Photo: Chevrolet
After eight years without significant changes, the Colorado finally gets revamped for 2023. The previous generation, which literally brought the segment back to life, had received several improvements over the years, the model had never benefited from a complete overhaul. The Ford Ranger pickup is also getting a makeover, with the addition of a longer bed on the double cab models- features that customers have been asking for.
The new Colorado, however, will now offer only one body configuration. In fact, only a double cab model with a short body will be kept in the lineup, eliminating the long body and extended cab. A rather curious strategy, but one that Chevrolet explains by the lack of demand for the other two configurations.
New Brand New Look
The Colorado has been completely redesigned with new underpinnings. It has a longer wheelbase (8 cm), but overall length remains essentially the same – varying by a few millimetres depending on the version. A total of five versions will be offered: WT, LT, Z71, Trail Boss and ZR2. A ZR2 Desert Boss launch edition is also part of the range with unique styling and model-specific equipment
Aesthetically, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado offers a more modern and muscular look than the outgoing model. Each version gets a unique aesthetic treatment, making it easy to distinguish them. Naturally, the ZR2 version is the most visually impressive, being 3 inches taller than the WT and LT versions. It’s also hard to ignore the new Trail Boss version, which offers a more adventurous look and a 2-inch suspension lift at a more attractive price than the ZR2.
Photo: Chevrolet
On top of the box, the first thing you’ll notice is that the Colorado ZR2 has a massive roll bar that really pops. Chevrolet also adds eight standard tie-down hooks, support points for 2x6s and 2x8s, as well as the possibility of positioning the tailgate halfway.
On board, Chevrolet has completely redesigned the cabin by redesigning the seats and the centre console, which integrates standard digital instrumentation with an 8-inch screen and a 11.3-inch central touch screen with Google technology. As with the Silverado pickup, this screen is configurable according to driver preferences for a more personalized user experience. Depending on the version, up to 10 camera angles are offered, making it easier to drive off-road, park or hitch a trailer.
Photo: Chevrolet
Goodbye, V6
After recently discontinuing its four-cylinder gasoline engine and Duramax diesel engine, Chevrolet is setting aside its 3.6-litre V6 engine for 2023 and replacing it with three variations of a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder. The WT and LT versions will get 237 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity set at 3,500 lbs. An optional engine producing 310 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque will be offered on these two models, but will be standard on the Z71 and Trail Boss models, bringing the towing capacity to 7,700 lbs.
The engine in the ZR2 version gets a torque increase at 430 lb-ft thanks to internal enhancements, but power remains at 310 hp. It will be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In total, up to five driving modes will be offered, including a Baja mode for high-speed off-roading on this ZR2 version.
Photo: Chevrolet
Assembled at the Wentzville, Missouri plant, this next-generation Chevrolet Colorado will be available in dealerships in the spring of 2023. The GMC Canyon will follow suit and will be introduced in a few weeks with essentially the same technologies. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
Keyword: Chevrolet Unveils New 2023 Colorado Pickup