The Chevrolet Colorado midsize truck has been completely redesigned for the 2023 model year. Big changes to power, technology and off-road capability are in store.
Chevy says it wanted to focus on an upgraded design, increased functionality and new and useful technology with the truck, which now has a single wheel drive and a single Crew Cab configuration.
The new 2023 Chevrolet Colorado pickup will continue to compete with the Toyota Tacoma, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier and Ford Ranger.
The new Chevrolet midsize truck has a 3.1-inch longer wheelbase than the current Crew Cab model with a shorter front overhang improving its ability to climb a hill or over an obstacle.
The 2023 lineup includes the Work Truck, LT, Z71, ZR2 and Trail Boss trim levels.
There are three stop lengths. Colorado Work Truck, LT and Z71 trims ride on standard height. The Colorado Trail Boss comes with a 2-inch lift and the Colorado ZR2 comes with a 3-inch lift.
The off-road oriented ZR2 is where the new Desert Boss grade with 33-inch diameter mud tires, special shocks, different locks, different styles and other dirty things lands.
Base Work Truck and LT versions come standard with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder (called Turbo in these trims) making 237 horsepower (hp) and 259 pound-ft (lb-ft) of torque. The same engine is offered in the full-size Chevrolet Silverado, albeit with higher output. The base trims can tow 3,500 pounds.
The upgraded ZR1 and Trail Boss come with a Turbo Plus version that produces 310 hp and 390 lb-ft.
The top-tier Colorado ZR2 models will have a “Turbo High Output” engine that produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Both it and the High Output have a towing rating of 7,000 pounds.
Two- and four-wheel drive are offered, both with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The 2023 Colorado has five optional drive modes, depending on the model, including Normal, Tow/Haul, Off-Road, Terrain and Baja. The last three are used for leaving a trail of dirt, gravel, sand or gravel.
Inside, the new 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard and features key functions and adjustable screens for trailer and off-road driving. Google Built-in handles maps and music.
The new Off-Road Performance Display shows altitude and GPS as well as pitch (leaning forward or backward), roll (leaning sideways) and tire pressure. The Baja model shows g-force, wheel slip indicator and four-wheel drive mode.
The Chevy Colorado has up to 10 rear view cameras including one under the body and one pointed at the hitch and trailer to help drivers connect and disconnect. The Trailering App that helps them is available through the infotainment system but also through the smartphone.
Production of the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado doesn’t begin until next year with pricing coming later. The current Colorado starts at $25,500.
