Chevrolet unveils 2015 Colorado pickup at LA Auto Show
Chevrolet has launched the 2015 Colorado at the Los Angeles Auto Show, targeting the North American midsize pickup market with new engines, safety tech and class-leading towing.
Chevrolet has officially revealed the 2015 Colorado at the Los Angeles Auto Show, marking the brand’s return to the North American midsize pickup segment. The new Colorado is aimed squarely at buyers who want a truck with the versatility and capability of a full-size model, but in a more compact footprint.
Chevrolet is offering the Colorado in three trim levels, WT, LT and Z71, with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive. The extended cab comes with a 6-foot bed, while the crew cab can be specified with either a 5-foot or 6-foot bed. With the tailgate down, the longer bed is capable of carrying items up to eight feet in length. The company claims the Colorado delivers the highest payload and trailering capacity in its class, with a maximum towing figure of over 3,039 kg (6,700 lbs).
Engine options and technical details
The 2015 Colorado launches with two petrol engines. The base option is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 193 hp and 253 Nm of torque, while a 3.6-litre V6 offers 302 hp and 366 Nm. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Chevrolet says the four-cylinder delivers 90 percent of its peak torque between 2,000 and 6,200 rpm, targeting both everyday usability and towing demands.
All versions feature a fully boxed frame and a suspension setup designed to balance ride comfort with the load-carrying needs of pickup buyers. The Z71 trim includes off-road suspension tuning, automatic locking rear differential and unique styling elements. Chevrolet has not yet announced fuel economy figures or pricing for the new truck.
Interior features and safety technology
Inside, the Colorado offers an 8-inch colour touchscreen on LT and Z71 models, with multiple USB ports, navigation and natural language voice recognition. A 3.4-inch display sits in the instrument cluster. Standard safety equipment across the range includes six airbags, a rearview camera, StabiliTrak electronic stability control, lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Larger rearview mirrors are fitted for improved visibility.
Market positioning and rivals
With the new Colorado, Chevrolet is re-entering a segment that had seen dwindling options in North America. The company is positioning the truck as a more manoeuvrable and efficient alternative to full-size pickups, but with capability figures that challenge larger rivals. The Colorado will compete with models such as the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, both of which have dominated the midsize pickup market in recent years.
Production for the North American market is set to begin ahead of the 2015 model year. Pricing and further technical details are expected to be confirmed closer to launch.
