2016
Chevrolet Colorado
The 2016 Chevrolet
Colorado pickup will be launched this fall in the US and will be available in
both 2WD and 4WD drivetrain layouts and LT and Z71 Crew Cab models. Prior to
the market launch, the company has announced that the 2016 Colorado Duramax
turbo-diesel will be the most fuel efficient pickup in US when launched, with
an EPA-estimated 31 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined ratings. This figure beats
the current best of 29 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined ratings of the Ram 1500
EcoDiesel HFE. The 4WD model returns a figure of 29 mpg on the highway.
The Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) has also issued a Certificate of Conformity for the
Colorado Duramax diesel, in which it states that it has no issues or concerns
regarding the vehicle’s emission control system. This acknowledgement by the
EPA will give credence to the figures and also assure customers that there is
no foul play in the pickup’s diesel engine.
The 2WD model with its
21-gallon fuel tank gives an impressive range of 651 miles. The Colorado
Duramax diesel has maximum trailer towing rating of 3,492 kg for
the 2WD model; this figure reduces to 3,447 kg for the AWD model.
This towing capacity is possible due to the 2.8-liter four cylinder
turbo-diesel engine that pumps out 181 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
The diesel motor is mated to a Hydra-Matic 6L50 6-speed automatic transmission.
Features such as smart
diesel exhaust braking and integrated trailer brake controller have also been
added to boost control. The former enhances vehicle control and reduces brake
wear by reducing the need for breaking on deceleration, while the latter works
with ABS to provide immediate and measured brake force.
