2023 Chevrolet Colorado Unveiled with Noteworthy Upgrades
Today, the auto world was stirred by the reveal of Chevrolet's 2023 Colorado model. The brand has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and adaptation to consumer needs with enhancements in design, performance, and technology. The truck's redesigned exterior and interior, alongside an improved powertrain and plethora of customization options, promises to redefine expectations for the modern midsize pickup truck market.
Design and Customization
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado boasts a new and enhanced design both inside and out, speaking volumes about the vehicle's rugged charm and functionality. Chevrolet's designers have introduced four unique interior trim choices, highlighting both refinement and durability. The cabin’s centerpiece, an 11.3-inch-diagonal color infotainment touchscreen, is impressively large for its segment. The truck also sports an industry-first standard 8-inch-diagonal fully digital color instrument display. The company has shown considerable attention to detail with additions such as sporty round outboard vents, stylish contrast stitching in select models, and wrapped and stitched knee pads.
Performance and Capability
The heart of the 2023 Colorado is a new 2.7L Turbo engine, replacing the previous three-engine lineup. This revamped engine, borrowing from the successful Silverado model, surpasses the output of the previous model, offering 18% more horsepower and 36% more torque than the 2023 Colorado’s base engine. Additionally, the model includes a second-generation eight-speed automatic transmission that promises smoother shifting, quick downshifts, and improved low-speed mobility.
The model lineup, including the Work Truck (WT), LT, Z71, ZR2, and the first-ever Trail Boss, introduces three distinct chassis stances catering to a variety of uses from daily work needs to off-road escapades. The chassis enhancements on the 2023 Colorado provide a 3.1-inch-longer wheelbase than the current Crew Cab/short box model, contributing to a more aggressive stance and improved approach angle.
Drive Modes and Safety Technologies
The 2023 Colorado also offers up to five selectable drive modes, tailored for different driving conditions. Ranging from 'Normal' for everyday use to 'Baja' for high-speed desert running, these options ensure a fitting response to varied terrain and usage conditions.
Chevrolet has also made commendable strides in safety and driver awareness technologies. The standard Chevy Safety Assist package is impressive, including a suite of features such as Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Lane Keep Assist. Several other features, including Blind Zone Steering Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, are available across all models.
Infotainment and Connectivity
In terms of technology, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado doesn't hold back. The aforementioned 11.3-inch-diagonal infotainment screen acts as a portal to an array of innovative features, designed to enhance the driving experience. This includes customizable screens, an industry-first Google Built-In offering, an Off-Road Performance Display app, and up to 10 camera views accessible on the infotainment screen.
Furthermore, the Colorado borrows trailering technologies from the Silverado model, integrating Hitch Guidance and Hitch View to enhance the trailering experience.
Availability and Further Information
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado production is set to begin in early 2023 at General Motors' Wentzville, Missouri, assembly facility. As we approach the start of production, further details, including pricing, will be released.
Anticipation for the New Model
With the teaser of the new Colorado, anticipation is high among Chevy fans and truck enthusiasts alike. Chevrolet's reputation for building reliable, durable, and high-performing trucks contributes to the buzz surrounding this upcoming model. The combination of technological upgrades, design refresh, and performance enhancements suggest that the 2023 Colorado is likely to make a significant impact in the midsize truck segment.
Competition
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado is expected to face stiff competition from established names in the midsize pickup segment. Its competitors include the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and the recently announced electric trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Rivian R1T. However, with the Colorado's distinctive enhancements and the brand's strong following, Chevrolet is confident about its position in the market.
2023 Colorado ZR2 and ZR2 Desert Boss
The Colorado ZR2 has long been Chevrolet's flagship for off-road prowess in the midsize pickup segment, and the 2023 model aims to take this reputation to new heights. The ZR2's impressive off-road capability has been proven repeatedly, notably by Chad Hall, who since 2017 has completed every race with the Colorado ZR2. This truck also served as a testing ground for the performance enhancements found in the new 2023 Colorado ZR2, making it the go-to truck for both off-roading novices and pros.
Standard ZR2 Equipment
The 2023 Colorado ZR2 comes equipped with an array of standard features that not only enhance its off-road performance but also provide a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. Its unique Artemis interior color scheme with Strike-colored accents, ZR2 badging, and a unique rotary control trim lend the cabin a distinctive look. Comfort and convenience are taken care of with heated front seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat, and a spray-on bedliner. For off-roading, the ZR2 features a newly designed, high-clearance front fascia, complete with cut-out corners and the Chevrolet “Flow Tie.” The model is equipped with 17-inch wheels with 33-inch-diameter mud/terrain tires, segment-exclusive Multimatic DSSV dampers, special cast-iron control arms, selectable front and rear electronic locking differentials, and a modified rear axle with a 3.42 ratio. LED lighting, modified front and rear bumpers for improved approach and departure angles, and off-road obstacle clearance enhance the truck’s capability. The ZR2 also comes with an aluminum skid plate to protect the radiator and engine oil pan, a transfer case shield, and rocker panel protection.
ZR2 Desert Boss Package
Inspired by the Colorado’s successful desert-racing legacy, the first-ever special-edition ZR2 Desert Boss package takes the max-performance model’s design even further. The package includes 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, an off-road bumper and front fascia, a sports bar with a Sail Panel, a roof-mounted light bar, and an underbody camera. Unique “Desert Boss” decals and black emblems further set this model apart.
Enhanced Multimatic Dampers
The Colorado ZR2’s racing-derived Multimatic spool-valve dampers have been enhanced for the 2023 model, striking a greater balance between on-road driving comfort and robust off-road performance. Compared to conventional shim-type dampers, the unique spool-valve design offers unlimited tuning variability, resulting in more precise damping performance and a greater feeling of control whether you're on or off the road.
New Accessory Options
In addition to these features, Chevrolet is also offering exciting new accessory options for the ZR2. These include a grille light bar, removable assist step, off-road bumper lights, and an interior switch plate, each further enhancing the truck's rugged aesthetic and practical functionality.
Final Thoughts
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 and the special-edition ZR2 Desert Boss package represent Chevrolet's commitment to continuous evolution, with the brand delivering an unparalleled off-roading experience without compromising on-road comfort. The upgrades in equipment and technology, paired with the rugged aesthetics and exceptional performance enhancements, make these vehicles exciting additions to the midsize truck market. As we await further details and official pricing, the anticipation continues to build. Stay tuned for more updates on the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado as we approach its debut. The road ahead certainly looks promising.
-Ed
2023 Chevrolet Colorado
