7,700-pound rating.
What tech helps with hitching and maneuvering at the marina?
The backup camera’s hitch view streamlines hookups, while available 360-degree camera coverage aids low-speed maneuvering in crowded lots. Inside, the 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In keeps navigation and towing-related info easy to access.
Who can help me select the right configuration?
Our team can walk your exact boat and trailer specs against the Colorado’s ratings and options, ensuring you choose a truck that fits your routine with room to spare.
When you’re ready to fine-tune a build, one conversation saves time and eliminates guesswork. Mark Allen Chevrolet is here to help match your boat, your terrain, and your travel plans with the right configuration and accessories—serving Jenks, Bixby, and Sapulpa with straightforward guidance and support.