The Chevrolet Colorado continues to define the midsize pickup truck category, combining cutting-edge technology, versatile performance, and refined design. Following the third generation’s complete redesign for the 2023 model year, the Colorado represents an evolutionary step forward with thoughtful enhancements and exciting new features.

Exterior Design Evolution

The Colorado builds on the bold, muscular stance established by the third-generation model while introducing subtle refinements that enhance both form and function.

Key exterior updates include:

• Redesigned front fascia with more distinctive trim-specific elements
• Enhanced LED lighting technology for improved visibility
• New wheel designs across all trim levels
• Expanded colour palette with three new exterior options
• Updated tailgate design with improved functionality

The ZR2 trim maintains its position as the off-road flagship with distinctive styling cues that signal its exceptional capability. Its raised stance, wider track, and unique front bumper design create an unmistakable presence both on and off the road.

Chevrolet introduces the new Trail Boss appearance package for LT models, bringing a more rugged look with:

• Black exterior accents
• Raised suspension
• All-terrain tires
• Exclusive Trail Boss badging

“Whether navigating urban streets or exploring backcountry trails, the Colorado striking exterior ensures you make a statement,” explains the Chevrolet design team.

Advanced Powertrain Options

Under the hood, the Colorado continues with the 2.7L turbocharged engine platform while introducing refinements for improved efficiency and performance.

The three available power outputs include:

• Standard: 2.7L Turbo with 237 horsepower and 351 Nm of torque
• Plus: 2.7L Turbo Plus with 310 horsepower and 518 Nm of torque
• High-Output: 2.7L Turbo High-Output with 325 horsepower and 583 Nm of torque (standard on ZR2)

New is an enhanced calibration for the 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smoother shifts and improved efficiency across all driving conditions. The transmission also features an optimized torque converter that enhances low-speed drivability and towing capability.

Engineers have focused on reducing powertrain noise while maintaining the satisfying engine sound that pickup owners appreciate. Additional sound insulation and revised engine mounts create a more refined driving experience.

Impressive Capability

The Colorado maintains its reputation for exceptional capability with impressive specifications:

• Maximum towing capacity of 3,493 kg (ZR2 model)
• Maximum payload of 748 kg
• 292 mm of ground clearance (ZR2 model)
• Up to 38.3 degrees of approach angle (ZR2 model)

Chevrolet enhances the Colorado capability with an improved Tow/Haul mode that optimizes transmission shift points and throttle response when pulling heavy loads. The integrated trailer brake controller gains new features, including customizable trailer profiles that can be saved in the infotainment system.

The available Chevrolet Drive Mode Selector expands to include new terrain-specific settings on equipped models:

• Tour – Optimized for everyday driving
• Sport – Enhanced throttle response and revised shift patterns
• Tow/Haul – Configured for towing and hauling heavy loads
• Off-Road – Calibrated for general off-pavement driving
• Terrain – Designed for low-speed rock crawling (ZR2 only)
• Baja – Tuned for high-speed desert running (ZR2 only)

Enhanced Interior Experience

Step inside the Colorado and discover a thoughtfully designed cabin that balances functionality with comfort. Building on the complete interior redesign from the third generation, the new model introduces several refinements:

• New interior colour combinations and material options
• Enhanced seat cushion design for improved long-distance comfort
• Additional sound insulation for a quieter cabin
• Redesigned center console with improved storage solutions
• Available heated steering wheel on more trim levels

The driver-focused cockpit features an 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen and an 8-inch digital instrument display that provides customizable information. New is an enhanced head-up display with additional off-road information on equipped models.

“The Colorado cabin provides the perfect blend of rugged durability and refined comfort,” notes the interior design team. “Every surface and control is designed with the driver’s needs in mind.”

Cutting-Edge Technology

The Colorado embraces digital innovation with an upgraded technology suite that enhances convenience, safety, and off-road capability.

Technology highlights include:

• Enhanced infotainment system with faster processing speeds
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available wireless charging pad
• Multiple camera views, including underbody cameras for off-roading
• Available 10-speaker Bose premium audio system
• Google built-in with Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play

The innovative off-road Performance Display receives an upgrade with new features that help drivers tackle challenging terrain with confidence. This system provides real-time information, including:

• Pitch and roll angles
• Transfer case status
• Compass heading
• Individual wheel slip indicators
• Differential lock status
• Terrain mode selection

“The technology suite in the Colorado is designed to be intuitive and accessible while providing the information drivers need for both everyday driving and off-road adventures,” explains the technology development team.

Comprehensive Safety Features

Safety remains a priority for the Colorado with an expanded suite of standard and available driver assistance technologies.

Standard safety features across all trims now include:

• Chevrolet Safety Assist package
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Front Pedestrian Braking
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Forward Collision Alert
• Following Distance Indicator
• IntelliBeam automatic high beams

New are additional standard safety features previously only available on higher trims:

• Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Rear Park Assist
• Safety Alert Seat

Available advanced safety options include:

• Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• HD Surround Vision camera system
• Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Pedestrian Alert

Trim Level Structure

The Colorado offers a comprehensive lineup with distinct personalities to match different driving needs:

WT – The Work-Ready Foundation

• 2.7L Turbo engine
• 17-inch steel wheels
• Cloth seating surfaces
• 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen
• Complete Chevrolet Safety Assist package

LT – The Versatile Everyday Truck

• 2.7L Turbo engine
• 17-inch aluminum wheels
• Available EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate
• Heated front seats
• Automatic climate control
• Available leather-appointed seating surfaces

Z71 – The Confident Off-Roader

• 2.7L Turbo Plus engine
• Z71 Off-Road Package with 2-speed transfer case
• Automatic locking rear differential
• Hill descent control
• All-terrain tires
• Unique Z71 badging and appearance elements

Trail Boss – The New Adventure-Ready Option

• 2.7L Turbo Plus engine
• 25 mm factory suspension lift
• Wide stance with unique 18-inch wheels
• All-terrain tires
• Distinctive Trail Boss styling elements
• Enhanced off-road capability with specialized equipment

ZR2 – The Ultimate Off-Road Flagship

• 2.7L Turbo High-Output engine
• Multimatic DSSV™ position-sensitive dampers
• 50 mm factory lift
• Electronic locking front and rear differentials
• Unique front and rear bumpers for improved clearance
• Cast iron control arms
• Rock sliders
• Skid plates

New, the ZR2 Desert Boss Package adds:

• Beadlock-capable wheels
• Special Desert Boss badging and graphics
• Underbody camera
• Off-road bumper with integrated recovery points
• Roof-mounted light bar

Practical Functionality

The new Colorado combines capability with practical functionality that enhances the ownership experience.

Notable practical features include:

• Eight standard tie-downs with an available 17-position adjustable system
• StowFlex Tailgate with integrated storage compartment
• Available 110-volt power outlet in the bed
• Side bed storage compartments on select models
• Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin (mix of Type-A and Type-C)
• Enhanced storage solutions in the cabin

The innovative multi-flex tailgate gains new functionality with improved ease of use and additional configuration options. This versatile feature transforms how owners interact with their truck bed, making loading, unloading, and accessing cargo easier than ever.

Connected Services and Ownership Experience

The Colorado enhances the ownership experience with expanded connected services:

• Remote start from smartphone app
• Vehicle status checks
• Remote door lock/unlock
• Vehicle location services
• Enhanced service scheduling features
• Available over-the-air updates for select vehicle systems

“Drivers can enjoy the convenience of over-the-air updates, keeping their Colorado tech features current without a visit to the dealership,” notes the connected services team.

What Changes for 2026?

As the midpoint refresh of the third-generation Colorado, the latest model introduces several notable updates:

• Powertrain calibration improvements for enhanced efficiency and performance
• New Trail Boss trim level positioned between LT and Z71
• Expanded standard safety feature content across all trims
• Enhanced interior materials and design elements
• Upgraded infotainment system with faster processing
• Additional sound insulation for improved cabin quietness
• Three new exterior colour options
• New wheel designs across the lineup

2026 Chevy Colorado: Impressive Capability 

The new Chevrolet Colorado builds upon the solid foundation of the third-generation platform with thoughtful enhancements that improve capability, technology, and comfort. While maintaining the fundamental character that has made the Colorado popular, the latest model introduces refinements that address customer feedback and keep this midsize pickup at the forefront of its segment.

With its diverse trim lineup, impressive capability, and advanced technology features, the Colorado continues to deliver exceptional value and versatility. Whether you’re seeking a work-ready truck, an everyday driver, or an off-road adventure vehicle, there’s a Colorado model engineered to meet your needs.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.