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How fast can a Chevy Colorado go?

The speed a Chevy Colorado can reach depends on the engine and drivetrain you choose, but in stock form most versions top out roughly between 110 and 125 mph, with the V6 and diesel variants typically toward the higher end. Real-world speeds vary based on tires, gearing, and speed governors.


Engine options and their estimated top speeds


Below is a snapshot of common Colorado configurations and their approximate top speeds. Actual figures can vary by model year, tires, and any speed-limiting settings.



  • 2.5L inline-4 gasoline: about 110–115 mph (177–185 km/h)

  • 3.6L V6: about 120–125 mph (193–201 km/h)

  • 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel: about 110–125 mph (177–201 km/h) depending on gearing

  • ZR2 (3.6L V6 with off‑road tuning): about 120–125 mph (193–201 km/h)


In practice, the fastest stock configurations you’ll encounter are the V6 and diesel variants, though the difference is often modest and depends on equipment like tires and transmission gearing. Modifications can alter top speed, but they come with safety and legal considerations.


What influences the Colorado’s top speed


Several factors determine how fast a Colorado can go, beyond the listed engine option:



  • Engine tuning and drivetrain gearing

  • Tire size, speed rating, and road load

  • Electronic speed limiter programmed by GM for each trim

  • Vehicle weight and aerodynamic drag (including bed contents and accessories)

  • 4WD vs 2WD configuration and any off-road equipment attached


These elements interact to set a practical top speed for each specific truck. For example, larger tires or heavier equipment can reduce the maximum speed, while a higher-performance tune and aerodynamic improvements can push it slightly higher within safe limits.


Practical considerations and safety


Top speed figures are obtained under controlled testing conditions and may not reflect everyday driving. Road conditions, weather, maintenance, and legal limits all affect what you can safely and legally achieve on public roads. Always follow local speed limits and drive responsibly.


Summary


In summary, a Chevy Colorado’s top speed in stock form typically ranges from about 110 mph for the base 2.5L engine to around 125 mph for the available V6 and diesel variants, with slight variations by model year and equipment. The exact number for any given truck depends on engine, gearing, tires, and other contributing factors. For most buyers, practical performance will be balanced against towing needs, off-road capability, and overall efficiency rather than chasing top speed alone.

Is a Chevy Colorado a V6 or V8?


Engine options are the 3.6 L LGZ V6 engine and the 2.8 L Duramax LWN turbodiesel engine. Chevrolet designed many new parts specifically for the ZR2 to improve off-road performance.



What is the top speed of a Chevy Colorado?


The top speed for a Chevy Colorado is typically electronically limited to around 98 mph, although some sources claim the 2021 model could reach 135 mph. The exact top speed varies by model year and configuration, with some newer models electronically limited to 98 mph for safety and durability reasons.
 
This video shows a POV test drive of the 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2: 1mTyDrivesYouTube · May 3, 2024
Top speed by model year

  • 2025 Colorado: Electronically limited to around 98 mph. 
  • 2023 Colorado: Electronically limited to below 100 mph. 
  • 2021 Colorado: Some sources state a top speed of 135 mph, while others note it is electronically limited to 98 mph across different trims. 

Factors affecting top speed
  • Electronic limitation: GM electronically limits the top speed of many Colorado models to 98 mph to protect the driveshafts and tires. 
  • Tire and wheel packages: The type of tires installed can influence the theoretical top speed, but the vehicle's computer will override this with a factory-set limit. 



How fast can you go in 4 high in Colorado?


Difference between 4H and 4L

ModeSpeed rangeTorque
4L0-20 mphHigh
4H0-55 mphMedium
May 7, 2025



What is Colorado's highest speed limit?


The highest speed limit in Colorado is 75 mph on certain rural interstate highways, such as sections of I-25, I-70, and I-76. While the general limit for interstate highways is 65 mph, these specific rural sections have a higher posted limit. 

  • Maximum speed: 75 mph 
  • Location: Specific stretches of rural interstates, including I-25, I-70, and I-76. 
  • Note: The speed limit is 65 mph on most other interstate highways and expressways, with exceptions for areas with steep grades or curves like parts of I-70 in the Rocky Mountains. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.