The new Colorado continues to use an independent front suspension with a solid rear axle with leaf springs.

The V-6 and the Duramax Diesel that were available in the previous Colorado are no longer offered. If those numbers sound familiar, it's because it's the same engine offered on Chevy's full-size Silverado 1500. The crown-jewel ZR2 powertrain delivers 310 horsepower but raises torque to 430 foot-pounds. It's also available as optional equipment for WT and LT trims. The better-equipped Z71 and Trail Boss models use the 310 horsepower version of the same turbo 2.7-liter with 390 pound-feet of torque, giving it more power and torque than the V-6 powertrains found in the Jeep Gladiator, Ridgeline, and Tacoma. That's far more than the 159-hp four-cylinder in the base Toyota Tacoma. WT and LT models come standard with 237 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic serves as the transmission for all Colorados. Engine, Transmission, and PerformanceĮvery Colorado is powered by Chevy's turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine with various outputs determined by trim level.

It doesn't have the sweet Multimatic spool valve dampers and lockable front and rear diffs of the ZR2, but it shares its rear limited-slip diff with the Z71. In fact, it's even got an extra 1.5 inches of front suspension travel versus the WT, LT, and Z71 trims, with an additional inch of travel in the rear. The Trail Boss comes with 32-inch all-terrain tires and fender flares that make it look like a tough guy. While our heart beats for the high-flying ZR2 trim with 10.7-inches of ground clearance, 33-inch tires, and enough LED lighting to work the stage at a techno concert, we think the budget-minded Trail Boss delivers almost as much mud-flinging fun and does it for a lot less.

Colorado blade size comparison