Though the “Big Three” of GM, Ford, and Ram continue to dominate the full-sized truck segment despite attempts from Toyota and Nissan to grab slices of the pie, in the midsized pickup segment, everyone is seemingly chasing the Toyota Tacoma and its cult-like following. In 2022, the “Taco” outsold the Chevy Colorado by a margin of nearly three-to-one; thanks to its reputation for reliability, agreeable price, rough-and-tumble readiness, and a long list of generous features.
But for 2023, GM is obviously no longer content to play second fiddle. The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado is the first in the third generation of the bow-tie brand’s midsize offering. GM describes it as “enhanced in every way,” this description isn’t just marketing fluff as the 2023 Colorado’s specs and updates to its performance, capability, and styling are worthy enough to cut into sales of Toyota lead in midsize pickup truck sales. Additionally, the Colorado now features more off-road ready trims, including the first-ever Trail Boss that gives the truck the prowess on the unpaved paths to challenge the likes of the Tacoma TRD.
Chevrolet Colorado
- 7,700-LB Towing Capacity
- Standard 11.3-Inch Touchscreen
- Chevy Safety Assist Package
- Mid-Position Tailgate
- Turbocharged Inline-Four
- Google Built-In
- Model: Colorado
- Engine:: 2.7-Liter Turbo Inllne-Four
- Power Output: 237-310 HP
- Torque: 259-430 LB-FT
- Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
- Driveline: 2WD/4WD
- Class-Leading Towing Capacity
- More Modern Tech And Features
- Refreshed Styling
- Pricier Than 2022 Model
- No Bed/Cab Options
- Digital Controls For Common Inputs
2023 Chevrolet Colorado Performance And Capability
The 2023 Chevy Colorado will be offered in five trims:
- Work Truck
- LT
- Trail Boss
- Z71
- ZR2
Though the lineup is mostly similar to the previous-gen Colorado, apart from the addition of the Trail Boss trim, Chevy has simplified its Mid-size pickup’s stable. That starts with its power plant. The third-gen Colorado will be powered exclusively by a turbocharged, 2.7-liter turbo inline-four engine four-cylinder engine, though three outputs are available. This powerplant has been doing duty in the Silverado since 2019. The Work Truck and LT Colorado trims will offer 237 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. Available in the Work Truck and LT trims and standard in the Z71 and Trail Boss, the 2.7-liter Turbo Plus engine produces 310 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.
Meanwhile, the top-spec ZR2 is fitted with a High-Output 2.7-liter turbo delivering 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, the same horsepower output as the Turbo Plus engine with an increase of 40 pound-feet of torque. The high-output motor’s extra torque comes via a software reflash, so models fitted with the Turbo Plus engine can have a reflash performed to unlock the added twist. All engines will pair with a Hydra-Matic 8L80 Gen II eight-speed automatic transmission and can be paired with either rear- or four-wheel drive.
As of February 20, the EPA has not released its mpg ratings for the Colorado, and Chevy has yet to announce its findings either. The Colorado’s previous base engine, a 2.5-liter, non-turbo four-cylinder returned EPA ratings of 19 city and 25 highway, though it’s perhaps too speculatory to say whether the more powerful and larger 2023 Colorado will benefit from standard turbocharging for its fuel economy.
While the base engine has a max tow rating of 3,500 pounds, max trailering can be upped to 7,770 pounds when properly equipped. The Trail Boss and Z71 models can also tow up to 7,700 pounds, which ties the Colorado with the Jeep Gladiator to lead the midsize truck market. ZR2 model's max trailering figure is 6,000 pounds. Payload capacities range from 1,151 to 1,684 pounds depending on trim. For added storage, the new Colorado also features a tailgate storage compartment that can be accessed with the tailgate lowered. It is 45 inches wide and four inches deep.
In addition to simplifying the Colorado’s engine lineup, the 2023 model will only be offered in a single crew cab configuration with a five-foot-two-inch bed. For hauling longer items, an optional tailgate stop for longer items is offered. The Colorado’s off-road abilities are vastly improved over the previous generation, particularly in Z71, Trail Boss, and ZR2 configurations, and its overall dimensions have grown. Ground clearance is 8.9 inches for the Z71, 9.5 inches for the Trail Boss with its two-inch suspension lift and wider chassis, and a notable 10.7 inches for the ZR2.
The top-tier Colorado includes a three-inch lifted suspension and upgraded Multimatic DSSV dampers. The approach angle for the ZR2 is 38.3 degrees with a departure angle of 25.1 degrees. Though the Z71 and Trail Boss can’t match those figures, they still offer the capability to tackle the trails. Selectable driving modes will include normal, tow/haul, off-road, terrain (for rock crawling with three settings), and Baja, developed for high-speed desert running with throttle control, transmission shifting, and other tuned calibrations.
Engine Type | 2.7-Liter Turbo Inline-Four |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 237-310 HP |
Torque | 259-430 LB-FT |
Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
Drive | 2WD/4WD |
Towing Capacity | 3,500-7,700 lbs |
Exterior Design
Perhaps taking some inspiration from the bigger Silverado, the 2023 Colorado appears far beefier than its predecessor. The front fascia has been notably updated with shorter overhang, benefitting approach angles, the “intakes” forward of the rear wheels are far more assertively angled, and the hood features a more chiseled appearance with two large bulges adding some aggression. In profile, the rear fenders have been bulged outward and are squared off with a strong character line just below the top of the bed. 17-inch wheels are standard with 18 inches on the Z71 and Trail Boss (which also features 32-inch diameter all-terrain tires).
Exterior Paint Colors | Price |
|---|---|
Standard | |
Summit White | $0 |
Black | $0 |
Sterling Gray Metallic | $0 |
Harvest Bronze Metallic | $0 |
Sand Dune Metallic | $0 |
Optional | |
Nitro Yellow Metallic | $395 |
Glacier Blue Metallic | $395 |
Radiant Red Tintcoat | $495 |
Length | 213 in. |
|---|---|
Width | 84.4 in. |
Height | 78.8 in. |
Wheelbase | 131.4 in. |
Ground Clearance | 7.9-10.7 in. |
Curb Weight | 4,716-6,250 lbs. |
Interior Quality And Technology
The cabin has also been revamped with the 2023 Colorado offering significantly better tech when compared to the competition. The pickup now comes standard with keyless ignition and a sizeable 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration and an 8.0-inch digital drivers display. The center console sports a new look with the shifter adjusted father right with front seat storage and USB ports. The center console also features a friction hinge that can hold it open in any position. Though the interior has been refreshed, it still sports many of the same cheaper plastics as its predecessor, though the large touchscreen, new look, and more standard safety features, including the segment’s first Google Built-In connectivity, help the Colorado's cause.
While the base model features hard-wearing cloth seats, higher trims are offered with Evotex or full-leather seats. Going somewhat against the grain for the 2023 Colorado’s more simplistic approach several common features, such as headlight controls and window locks, are operated through the touchscreen, not physical dials or knobs. Front passengers won’t be longing for additional space, though adults in the rear might be a bit cramped with 34.7 inches of rear legroom available. For those who regularly move more than a few people, a full-size truck like Chevy's own Silverado 1500 could be a better option, and that can be said for all midsized pickups.
Headroom (front) | 40.3 in. |
|---|---|
Headroom (rear) | 38.3 in. |
Legroom (front) | 45.2 in. |
Legroom (rear) | 34.7 in. |
Shoulder room (front) | 57.4 in. |
Shoulder room (rear) | 56.1 in. |
2023 Chevy Colorado Pricing And Availability
The revamped 2023 Chevy Colorado release date is expected to be soon with production upcoming and the model available in the first half of the year. Pricing for the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado starts at $30,695 for the base Work Truck while rising to $48,295 for the top-trim ZR2. Pricing for all five models is:
Trim | Price |
Work Truck | $30,695 |
LT | $33,095 |
Trail Boss | $38,495 |
Z71 | $41,395 |
ZR2 | $48,295 |
Pricing has increased across the board for the 2023 Colorado versus its predecessor, but given its added standard equipment and capability, the price hike is certainly justifiable.
Configure your 2023 Chevrolet Colorado here.
Safety
All 2023 Colorado models are fitted with forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, a Follow Distance Indicator, and automatic high beams. Blind Zone Steering Assist, rear cross-traffic automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, HD Surround Vision monitor and pear pedestrian alert are available. The 2023 Colorado has not yet been crash tested by the NHTSA.
Main Competition
With a more generous list of standard features that are still agreeable with the 2023 Colorado’s increased price, an additional all-terrain-ready trim, and brawnier looks, Chevy is now more competitive with the segment-leading Toyota Tacoma. The models are fairly close in price with the Toyota remaining slightly cheaper.
The Tacoma offers a bevy of customizable options for bed size, powertrain, and cab length, but the Colorado’s in-tailgate storage compartment, off-road kit and available options, and refreshed looks could certainly sway some buyers. One of the most notable selling points of the Tacoma is its reliability, and in that regard, the Colorado still trails the Tacoma. This new Colorado will also continue to take on other heavy hitters in the mid-size pickup truck space, including the likes of the Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, and Jeep Gladiator. However, no prior Colorado has looked as attractive, both in looks and on the spec sheet, as the 2023 model.
FAQ
Q: How much will 2023 Colorado cost?
The 2023 Chevy Colorado will cost between $30,695 for the base WT, or Work Truck, trim while the top-spec ZR2 costs $48,295.
Q: When can I order the order the 2023 Chevy Colorado?
Chevy is taking orders now for the Colorado with production commencing in the first half of 2023.
Q: Is the 2023 Colorado bigger?
The 2023 Colorado's wheelbase is 3.1 inches larger than the 2022 model.
Q: Will the 2023 Chevy Colorado have a V6 engine?
No, the 2023 Colorado is offered with three 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engines with various power and torque outputs.
Q: Is it worth buying a Chevy Colorado?
The revamped, third-generation, 2023 Colorado is now far more competitive with the Toyota Tacoma, the sales leader in the mid-sized truck segment.