2005 Chevrolet Colorado Z85

The Colorado is Chevy's compact pickup, a smaller, more maneuverable alternative to the full-size Silverado for buyers who don't need a huge bed or big towing capacity. It rides smoothly and is easy to drive, and the four-wheel-drive versions send power to all four wheels, which is a real plus off pavement. The cab offers decent space for passengers, though the rear seats in extended-cab models are tight, and the bed is on the small side. Electrical issues are the most common complaint, from radios and window motors to brake light shorts, so it's worth checking those systems before you buy. The Z85 is the base Colorado, with a smaller 3.5L I5 than the Z71's optional 5-cylinder and no off-road suspension, but it keeps the price low and the ride comfortable. Its 3.5L I5 makes 175 horsepower and pairs with a five-speed automatic, which is enough for daily driving and gets 21 mpg combined. You get rear-wheel drive here, so it's lighter and simpler than a 4WD model, which helps fuel economy and keeps the payload capacity at a useful level.