2016 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon gain 2.8-litre Duramax diesel
General Motors adds a 2.8-litre Duramax turbo diesel to the Colorado and Canyon line-up for 2016, offering new towing capacity and efficiency for mid-size pickup buyers.
General Motors has introduced a 2.8-litre Duramax turbo diesel engine for the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon in the 2016 model year, expanding the options for buyers of these mid-size pickups in North America. This marks a significant update, as diesel engines are not commonly found in this segment, giving both models a distinct advantage for 2016.
Overview of 2016 Updates
Details of the 2.8-litre Duramax Diesel
The new 2.8-litre Duramax turbo diesel engine is rated at 181hp at 3,400rpm, with peak torque of 500Nm (369lb-ft) delivered at 2,000rpm. This engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a powertrain designed to balance performance with efficiency. The diesel is available on the LT and Z71 Crew Cab versions of the Chevrolet Colorado, as well as the SLE and SLT Crew Cab variants of the GMC Canyon. Buyers can choose either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations.
The Duramax engine features a common-rail direct injection fuel system, forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, an aluminium double overhead camshaft cylinder head, and an iron cylinder block. Notably, this engine is compatible with B20 biodiesel blends, appealing to those interested in lower emissions or alternative fuel options. This compatibility may attract environmentally conscious buyers or fleet operators looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Towing and Capability
With the addition of the Duramax diesel, both the Colorado and Canyon now offer impressive towing capacities. The maximum towing capacity is 3,492kg for 2WD models and 3,447kg for 4WD variants. This positions the trucks as strong contenders for buyers who require their vehicle for heavy-duty tasks, such as towing trailers, boats, or work equipment. The diesel engine is aimed at those who need robust performance without moving up to a full-size truck.
Market Position and Competitors
The introduction of the Duramax diesel gives Chevrolet and GMC a unique offering in the North American mid-size pickup segment for 2016. Diesel engines are rare in this class, and neither the Ford Ranger nor the Toyota Tacoma offered a diesel option in North America at the time. This segment-exclusive engine is likely to broaden the appeal of the Colorado and Canyon, especially among buyers who prioritise towing capacity or fuel economy over outright performance or luxury features.
For those comparing options, the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma remain key competitors, but both rely on petrol engines in this market. The Duramax diesel sets the Colorado and Canyon apart for buyers looking for a mid-size pickup with diesel power. For further details on a key competitor, see the coverage of the 2016 Ford Ranger's updates.
Availability and Models
The new Duramax diesel is offered on the LT and Z71 Crew Cab models of the Chevrolet Colorado and the SLE and SLT Crew Cab variants of the GMC Canyon. Both 2WD and 4WD configurations are available. The diesel engine became available from autumn 2015, expanding the line-up for buyers looking for more choice in powertrains and capability.
Summary
With the introduction of the 2.8-litre Duramax turbo diesel, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon stand out in the mid-size pickup market. The diesel engine provides a blend of towing capability, fuel efficiency, and alternative fuel compatibility that is unmatched by competitors in the segment for this model year. These updates are likely to appeal to a broader range of buyers and strengthen GM's position in the competitive mid-size truck market.
