As someone who writes on the continuing developments within the automotive industry each year, I constantly need to be “in the know,” as it were. This means keeping up with the latest developments and features available with each passing model year to assist the vehicle-buying public in making informed decisions regarding their purchases, particularly those who might be considering a Chevy Colorado for sale.
Of all the trucks in its particular class, the Chevy Colorado has always impressed me with its versatility in various applications. For those with occupation obligations to consider, its towing capacity of 7,700 lbs outperforms the competition. Those who favor their adventures on the road less traveled can take advantage of the ZR2 Bison. While some are certainly nostalgic for the Chevy S-10, the Colorado has proven to be a competent successor and up to the task.
Today, I focus on an aspect of the Colorado that is undoubtedly intriguing and has nothing to do with the truck’s powertrain and performance. The StowFlex Tailgate, one in a long line of multi-purpose tailgates that have become popular since GMC pioneered the concept, offers drivers the chance to take full advantage of various uses that can make tailgating or workplace activities more accessible and more convenient than ever before.
Still New and Exciting
Something must be said about items that debut and cause considerable excitement. That novelty eventually wears off, and the item simply becomes a standard feature that we tend to expect all vehicles to come equipped with. Airbags, tire pressure monitoring systems, and infotainment screens are all essential for the modern driver, but they’re also things we’ve gotten used to now. The StowFlex Tailgate, first available during the 2023 model year, still generates excitement among bow-tie brand devotees.
First and foremost, the StowFex Tailgate offers a unique method of storage that no one might have previously conceptualized. The compartment that resides in the tailgate provides a discernible level of security for essential items you might not want to have visible when loading or unloading or if you’re at a tailgate party. You want to keep items out of reach. The compartment is large enough to accommodate multiple items, as its storage dimensions are generous. A 45-inch wide and 4-inch deep storage compartment can hold many personal items. Not only will the StowFlex tailgate keep these items out of sight and out of mind, but you’ll also have the advantage of keeping them safe, thanks to its watertight design.
Kicking Out the Jams
The advantages of having the StowFlex tailgate extend far beyond simply having additional and hidden storage for those times that call for it. If you’re gearing up for a tailgate party, you no longer have to worry about bringing that stereo from home or hoping someone has a decent sound system in their vehicle to provide the necessary entertainment.
The StowFlex can be equipped with a Bluetooth audio system by the experts at Kicker. This system operates separately from the internal stereo, meaning you can keep your door locked up and secure while you and your friends are entertained with your favorite jams. This is one of the most unique aspects of Chevy’s new tailgate. Much has been said about having multiple positions and methods of opening, but the aspect of an available stereo system is too significant to pass up.
The StowFlex Tailgate is Available
OK, I know what you’re thinking. You probably assume that, much like other features generating considerable excitement, Colorado’s new StowFlex Tailgate is only available on the top-tier trims. Well, you would certainly be wrong in that assumption. While it comes standard on the high-end ZR2 trim of the Colorado, the StowFlex Tailgate can be equipped on every single trim through some of the available packages that Chevy offers at the time of purchase.
Available Convenience Packages
Chevy’s WT trim, popular among drivers who utilize their vehicle for workplace applications, can access the StowFlex Tailgate by choosing the available WT Convenience Package II. This grants access to the StowFlex and an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support. If you’ve decided on the LT or Trail Boss models and want to be the hero of your next tailgating experience, the StowFlex Tailgate is included in other trim-specific convenience packages, too.
The Z71 trim, one of the most coveted among prospective Chevy Colorado drivers, can be equipped with the StowFlex Tailgate, among several other features included in the Z71 Convenience Package II. In addition to the Colorado’s unique tailgate, you’ll also get wireless phone charging, heated seats, and dual-zone climate control, among many other items that are almost too good to pass up.
Outfit your Colorado’s Bed Even Further
Spray-On Bedliner
Whether you’re looking to utilize the StowFlex tailgate for work or play, there are a few accessories that you should also consider adding on. The first of these is the factory spray-on bedliner. The textured surface ensures that any items you transport remain in their proper position and don’t slide around. The chemically bonded material also provides a watertight seal, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about the onset of rust or corrosion if caught in the rain.
120-Volt Box-Mounted Power Outlet
Another helpful accessory to have on hand is a 120-volt power outlet that can be mounted in the Chevy Colorado‘s bed. With a three-pronged outlet, you can ensure that additional appliances, such as laptops and cell phone chargers, are powered on. You even have the prospect of having additional lights plugged in to keep the working day or tailgate party going after the sun goes down.
Cargo Bed LED Lighting
Another helpful accessory in terms of visibility is LED lighting for the cargo bed. These are mounted underneath the bed rails and can be very effective in helping you locate items when visibility is less than stellar.
Additional Bedliner Storage Compartments
If you often have tailgate get-togethers or simply want additional storage in your cargo bed to supplement the extra room the StowFlex tailgate offers, you can install additional storage compartments into the bedliner. Whether you’re on the job site and need a place to store some tools or just need some extra space for some party supplies, make Colorado the ultimate symbol of convenience.
My Final Thoughts on the StowFlex Tailgate
In the years I’ve been writing about Chevy and its fleet of trucks, I’ve been continually impressed with how versatile and unique each one is. New features are introduced every year that demonstrate just how far the industry advances. Sometimes, it’s not a new powertrain or driving assistance feature that I find the most fascinating, but just a simple improvement on an older concept can make all the difference in the world.
The StowFlex tailgate is just such an item. Not only does Chevy’s new tailgate provide additional storage for those moments when you need extra room or want to keep something out of sight, but its capacity to also provide an independent sound system for those tailgating events is a touch that might have been considered before, but seeing it put into practice is undoubtedly rewarding. It might be impossible to reinvent the wheel, but Chevy has proven that you can reinvent the tailgate.
