2024 Chevy Colorado If it were possible to use the Easy-Bake Oven to cook the perfect midsize pickup, we hope the recipe will include the following ingredients: the fun factor from the Jeep Gladiator, The rides and bed storage bins from the Honda Ridgeline, the annoying good looks of the Toyota Tacoma, and the price. the beginning of the friendly Ford Ranger. A pinch of garlic salt is okay too.
The new Chevy Colorado 2023 strives to be just that. This all-new third-generation pickup, which goes into production in the first half of next year, strives for all the best materials, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that has as much horsepower as a V-6 in Nissan’s new car Border.
The Chevrolet Colorado 2023 grows in size with a completely new and wider exterior design and a much-improved interior.
Chevy has added a 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss trim level for the Colorado 2023, but the mid-size pickup previously offered by the V-6 and Duramax diesel engine gets the boot, being replaced by a turbocharged 2.7-liter Silverado 1500 inline-four with outputs varying from 231 to 310 horsepower with 430 pound-feet of torque.
Chevy says its third-generation Colorado will begin production in the first half of 2023 at GM’s Wentzville, Missouri, assembly plant, where the Colorado and GMC Canyon are currently built.
2024 Chevy Colorado Reviews
Timing is key, and the launch of a Chevrolet Colorado was precisely timed for the second time in as many generations. After losing the midsize truck segment to Toyota and Nissan for three years, Chevy re-entered the market for the 2015 model year with a truck that excelled its older competitors so considerably that it easily won our Golden Calipers.
Chevrolet introduced an all-new 2024 Chevy Colorado, but its launch date meant it narrowly missed out on last year’s competition. In the meantime, the company released the spectacular off-road race-ready ZR2 and teased an upcoming range-topping ZR2 Bison edition.
The delay also coincided with MotorTrend moving its Truck of the Year competition to Michigan, where we’ve discovered a vastly improved playground for testing and evaluating off-road performance, allowing the ZR2—and the rest of the Colorado lineup—to shine brighter than may have been possible last year.
The 2015 Colorado borrowed significantly from a two-year-old global architecture and design, but this third-generation model is entirely new, from its longer-wheelbase Silverado-derived frame to its sole powerplant, a 2.7-liter turbo four-cylinder, and an eight-speed automated.
A beefier, more off-road competent suspension receives standard six-lug wheels, the safety equipment is comprehensively upgraded, and the design has been toughened up on the inside and out. The third-generation model did not have a variety of body configurations.
Because too few purchasers chose the longer box with either the extended or crew cabs, GM, like Ford and Jeep, now only offers its mid-sizers as a crew-cab/short-box combination. Even before it was renewed for 2023, Colorado was leading the midsize truck class in our Ultimate Buyers Guide rankings, so it came into our competition with a strong tailwind.
What Is New in 2024?
Following last year’s unveiling of its next-generation mid-size pickup, Chevy introduces the highly anticipated 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison for 2024. The Bison is an off-road-focused ZR2 with 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory Mud Terrain tires and American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) aftermarket assistance.
Chevy widened the wheel arches and gave the ZR2 Bison a wider track to accommodate the widest tires available in the mid-size truck class.
Update: 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2
The ZR2 is a mid-size king that is substantially improved to its predecessor both on and off the road.
The pickup truck is as American as apple pie, and few are more delicious than the mid-size Chevrolet Colorado. Built to perform as reliably as it can drive through the muck, Colorado’s chassis and equipment offerings accommodate even the most daring off-road adventures. All 2024 Chevy Colorado are powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While the base WT and LT trims have a 237-hp version of that engine, other trims, including the off-road-focused ZR2, get 310 ponies. Every 2024 Chevy Colorado has a four-door cab with a five-foot bed, and depending on the trim level, it may be ordered with either rear- or four-wheel drive.
With a maximum towing capacity of 7700 pounds, the 2024 Chevy Colorado can easily transport campers, boats, and snow machines. While Colorado was the new kid on the block for a year, it now confronts worthy competition from newer trucks like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma.
- Upgraded engine options provide quick acceleration and excellent hauling.
- A pickup’s riding quality is composed.
- The infotainment system benefits from Google integration.
- The ZR2 variant is extremely capable.
- Off-road/Overlanding trim ZR2 Bison
- Instead of three engine output levels, there are two.
- Changes to minor features
Originally debuting for the 2019 model year, the 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison takes the Chevy Colorado ZR2 off-road to a new level of off-road capability, featuring numerous upgrades thanks to a collaboration with aftermarket manufacturer American Expedition Vehicles (AEV).
The 2024 Chevy Colorado Bison Edition amplifies off-road capability
The Bison Edition is an off-road kit that may be added to the Colorado’s already capable ZR2 trim. It’s intended to improve the truck’s off-road capability by boosting ground clearance as well as approach, departure, and breakover angles. American Expedition Vehicles supplied the truck’s front and back bumpers, wheels, and skid plates for the Bison Edition.
The Bison’s 12.2 inches of ground clearance is aided by the 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, which house 35-inch mud-terrain tires. There’s also a set of tubular rocker protectors to protect your Bison’s fragile underbelly.
The Bison Edition also contains all of the important ZR2 equipment, including as the 3-inch lift, wider stance, Multimatic dampers, and locking front and rear differentials.
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Intended Function Execution
This is possibly the most significant category for any Truck of the Year candidate. You might expect impaired towing stability due to the lack of a 6-foot bed option (which limits maximum cargo volume) or a long-wheelbase model, but if you deliver mulch for a living or pull long RVs on vacation, you shouldn’t be shopping for a midsize pickup in the first place.
Chevrolet improves the usability of its pickup truck by including corner bed steps on all models save the ZR2, two tie-downs in each corner, and mounting points for various accessory rails or cleats as standard equipment.
A soft-open tailgate, a 400-watt, 120-volt power outlet, and an available 45-inch-wide, 4-inch-deep StowFlex storage box in the tailgate with a lid that secures the contents while the gate is secured are all standard features. It’s ideal for storing ratchet straps, tie-down ropes, work gloves, and other such items, and there’s a drain in case they get wet.
Our tests with 1,000 pounds in the bed and enough passengers aboard to exceed the gross vehicle weight limit indicated no change in handling characteristics. The 2024 Chevy Colorado tows a 7,500-pound trailer (200 pounds less than its maximums) quite well, though we would prefer larger side mirrors for big-trailer viewing. They’re adequate for towing utility trailers, pop-up campers, jet skis, and other common items with midsize trucks.
But it was off-road where the entire Colorado lineup excelled. With its Baja-ready spool-valve shocks, locking front and rear differentials, and knobby tires, the ZR2 has the go-anywhere capability of a Jeep Wrangler. “There is so much traction, so much articulation, and so much jounce absorption, it takes getting into another pickup and driving over the same terrain to truly understand its severity because you can’t tell from the Chevy’s driver’s seat,” Alexander Stoklosa, the deputy editor of Automotive News, stated. “It’s shocking how well the ZR2 drives on pavement given what it can do off-road.” “Few hardcore off-roaders manage this balancing act; Ford’s F-150 Raptor, the Ram 1500 TRX, and possibly the Land Rover Discovery being about it.”
Aside from the hardware, the digital real estate inside includes a new Off-Road Performance app that displays information like altitude and GPS overlanding guidance, pitch, roll, tire pressures, instantaneous g-forces and wheel slip, and transfer case condition. There are also up to ten camera perspectives available, which is more than any rival, including a segment-first accessible underbody camera on the Z71 and ZR2.
With its 35-inch tires, extra half-inch body lift, and equal suspension travel (9.9 inches front, 11.6 inches rear), the new-for-2024 Colorado ZR2 Bison is simply the most extreme midsize off-road truck available. We have yet to test the next Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Trailhunter models, but they will face a steep challenge to outperform the ZR2.
Even truck specialist and senior writer Jason Gonderman was taken aback by the base LT’s simpler single-speed 4WD system. “No low-range, low ground clearance, a huge air dam, and riding on street tires—damn if it didn’t go everywhere.” The Trail Boss and Z71 trims sit between the base and ZR2 4WD models, and they both get the ZR2’s one-pedal driving mode, which allows you to set an off-road cruising speed using the shift buttons on the gear lever.
“The taller ride height certainly has its advantages for getting over tough obstacles,” Gonderman said, “but the truck lacks a truly aggressive off-road tire. With true A/T tires, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss would almost be unstoppable.” However, technical editor Jered Korfhage noted that “once you learn how much throttle input the automatic locker in the rear end requires, the Trail Boss will surprise you.”
2024 Chevy Colorado Specs
We expect the 2024 Chevy Colorado to receive a complete overhaul (redesign and reengineering), introducing the third generation of the Colorado nameplate.
- Assembly site GM Wentzville Plant, Missouri, USA
- Front Engine Layout, Longitudinal
- 2.7L L3B I4″ Turbo Engine
- Automatic 10 Speed Contagion
- Rear Wheel Drive or Four Wheel Drive
- Availability United States, Canada
- The predecessor of the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado
- Successor to 2024 Chevrolet Colorado
2024 Chevy Colorado Design
The golden rule of American truck design is to make them look tough as if they could travel anywhere and haul anything. We initially praised the 2015 model’s design for pushing that envelope in a smoother, softer direction, but by the end of its run, we criticized the look as too “soft and bubbly.” This one reinterprets the Silverado’s design in a fresh and to some eyes better-proportioned way, with Stoklosa noting, “the Trail Boss’ blacked-out front end reminds me of five-o’clock shadow—it’s gruff!”
The cabin has been updated with fully digital instrumentation on two large screens and spherical outboard vents reminiscent of the Camaro. Those panels give a touch of upscale sophistication to the cabin, especially when they flash slick welcome images at startup. They also save money by controlling a variety of functions that would otherwise require costly hardware switches.
Some of Chevy’s choices on this front irritate us. Please relocate this dubious “feature” to the screen in favor of a hard button for traction/stability control, hill descent control, cameras, headlamps, or foglights. We are particularly concerned about relegating safety-related devices, such as the trailer brake controller, to a screen in the case of a digital failure.
2024 Chevy Colorado Spied
The next-generation Chevrolet Colorado cracked the cover in a series of new spy photos this week, giving us a glimpse of what to expect when GM’s compact trucks are replaced in 2023 or 2024. Thanks to still extensive camouflage, this prototype doesn’t provide much information about the new 2024 Chevy Colorado styling, but in its profile, it looks like the up-and-down rear cabin lines may be a thing of the past.
We wouldn’t be surprised to see the new Colorado adopt a more angular and square look that’s more akin to its big brother, the half-ton Silverado. The Silverado is also expected to donate what may be the only new 2024 Chevy Colorado powertrain.
Taking cues from Ford, Chevy is expected to offer a next-generation Colorado with just a turbocharged four-cylinder engine – the company’s new 2.7T for that matter.
The massive, 310-horsepower four-pot could easily overtake the 3.6L V6 currently available in GM twins and a 270-hp Ranger one-up to boot. This will mark the end of the V6 and diesel options offered in GM’s midsize trucks and follows the company’s slow and silent effort to eliminate lower-margin models.
We say “truck” because, well, whatever happens with the Chevy will most likely translate to GMC. Canyon will be scheduled to be replaced at the same time, and will likely continue as a re-skin of Chevy’s offering.
We can’t say exactly when Chevrolet will start selling next-generation 2024 Chevy Colorado, but with the prototype in fairly complete condition, we hope it won’t be long. Rumors suggest it could hit the market in 2023 as a 2024 model.
2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 SpyShot
Now, the upcoming 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison has been spotted being tested on public roads. Despite being covered in thick camouflage, this 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison prototype still gives us some interesting information to analyze, starting with the wheels. Around the corners, we see what appears to be a set of Beadlock-enabled rollers, which are finished in black and wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler rubber.
Notably, two different wheel designs are on display between the two different prototype models seen. The tires are likely 35 inches, similar to the Ford Bronco Sasquatch.
Also notable is the impressive ride height, which is certainly in line with the 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison’s demeanor and off-road capabilities. Further updates will include revisions to the unique front and rear bumpers, which provide better clearance for the pickup, plus stronger skid plates to match. There is also a wider stance, with additional fender flares under the vinyl camouflage. Also, check the rocker guards on the wings.
Behind, we see this 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison prototype equipped with a bedside spare wheel mount, which is mounted up front near the cabin. Finally, one of the prototypes was seen towing a trailer, which is especially important considering the ZR2 is the least capable model in the 2024 Chevy Colorado lineup in terms of trailer weight, according to previous GM Authority coverage.
GM has just unveiled its latest third-generation Chevy Colorado for the 2023 model year, featuring a new exterior, overhauled interior, and a new powertrain lineup as well. Under the hood, the third-generation 2024 Chevy Colorado is powered by GM’s 2.7L I4 L3B turbocharged petrol engine, which is available in three tuning conditions depending on the trim level selected.
The Chevy Colorado ZR2 runs the top-of-the-line 2.7L Turbo High-Output setup as standard, with output rated at 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Under the skin, the third-generation Chevy Colorado uses an updated version of the GMT 31XX platform dubbed the 31XX-2. Production will begin early next year at GM’s Wentzville plant in Missouri.
2024 Chevy Colorado Redesign
The 2024 Chevy Colorado, which was redesigned only last year, delivers the most up-to-date technology, style, and trends in the midsize truck class. Chevy reduced the Colorado’s configuration possibilities last year, making it only available with a four-door cab and a 5-foot bed. There are five trim levels available in both two- and four-wheel drive. There is only one engine available: a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder with two output options. The Bison Edition, an off-road/overlanding-focused trim, is new this year.
The redesigned GMC Canyon midsize pickup will diverge from its platform counterpart, the Chevrolet Colorado, to more closely resemble another nameplate under the GMC brand.
The two retooled midsize pickups are expected to go on sale next year as the 2024 model. The windshields on both trucks appear more slanted and the overall dimensions appear larger, with an emphasis on aerodynamic improvements.
The updated mid-size pickup truck looks to have a revised look and an upgraded interior. A new teaser video shows an updated version of the 2023 Chevrolet mid-size pickup truck, Colorado, crossing the desert ahead of its official debut on July 28.
GM’s two smaller trucks, Colorado and the closely related GMC Canyon are being redesigned for the 2023 model year, and the company describes the trucks as “all new.”
We think that means both will have new bodies and improved interiors, although we think the truck’s foundation will remain largely the same.
- A new version of the Chevy Colorado pickup is coming in 2023.
- The teaser shows the ZR2 model, which has lots of add-ons for off-roading.
- The new truck will debut on July 28, and a similar GMC Canyon AT4X is also coming.
In the teaser, we can see that the front of Colorado looks different, as well as the taillights.
The version featured is the off-road-oriented ZR2, which has thick all-terrain tires, a light bar at the rear of the cab, and what Chevy calls the “Safari Bar” at the front. Like the current ZR2, the new model will likely have suspension upgrades including different shocks and a higher ride height.
Chevy GMC’s brother Canyon will also be adding an off-road model called the AT4X which should be on par with the ZR2; the model has also been teased and appears to have a different body than the current truck.
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2024 Chevy Colorado Interior
The interior of Colorado is thoroughly planned out. The majority of the control buttons and knobs are robust and easy to locate with a glance. Chevy put a lot of time and attention into this interior. There is a lot of hard plastic around, but it should hold up nicely over time.
We don’t like that the headlight control has been relocated to the touchscreen and doesn’t have a redundant physical switch, but Chevy probably figured that most purchasers would leave it in auto and never touch it. Fortunately, sight is adequate, and the 2024 Chevy Colorado lacks large truck-like blind zones. The cabin seems roomy and airy in the front, although taller backseat passengers may battle for knee room.
The redesigned interior is another big improvement over the previous pickup. Every 2024 Chevy Colorado comes with a large 11.3-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto connectivity and wireless Apple CarPlay.
It’s the biggest screen in the smaller truck segment — at least until the upcoming 2023 Ranger goes on sale later this year with a 12.1-inch screen available. The gearshift now favors the passenger side of the cabin, and the cupholders are located just below and in front of the center console instead of being tucked across the gear selector.
A new gauge cluster and steering wheel complete the updated design. Dual-zone climate control with rear seat climate is also available. Chevy will even sell red or yellow seat belts for the Z71 or ZR2 models if you need that extra interior touch. A sunroof is also part of the available equipment.
The new 2024 Chevy Colorado also gets an Off-Road Performance Display. This app provides information about vehicle tire pressure, pitch, roll, g-force, GPS, and altitude depending on the driving mode. While Colorado will not have a Sport mode, its Tow/Haul, Off-Road, Terrain, and Baja options are adapted for situations where certain throttle and shift control is required.
Among the camera views — there are up to 10 of them — Hitch Guidance Colorado software, now standard, is there to help you set up obstacles on your first try. The additional Hitch View takes the camera one step further, with an enlarged view.
Cargo and comfort
The interior design of the new-generation Colorado was revolutionary. Every 2024 Chevy Colorado has four doors and a crew cab. Inside, the center console has been redesigned, the shifter has been relocated closer to the passenger side of the cab, and the cupholders have been relocated directly in front of the center console rather than opposite the gear selector.
The redesigned design is completed by a new instrument cluster, infotainment screen, and steering wheel. Overall, headroom has decreased by an inch compared to the previous Colorado, although legroom and shoulder space remain nearly the same. Taking a page from the Honda Ridgeline’s playbook, ZR2 versions include a shallow 45-inch-wide lockable storage box in the tailgate as standard.
Storage
Storage in Colorado is subpar. The door pockets are too small to be useful, and the compartment beneath the rear bench is attractive but lacks storage space (albeit it does have a 60/40 split). The middle console, on the other hand, is deep, and there’s a barrier that makes it a two-level room, which is excellent. We also like how the phone slots have been integrated into the cupholders.
Towing and hauling are two areas where the 2024 Chevy Colorado shines. The Colorado can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, which is the most in its class. It also features an optional tow package that monitors the mileage of your trailer and can diagnose problems with it.
It has a maximum payload of 1,685 pounds, which puts it near the top of the midsize truck class. It also has a convenient in-tailgate storage area and a 240-volt household outlet in the bed for powering small gadgets.
Connectivity and infotainment
The 2024 Chevy Colorado comes standard with a huge 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The Colorado also includes wireless phone charging but preserves USB connections in case your devices require them.
The Colorado may be outfitted with Google Built-In, a subscription service that handles navigation, music, and other car features configured through your Google account. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included in every 2024 Chevy Colorado.
Technology
When it comes to this sector of trucks, the Colorado is the pinnacle of technology. The screens inside are bright and crisp, and the instrument panel may be customized with numerous viewpoints.
The infotainment system is powered by Google’s Android software, and the Chevy is all the better for it. It has smart and simple voice recognition, Alexa for Amazon users, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There are numerous driver aids available, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering. Parking and navigating tight off-road paths are made easier with the included 360-degree camera system.
2024 Chevy Colorado Engine/Powertrain
We expect the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Engine to offer only one engine option – the GM 2.7L L3B turbocharged four-cylinder engine with TriPower technology.
In the Silverado 1500, the engine produces 310 horsepower (231 kW) @ 5600 RPM and 348 pound-feet (471 Nm) @ 1500 rpm of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission will be the only power option.
Accordingly, the Colorado 2023 is expected to discontinue the Duramax turbo-diesel engine option and the six-cylinder engine option. For comparison, a second-generation Colorado is offered with three engine options:
| Engine | Transmission | Horsepower @ RPM | Torque @ RPM | Rear Axle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L I-4 LCV gasoline | 6-speed automatic MYB | 200 @ 6300 | 191 @ 4400 | 4.10 |
| 3.6L V-6 LGZ gasoline | 8-speed automatic M5T | 308 @ 6800 | 275 @ 4000 | 3.42 |
| 2.8L I-4 LWN diesel | 6-speed automatic MYB | 181 @ 3400 | 369 @ 2000 | 3.42 |
Next Chevy Colorado Platforms
The third-generation Chevrolet Colorado will use an updated version of the same GMT 31XX platform used by the second-generation model.
The updated architecture will be known as 31XX-2 internally at GM. It will be shared with GMC Canyon 2023 and later.
Before November 2018, GM plans to develop a new platform called the 32XX for third-generation Colorado (and Canyon).
That architecture will also support GM’s proposed Jeep Wrangler fighter. However, the competitor Wrangler was canceled as part of GM’s ongoing restructuring and cost optimization efforts.
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New Chevy Colorado Refresh
Expected Changes, Updates, and New Features. Here are the changes we expect for Colorado 2023:
- Completely new exterior
- New interior
- Highly revised platform (though not all new)
- New powertrain lineup
- New active safety features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Zone Alert, etc.
- Check out the full 2023 Chevrolet Colorado change log (coming soon).
New Chevy Colorado 2024
The old Colorado and GMC Canyon were once two of only three midsize pickups to offer a diesel powertrain, but not anymore.
The 2024 Chevy Colorado will be powered exclusively by a Chevy 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engine bolted to an updated eight-speed automatic transmission. Power varies between trim levels.
Base WT and 2024 Chevrolet Colorado LT trims come standard with 237 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The maximum towing capacity of this powertrain is 3500 pounds.
The mid-level Z71 and new Trail Boss trim for 2023 come with 310 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque with a maximum towing of 7700 pounds. It’s the highest in its segment. This powertrain is also available for WT and 2024 Chevrolet Colorado LT levels.
Lastly, the big-daddy ZR2 has the same horsepower as the Z71 and Trail Boss, but with 430 pound-feet of torque at 3000 rpm. That’s 121 horsepower and a 61-pound-foot increase over the outgoing diesel engine.
Chevy says any trim can be upgraded to a high-output engine through their Limited Production Option (LPO) preorder offer.
The 2.7-liter fuel economy rating hasn’t been published by the EPA yet, but Chevy told us it’s roughly the same as the last-generation EPA’s 19-city and 25-highway 2.5-liter pickup truck ratings.
The 2.7-liter turbocharged engine is equipped with stop/start technology and active cylinder management which reduces combustion to just two cylinders when necessary to save fuel.
2024 Chevy Colorado Trim
Previously offered as a package for the LT and Z71 models, the Trail Boss now has its trim levels. It uses the same wide front as the ZR2 model but with a smaller 2.0-inch factory lift for 9.4-inch ground clearance and 32-inch Goodyear Territory AT tires wrapped around 18-inch wheels.
The Z71 uses the same wheel and tire setup but with a more premium interior than the Trail Boss’ rugged cabin. Stepping up to the ZR2 model, things got even more serious.
The Colorado ZR2 comes packed full of 10.7 inches of ground clearance, the biggest tires, and the most LED lighting.
Standard equipment includes Chevy’s Flow Tie front badges, spray-on bed liner, 17-inch wheels with 33-inch midfield tires, front and rear electronic locking differentials, 3.42 rear axle, and extra body armor underneath to prevent the inevitable.
It gets Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) dampers in gold and blue as well. This time, the rear dampers are mounted outside the frame, not inside, which Chevy says is necessary for the new truck’s size and architecture.
Desert Boss, specifically the boss of the off-road desert, adds even more off-road flamboyance to the ZR2 as an extra gear pack.
It adds 17-inch Beadlock-enabled wheels, a custom bash-bar front bumper, a roof-mounted light bar, an underbody camera, and a sticker that shows everyone who the Desert Boss really is. It is not yet clear what happens when the two bosses meet in the wild. Maybe they finished lunch.
The standard for the ZR2, and available on other models, is a new tailgate storage system that provides 45 inches by 4.0 inches of lockable space for storing your favorite tools, drinks, or rock collection.
This tailgate can also lock itself in the center position, similar to what the Ford Maverick compact pickup does, to help load flat items (up to 500 pounds) like sheets of wood or drywall onto the bed.
2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2
Chevy has streamlined much of its configuration for the Colorado 2023 based on the popularity of the previous generation truck, offering this new unit exclusively as a four-door crew cab with a shorter five-foot-two-inch box.
From the basic Work Truck (WT) trim to the dust-removing ZR2 off-roader, Chevy has chosen to offer what most people want, even if it means giving some people more than they need by opting for a short cab and a long bed.
Proportionally, the new Colorado is 2.3 inches wider than the previous pickup. The new Colorado also uses a longer 3.1-inch wheelbase across all trims, and shorter front overhangs to help increase the angle of approach.
The new ZR2’s 38.3-degree approach is more of an improvement over the last truck’s 31.8-degree angle; it’s also better than the Tacoma TRD Pro’s current 35.0-degree approach.
In this segment, the Gladiators won this metric with an approach angle of 43.6 degrees. Colorado wheels now sport the full-size 6.0 x 5.5-inch Silverado 1500 bolt pattern, which opened up aluminum wheel options in 1999.
With larger hubs, and bigger brakes. The four-wheel discs in the Colorado 2023 are now an inch larger at the front and almost an inch larger at the sturdy rear axle. It grows 200 to 300 pounds heavier in a 4WD configuration, but the biggest improvement is for the ZR2 model.
The last Crew-cab ZR2 we tested had a 3.6-liter V-6 that soon disappeared and weighed 4749 pounds, but the new ZR2 goes up in trouser size to 5298 pounds, the biggest increase we’ve noticed from the given specs.
2024 Chevy Colorado Engine
It’s no surprise that today’s midsize trucks can do almost everything their half-ton forefathers could do 20 years ago, and it’s a testament to the engineering teams that they continue to deliver this capability in a smaller footprint that’s comfortable enough for daily use—even when carrying a half-ton of payload or up to 7,700 pounds of trailer.
Chevy does not offer automated trailer backing assistance like the current Ranger, but screens help with trailer hookup by presenting things like quick trailer brake gain and safety checks.
The 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2’s most notable engineering feature is its Multimatic spool-valve shocks, which provide unparalleled off-road compliance and on-road ride comfort. Even models with conventional twin-tube shocks ride and handle better than the departing Ranger and Tacoma, the Frontier, and, in particular, the all-wheel-drive Jeep Gladiator.
However, the four-cylinder turbo engine—currently available in two states of tune—237 hp/259 lb-ft or 310/430—works hard and sounds to Gonderman “like a pissed-off sewing machine.” The transmission, while reasonably responsive to throttle kick-down, lacks a selectable Sport mode and favors high gears, keeping the engine out of its powerband sweet spot.
We were also let down by various buzzes and noises, a faulty trailer brake controller in one truck, and an axle seal that broke during figure-eight testing in another. We believe these are due to early-production teething problems.
Colorado and Canyon currently offer three engine options: 2.5-liter inline-four, 3.6-liter V-6, or 2.8-liter turbodiesel inline-four. We suspect that the base four-cylinder might be downgraded, and GM could add the turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four Silverado as an option. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive will remain on the menu.
Transmission
Every Colorado is powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine, with outputs varying depending on trim level. All Colorados have an eight-speed automatic transmission. 237 horsepower is standard on WT and LT versions. The Z71, Trail Boss, and ZR2 versions feature a 310 horsepower version of the same turbo 2.7-liter engine, which produces greater power and torque than the V-6 engines used in the Jeep Gladiator, Ridgeline, and Tacoma. It’s also available as an option on the WT and LT trims.
If those figures sound familiar, it’s because they’re from Chevy’s full-size Silverado 1500. The ZR2 reached 60 mph in 7.1 seconds on our test track. The Colorado retains an independent front suspension as well as a solid rear axle with leaf springs. The ZR2, on the other hand, features large Mutlimatic DSSV dampers up front, with the rear DSSVs now positioned on the outside of the frame.
The Chevy Colorado 2024 WT and LT pickups have an open rear differential, while the Trail Boss and Z71 pickups have a limited-slip differential; only the off-road ZR2 has power-locking front and rear diffs.
The ZR2 Bison, the harshest off-road Colorado, sits on Mondo 35-inch tires, the largest in the mid-size pickup market. The Bison has improved break-over and departure angles for getting over the bumpy terrain, and it even includes hydraulic front and rear bump stops to ease the landing from jumps. That’s correct, we stated jumps.
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Performance
Traditional body-on-frame pickups, such as the Colorado, have advanced significantly in terms of driving and handling. The 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is snappy when you hit the gas pedal and produces enough low-end torque, which is useful for both city driving and towing. The transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, and the brakes are powerful enough for emergency braking while remaining easy to modulate for smooth stops.
Our test vehicle was a gentle Z71 trim. Even yet, driving in the dirt was safe and enjoyable. Buyers prepared to give up a little on-road comfort for a lot more capability off-road will love the Trail Boss and ZR2 models.
Comfort
Colorado is an incredibly comfortable pickup truck. When it’s empty, it’s not too stiff and does a good job of smoothing out road bumps. Inside, it’s also relatively calm. pickups with chunky off-road tires often transmit a lot of road noise into the cabin, but our Colorado Z71 truck was rather quiet in comparison to other midsize pickups. Wind noise from the front pillar and windscreen is extremely evident at highway speeds.
We, too, would have preferred more comfortable seating. The cushions are excessively flat and stiff for long-distance driving, and they lack enough lateral support and lumbar adjustment. The climate system’s fans are powerful, and the controls are simple to learn and use, even with gloves on.
2024 Chevy Colorado MPG
Despite its switch to an all-four-cylinder turbo/automatic gearbox powertrain selection, Colorado’s economy is not its strong suit, even though it is competitive. There is no longer a diesel option, and rear-wheel drive is only offered on work truck and LT trim levels, with EPA city/highway/combined ratings of 20/25/22 mpg.
A Chevy Colorado 2024 LT 4WD on street tires gets 19/23/21 mpg city/highway/combined, but the powerful ZR2 gets 16/16/16—a disappointing decline from last year’s 3.6-liter ZR2 (16/18/17). We consoled ourselves by observing that the V-6-only Frontier has a top speed of 18/24/21 and (with Jeep’s diesel also canceled) the V-6 Gladiator has a top speed of 17/22/19.
However, the most efficient new Ranger outperforms the Colorado City rating by 1 mpg, while the nonhybrid 2024 Tacoma outperforms the Chevy across the board by 1 mpg. When it debuts later this year, we expect Toyota’s hybrid configuration to earn between 25 and 30 combined mpg.
Real-World MPG and Fuel Economy
With 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, Colorado has the top EPA fuel economy rating for rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Colorados with four-wheel drive averaged 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the interstate, according to the EPA. These figures drop to 17 and 19 mpg for ZR2 off-road vehicles, respectively.
We’ll be able to assess its real-world mpg when we run it on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route as part of our rigorous testing procedure. Visit the EPA’s website for more information on Colorado’s fuel efficiency.
Capacity for Towing and Payload
With a maximum towing capacity of 7700 pounds, the Colorado has the largest towing capability in the mid-size truck market. While the base 237-hp engine in the WT and LT trims only manages 3500 pounds of pull, the Colorado Z71 and Trail Boss can draw up to 7700 pounds.
That outperforms any Jeep Gladiator, Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, or Toyota Tacoma. The Colorado ZR2’s towing capacity is reduced to 6000 pounds.
2024 Chevy Colorado Models
We expect the Colorado 2023 to be offered the following trim levels:
- Work Truck
- LT
- Z71 Package
- RST
- Prime
- ZR2
The Chevrolet Colorado 2024 is a midsize truck that is only offered as a four-door crew cab with a short bed (5 feet). WT (Work Truck), LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 are the trim levels available. Every Colorado is powered by a 2.7-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with two output levels.
The base Turbo (237 hp, 260 lb-ft torque) is standard on the WT and LT, while the highest-output TurboMax (310 hp, 430 lb-ft torque) is optional on the WT and LT and standard on the Trailboss, Z71, and ZR2. The only transmission option is an eight-speed automatic. The Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 are exclusively available with four-wheel drive, although the WT and LT are available with two-wheel drive as well. Continue reading for an overview of Colorado’s major standard features and choices.
WT
The Colorado’s standard feature highlights include:
- 17-inch rims
- Start with a push of a button
- steering wheel with manual tilt
- 11-inch digital gauge cluster
- Touchscreen display measuring 11.3 inches
- Smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (both with wireless connectivity)
- Audio system with six speakers
- Back-up camera with hitch guidance
All Colorados come standard with the following driver aids:
- Automatic emergency braking (warns you if a frontal collision is impending and applies the brakes if you don’t reply quickly enough)
- Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when you don’t use a turn signal and can automatically steer to keep you in your lane)
- Automatic high-beam help
Optional WT gear includes:
- WT Convenience Kit
- cruising mode
- The center console
- Defroster for the rear window
- Rear sliding window
- Tailgate Locking Remote
- II WT Convenience Package
- Tailgate upgrade (EZ-Lift and StowFlex)
- Driver’s seat with power adjustment and lumbar support
LT
The LT includes all of the WT’s equipment as well as the following:
- Tailgate Locking System
- Additional USB port on the back
- The center console at the front
- Keyless access
- Back air vents
The following packages are available for the LT:
- Package LT Convenience
- Foglights made of LEDs
- Tailgate upgrade (EZ-Lift and StowFlex)
- cruising mode
- Defroster for the rear window
- Rear sliding window
- Automatic dual-zone climate control
- Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
- II LT Convenience Package
- The TurboMax engine
- Outside heated mirrors
- Driver’s seat with power adjustment and lumbar support
- Front chairs that are heated
- Engine start-up via remote
- Rearview auto-dimming mirror
- Charging your smartphone wirelessly
- III LT Convenience Package
- 18-inch rims
- LED taillights and headlights
- Package of precautions (see below)
- Seating in synthetic leather
- The steering wheel is heated.
- The armrest in the center of the back seat
- Two front-facing USB ports
- 120-volt power outlets in the back seat and on the bed
The Trail Boss
The Trail Boss expands on the LT by adding enhancements to improve the Colorado’s off-road capability. Among the changes are:
- 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires
- 2-inch elevation
- The rear differential that locks automatically
- Transfer case with two speeds
- Flares on the fenders
- Controlling the decline of a hill
Trail Boss bundles include the following:
- Convenience bundle for Trail Boss
- Rear sliding window
- Defroster for the rear window
- cruising mode
- Convenience Package II for Trail Boss
- Driver’s seat with power adjustment and lumbar support
- Tailgate upgrade (EZ-Lift and StowFlex)
READ NEXT: The Perfect Pickup: 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 Truck Review
Z71
The Z71 loses the 2-inch lift but gains the following:
- Headlights with LEDs
- Tow hooks in red
- Outside mirrors that are heated and power-adjustable
- 120-volt power outlets in the back seat and on the bed
- Seating in synthetic leather
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Rear sliding window
- Two USB ports on the back
The Z71 has the following optional packages:
- II Convenience Package Z71
- Tailgate upgrade (EZ-Lift and StowFlex)
- Engine start-up via remote
- Driver’s seat with power adjustment and lumbar support
- Automatic dual-zone climate control
- Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
- Front chairs that are heated
- Rearview auto-dimming mirror
- Charging your smartphone wirelessly
- III Convenience Package Z71
- Package of precautions (see below)
- Seating in leather
- The armrest in the center of the back seat
- Memory settings for the driver’s seat
- Front chairs with ventilation
- The steering wheel is heated.
ZR2
The ZR2 adds various off-road characteristics for improved performance, including:
- 17-inch mud-terrain tires on 17-inch wheels
- Dampers for ultimate DSSVs
- Suspension upgrade with 3-inch lift
- Front and rear locking differentials that can be selected by the driver
- Railings with rocker panels
- The front fascia, rear bumper, and fender flares are all unique.
- Tailgate upgrade (EZ-Lift and StowFlex)
- Bedliner that is sprayed on
- Package for Advanced Trailering (see below)
- Driver’s seat with power adjustment and lumbar support
- Climate control in two zones
- Front chairs that are heated
- Engine start-up via remote
- Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
On the ZR2, the following packages are optional:
- Package ZR2 Convenience III
- Package of precautions (see below)
- Seating in leather
- The armrest in the center of the back seat
- Memory settings for the driver’s seat
- Front chairs with ventilation
- The steering wheel is heated.
- Charging your smartphone wirelessly
- Package Bison Edition
- Stamped steel front and rear bumpers with integrated recovery points and winch
- mounts from American Expedition Vehicles
- In five sites, AEV-stamped steel undercarriage skid plates
- mud-terrain tires measuring 35 inches
- AEV 17-inch wheels
- Fender flares by AEV
- DSSV dampers with multimedia jounce control
- Vertical spare tire mount on the bed with a full-size spare tire
- Package for recovery
- Come-along winch
- Off-road recovery equipment
- Plate for an auxiliary switch
Any Colorado trim level can get the following packages:
- Technology bundle
- Adaptive cruise control (keeps a driver-specified distance between Colorado and the vehicle in front of it)
- Surround-view camera system (provides a top-down view of the truck and its surroundings when parking in tight spaces)
- Rear pedestrian warning
- Security bundle
- Outside mirrors that are heated and power-adjustable
- Parking sensors at the rear
- Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert (notifies you if a vehicle enters your blind spot during a lane change or when driving in reverse)
- Blind-spot intervention (automatically redirects the vehicle back into its lane if a car is in the vehicle’s blind spot)
- Rear automatic braking (automatically applies the brakes to avoid a collision with an item behind the car)
- Trailering Package Advanced (standard on ZR2)
- Trailering kit (two-inch hitch, automatic locking rear differential, wiring harness, and connections)
- App for trailering
- Integrated brake controller (allows trailer brake adjustment from the cab)
Other prominent alternatives include:
- Differential locking
- Trailer braking system
- Sunroof
- Bose audio system with seven speakers
- Ambient lighting in the home
2024 Chevy Colorado Safety
The new 2024 Colorado has not yet been fully evaluated by the NHTSA or the IIHS, but the NHTSA has given it a four-star frontal and five-star side crash rating. We anticipate improvements over the previous model, which was built before the IIHS small-overlap crash test.
Forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane maintenance assist with lane departure warning, a following distance indicator, and IntelliBeam automated highlights are all standard Chevy Safety Assist features. The optional adaptive cruise control uses the same button as the following distance alert, which may be misleading to infrequent users of vehicles without ACC.
2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4-Door 4WD Pickup Colors
Available in the following color options:
- Exterior
- Harvest Bronze Metallic
- Sterling Gray Metallic
- Sand Dune Metallic
- Radiant Red Tintcoat
- Glacier Blue Metallic
- Nitro Yellow Metallic
- Black
- Summit White
- Interior
- Jet Black / Artemis
- Jet Black / Artemis
2024 Chevy Colorado Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
The factory warranty on Chevrolet vehicles lasts three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain is warranted for five years or 60,000 miles. This is all appropriate for the class. Chevrolet also includes the first scheduled servicing for free.
2024 Chevy Colorado Price
The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado starts at $31,095 and can reach $60,540 depending on model and extras.
While we love the high-flying ZR2 model with 10.7 inches of ground clearance, 33-inch tires, and enough LED lighting to light up a techno concert, we think the Trail Boss gives almost as much mud-flinging fun for a lot less. The Trail Boss has 32-inch all-terrain tires and fender flares to make it look rugged.
It has 1.5 inches more front suspension travel than the WT, LT, and Z71 grades, as well as an inch more rear suspension travel. It lacks the ZR2’s wonderful Multimatic spool valve dampers and locking front and rear diffs, but it does share the Z71’s rear limited-slip diff.
- WT $31,095
- LT $33,495
- Trail Boss $38,895
- Z71 $41,795
- ZR2 $48,395
- ZR2 Bison $60,540
The bill of materials for a midsize truck isn’t all that different from that of a half-ton. This reduces profit margins, which helps to explain some of the harsh, glossy plastics seen in every Colorado trim grade.
However, at a starting price of $30,695, 2024 Colorado manages to avoid appearing cheap thanks to the creative use of the screens, contrast stitching, and class-above features like a keyless start. Even the ZR2 starts at $48,295, which is a little higher than the average new vehicle purchase price and roughly $5,000 less than a Jeep Gladiator Rubicon or Mojave.
It’s faster and handles better on pavement than those Jeeps. And, for $41,055 as-tested, the Trail Boss offers a lot of off-road bang for the buck. Offering Google Built-In improved navigation and search features on all models is another big value add that, for the time being, complements basic Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This was the criterion where Colorado significantly outperformed its GMC Canyon twin, as our judging panel failed to discover enough added stuff to warrant GMC’s pricing premium.
2024 Chevy Colorado Release Date
We expect the Chevy Colorado 2023 to launch in the second half of the calendar year 2022. Debuts in the first half of the calendar year 2022 are likely. Stay tuned to learn more about Colorado and Canyon 2023, as the Chevy will debut on July 28, and GMC will follow soon.
Chevy Colorado Production
The Chevy Colorado 2023 will continue to be assembled at the GM Wentzville plant in Missouri by GM USA. GM’s Sao Jose Dos Campos plant in Brazil will produce vehicles for the South American market.
Verdict
Chevy utilized a serrated blade to shave chunks of bullshit from the previous Colorado without jeopardizing what made its mid-size truck one of the best: a well-rounded pickup with a badass off-road variant.
The Chevrolet Colorado is a great midsize pickup truck. It distinguishes out for its powerful towing capacity, simple controls, useful technology features, and enticing price. Off-road capability is also provided by trims such as the specialist ZR2. The new Colorado significantly raises the standard in the midsize truck sector.
Thank you for sticking with us, we will continue to update more information on the 2024 Chevy Colorado will be available soon, so be sure to bookmark the Chevy Models website to get the latest Chevy Colorado news and comprehensive Chevrolet news updates.
FAQs: People also ask about Chevy Colorado 2024
Q: Is there going to be a 2024 Chevy Colorado?
A: The All-New 2024 Colorado ZR2 Bison, developed in conjunction with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), leads the class in several areas, including ground clearance, breakover angle, and underbody protection.
Q: How much is the 2024 Chevy Colorado Bison?
A: The current Chevrolet Colorado has an off-road ZR2 grade for 2023, but there’s a more capable ZR2 Bison option for 2024.
Q: What is the difference between the 2024 Colorado WT and LT?
A: The LT includes all of the WT’s equipment as well as the following: Tailgate with remote locking. Additional USB port on the back. The center console in the front.
Q: What is the truck of the year in 2024?
A: The all-new Chevrolet Colorado won the coveted “Golden Calipers” as MotorTrend’s 2024 Truck of the Year, beating out a crowded competition.
Video Discovery: 2024 Chevy Colorado
In this final session, we present a video with a duration of 11:51 from the Raiti’s Rides channel. where in the title of this video “Is the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison the BEST new midsize truck to BUY?” presenting the FIRST LOOK of the ZR2 Bison is here, and AEV has stepped up its game. The Chevy ZR2 Bison has added lift, modified suspension components, off-road tires, and other features. The engine is a 2.7L turbocharged inline-4 with 310HP. Hopefully, this broadcast can give you insight and happy wonderful days!
