No longer content to let the imports have all sales, Chevrolet is back in the midsize pickup business with the all-new Colorado. The former generation, which faded out in 2012, didn't exactly set the marketplace on fire with its trucky feel and lackluster efficiency. Rest assured the rough spots have been eliminated this time around, and the Colorado will likely appeal to a whole new set of buyers.
What's New for 2015
The Colorado is totally new this year.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Colorado
The new Colorado bears more than a passing resemblance to the full-size Silverado. The blocky front end, wide-open grille and beefy fenders are clearly cribbed from the larger truck with pleasing results. You have a choice of two body styles: an extended cab with narrow rear-hinged back doors and a 6-foot bed, and a four-door crew cab with a 5- or 6-foot bed.
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 200 horsepower, enough for everyday driving and light hauling. The available 3.6-liter V6 provides a boost to 305 horsepower and allows the Canyon to tow up to 7,000 pounds. All but the most basic Colorados get a six-speed automatic transmission and can be equipped with four-wheel drive.
Here's a rundown of what you get at each trim level:
The LT and Z71 can get a Bose 7-speaker sound system and navigation as standalone options.
The crew cab adds about $5,000 to the price of Colorado, whereas the difference between trim levels is around $2,000. So if you don't really need four proper doors, you can stick with the extended cab and get a lot more equipment for your money.