Chevy Colorado: The Ultimate Blend of Power, Tech, and Capability

September 13th, 2024 by

A red 2023 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss parked off-road and angled right.

Today’s drivers want a vehicle that can take them anywhere they want to go at any time. For many, their vehicle of choice is a truck, which is where the Chevy Colorado comes in. At one point, trucks were considered for work only due to their focus on power and performance, not comfort or finesse. In recent years, however, truck manufacturers have focused as much on the interior of the truck as they traditionally have on the outside. This focus has also made them a strong contender for a wider range of drivers than ever before.

With this in mind, you can find a used Chevy Colorado for sale at McCluskey Chevrolet. As the largest Chevy dealership in our area, we are well-versed in the Colorado and all it has to offer. This means you’ll gain all the details you need regarding trim level, powertrain performance, and more to make an informed choice. If you’re unfamiliar with the Colorado, we encourage you to keep reading to find out why we think it’s a strong contender to consider when looking for a used truck; then, take a look at our inventory or make an appointment to talk with a member of our team.

Performance

When you think of power and performance, you likely think about a full-size truck, which might make you wonder how a midsize truck will meet your needs. This is just one of the many ways the Colorado will surprise you. Since the third generation debuted in 2023, all Colorados come with the same engine option, the 2.7L turbocharged in-line four. Regarding horsepower, it varies by the trim level; for instance, if you choose the WT and LT trims, you’ll have up to 237 hp, while the Z71 and Trail Boss trims deliver 310 hp. That same horsepower is found in the ZR2 trim, but it increases performance with 430 lb-ft of torque, whereas the Z71 and Trail Boss offer 390 lb-ft of torque. It’s worth noting that the numbers for the Colorado ZR2 are the same for Chevy’s full-size Silverado 1500.

You can also look for a second-generation Colorado if you want more engine choices. That generation was introduced in 2015, ending in 2022, and it offered several options, from the base 2.5L four-cylinder to a V6 to a 2.8L diesel. Our team can explore all engine options with you to ensure you find the one that meets your needs best.

On the performance side of things, the Colorado can tow loads from 3,500 lbs to 7,700 lbs, depending on the trim level you choose. Even at 3,500 lbs, you’ll have enough power to tow a trailer with an ATV, a pop-up camper, or even a fishing boat. Plus, the smaller frame of the Colorado means you can navigate in tight spaces more easily than if you were driving a full-size truck.

Finally, there are five drive modes to choose from. These drive modes cover all the situations you might find yourself in, from off-roading to hauling and more. If a used Colorado ZR2 is in your sights, you’ll also have access to Baja mode, which makes driving through sandy terrain easier.

Off-Roading

The Chevy Colorado offers three off-road options. One of those options—the Trail Boss—is only found in the third generation and is considered the top-level off-roader. The other two—the Z71 and ZR2—can be found in both the second and third generations. The Z71, which would be considered the base off-roader, has been a part of the Colorado lineup since the beginning. All three give you the power to take the road less traveled. Our team can explore each of these if off-roading is on your bucket list to ensure you find the one for your needs.

A blue 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 parked atop a sand dune.

Technology

Since the start of the second generation, Chevy has put an increased focus on technology, providing drivers with the power to stay connected during the drive. That generation offers a standard seven-inch touchscreen for the base trim. Other trim levels have an eight-inch touchscreen. In addition, you’ll find that connecting to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is easy, ensuring that you and your passengers are entertained and connected during the drive.

For used models in the third generation, you’ll find that all trim levels have an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, as well as the ability to connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the choice to opt for wireless phone charging. Additionally, USB charging ports are found throughout this truck. Another available amenity, offered through a subscription service, is Google Built-In. Opting for this tool lets you sync your Google account to your Colorado for seamless use of your favorite apps, navigation, and more.

The third generation also gives you more visibility than ever before, with the availability of up to ten camera views, including the first underbody cameras with front and rear views. These camera views are perfect for trailering and off-roading, giving you the confidence you need to tackle any terrain. Beyond trailering and off-roading, you’ll also enjoy the five available parking view cameras that help you navigate into even the tightest spaces.

Last but not least, an increased focus on trailering technology makes towing easy, even if you’re new to it. You can access the technology through the available trailering app. When appropriately equipped, some of the perks you will enjoy through the trailering app include trailer maintenance reminders, electrical diagnostics, security alerts, and more.

Capabilities

Since the brand was founded, Chevrolet has been at the forefront of functionality, ensuring that the vehicles they manufacture not only make driving fun but also easier. For instance, the third generation of the Colorado has an available StowFlex tailgate. This tailgate is perfect for drivers on the go. Some of the amenities of the tailgate include a lockable storage compartment that also works as a cooler.

Along with that, you’ll find eight standard, fixed tie-downs—with the ability to add nine more—as well as available touch-enabled in-bed lighting, three-tier loading, an available 120V outlet, and an available reconfigurable bed rail system, to name a few. Inside, along with the large touchscreen mentioned above, you’ll also gain access to real-time information and diagnostics, thanks to the driver information center that’s placed right above the steering wheel.

A red 2023 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss driving off-road.

Check Out Our Used Colorado Inventory Today

As you can see, the Chevy Colorado offers a number of benefits for today’s drivers, whether you choose a used option from the second or third generation. You can get a closer look at our inventory online or in person at McCluskey Chevrolet. Either way, our team is ready and willing to answer any questions you have to make sure you find the right used truck for you.

If you’ve not worked with our team before, you’ll find that we offer guaranteed financing, a state-of-the-art service center to keep your Colorado in tip-top shape, and a welcoming customer lounge that offers amenities to make shopping more enjoyable. If you’re ready to upgrade your current ride or add another to your garage, check out what the Chevy Colorado has to offer. We think you’ll agree that it’s a strong contender, meeting a wide range of driving needs.