Chevrolet Colorado

Chevrolet completely redesigned the Colorado for the 2023 model year, giving its mid-size pickup a rugged new look, a much-improved cabin and more standard equipment. Among the available technology features were an 8-inch digital instrument panel, 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, improved off-road camera angles and a trailer-hitch guidance system. The sole body style was a four-door crew cab with a short bed, and the previous generation’s diesel and V-6 engine options were dropped. However, the new turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engines provided more power, with the high-output version producing 310 horsepower and 430 pounds-feet of torque. The off-road-focused ZR2 trim was joined by a more budget-friendly Trail Boss trim, and an aftermarket-enhanced ZR2 Bison trim was added for 2024.

The Colorado took a short hiatus before returning for 2015, just as the number of small pickups on sale began to dwindle. A full redesign brought a fresh, modern appearance and new powertrains. Bigger than its predecessor, the second-generation Colorado is more of a mid-size pickup as opposed to a compact one. It’s available with a 6-foot, 2-inch or 5-foot, 2-inch bed with rear corner steps in the bumper, and in extended or crew cab form. Interior quality is much better than the previous generation. The 2016 model year saw the debut of a turbo-diesel 2.8-liter four-cylinder engine. For 2017, the off-road-oriented ZR2 arrived with a modified body, knobby tires and special shock absorbers for intense off-roading.

The Colorado debuted for 2004 as a replacement for the S-10 pickup truck. Power came from a standard 175-horsepower, 2.8-liter four-cylinder engine or an available 220-hp, 3.5-liter five-cylinder. The engines were slightly enlarged for 2007, resulting in higher outputs for both. A new, optional 300-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 arrived in 2009. Side curtain airbags became standard in 2010.