Chevy’s popular mid-size pickup truck was first launched in 2004 as a replacement for the S-10 and then went on a hiatus between 2012 to 2015. Making its comeback in 2015, it was competing with the Toyota Tacoma. Now in its second generation, the Colorado is the smallest pickup in Chevrolet’s lineup – with options for two bed lengths and a gas or turbo-diesel engine. Burlington Chevrolet has all the info you need when looking for a used Chevrolet Colorado.
2004 – 2012 Chevrolet Colorado (1st Generation)
When the Colorado debuted in 2004, power came from a standard 175-horsepower, 2.8-liter engine or an available 220-horsepower, 3.5-liter five-cylinder engine. Three cab configurations were available – Crew Cab, Extended Cab, and Regular Cab. 2006 offered the available Z71 package that featured a 3.5-liter, inline five-cylinder engine that made 220 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. In 2007, more powerful 185- and 242 horsepower engines arrived, as well as the Xtreme sport edition became available. Also, in 2007, Colorado received a slight change that included a new grille, new tires, and fresh interior and exterior colors. A new optional engine arrived in 2009 that offered 300-horsepower, with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine. An upgraded brake system and stability control was now standard on all models. In 2010 side curtain airbags were standard on all models; and in 2011 OnStar version 9.0 became available with improved voice recognition and available Bluetooth phone connectivity. Before it’s hiatus, Colorado offered four-cylinder, five-cylinder, or V-8 engines; RWD or 4WD, and manual or automatic transmission.
2015-2021 Chevrolet Colorado (2nd Generation)
Just as the number of small pickups on sale began to dwindle, the Colorado returned in 2015 with a totally redesigned body, new powertrains, and three trim levels. The exterior styling debued looking more modern compared to previous models and several cab sizes and door choices were available.
This generation of Colorado embraced the mid-size pickup truck market and came available with a 6-foot, 2 inch or 5-foot, 2-inch bed, rear corner steps in the bumper, and extended or crew cab configurations. Its interior was nicer with notable upgrades; such as comfortable seating, a quiet, refined cabin, and improved passenger space, with plenty of convenience features. Chevrolet started this Colorado off offering a 2.5-liter Ecotec inline four-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque.
In 2016 a turbo-diesel 2.8 liter four-cylinder became available. Also, a MyLink multimedia system with Apple CarPlay integration was added as an option.
In 2017 towing capacity went up to 7,700 pounds and in-car Wi-Fi, four USB ports, and a new ZR2 off-road variant with a modified body, knobby tires and special shock absorber for off-roading became available. For 2021, Colorado received minor changes to the truck’s front and rear design as well as additional upgrades to the off-road ZR2.
