How much horsepower does a 2010 Colorado 2.9 have?
The 2010 Chevrolet Colorado with the 2.9-liter inline-4 engine delivers 185 horsepower.
In 2010, Colorado models with the 2.9-liter engine used in most US-spec pickups produced 185 hp at 5,600 rpm and 190 lb-ft of torque at 2,600 rpm. The engine could be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, depending on trim and configuration. This figure represents peak output under laboratory testing and forms the basis for how the truck accelerates, tows light loads, and handles everyday driving.
Key engine specifications for the 2.9L inline-4 in the 2010 Colorado include the following:
- Displacement: 2.9 liters
- Horsepower: 185 hp @ 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 190 lb-ft @ 2,600 rpm
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
These numbers provide a snapshot of the engine’s capability, but real-world performance varies with payload, drivetrain setup, and overall vehicle condition.
Performance in Context
Peak horsepower is a laboratory specification that often doesn’t tell the whole story about everyday driving. On the Colorado, the 2.9L’s torque is relatively accessible at lower rpm, which helps with city driving and light towing. However, raw acceleration will also depend on factors such as curb weight, transmission choice, and gearing.
Market and year-to-year variations
For the 2010 model year, GM’s official figures for the 2.9L inline-4 are generally consistent across US-market Colorado trims. Some minor differences can occur due to emissions tuning or regional specifications, but the 185 hp figure is the widely cited standard for the 2.9L engine in the 2010 Colorado lineup.
Notes on Real-World Driving
In practical terms, drivers should expect adequate acceleration for daily use, along with modest towing capability. If you’re evaluating a used Colorado, consider the overall condition of the drivetrain, transmission health, and any payload-related wear, as these factors influence how horsepower translates to actual performance.
Summary
In short, the 2010 Colorado’s 2.9-liter inline-4 delivers 185 horsepower (190 lb-ft of torque) with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. This figure reflects peak output and serves as a baseline for acceleration and towing, with real-world performance shaped by weight, payload, and drivetrain condition.
What year to stay away from Chevy Colorado?
The Chevy Colorado years to avoid are primarily the 2004-2006 first-generation models and the 2014-2019 second-generation models due to common issues like transmission problems, engine misfires, and power steering loss. The 2015 model is often cited as the worst year due to widespread transmission and power steering failures. Other years with notable complaints include 2017 for electronics and 2018 for transmission shuddering.
This video discusses the worst Chevy Colorado years to avoid, focusing on the 2015 model's transmission and steering issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Problematic generations and years
- First Generation (2004-2006):
- 2004-2006: Early years are prone to engine misfires and worn-out valve seats.
- Second Generation (2014-2019):
- 2015: This is frequently called out as the worst year due to numerous complaints about the transmission and a high number of power steering system failures.
- 2017: Issues with the display screen freezing and phone pairing problems are frequently reported.
- 2018: Transmission shuddering and other transmission-related problems were common.
- 2014-2019: This period saw many transmission and engine issues, as well as problems with power steering and the HVAC system.
- Other years:
- 2004-2012: These years can have problems with the A/C blower motor and fuel level sensors.
You can watch this video to learn about potential problems with different generations of the Chevy Colorado: 56sTech TriumphYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Common issues by category
- Transmission: Shuddering, sluggish shifting, and premature failure were common, particularly in the 2015-2019 models.
- Engine: Misfires and worn-out valve seats were reported in the 2004-2009 and 2016 models.
- Steering: A significant number of 2015 models experienced power steering loss, which is a major safety concern.
- Electronics: The 2017 model is known for issues like freezing display screens and problems with phone pairing.
- HVAC: Malfunctioning A/C blowers were a complaint in the 2004-2010 and 2012 model years.
How many miles can a 2010 Colorado last?
With proper care, a Chevy Colorado can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. For most drivers, that translates to 15–20 years of use. Some owners even report passing the 300,000-mile mark, though reaching that milestone usually requires consistent maintenance and more cautious driving habits.
How much horsepower does a 2010 Chevy Colorado V8 have?
The Colorado's base engine is a 2.9-liter four-cylinder that makes 185 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. Slotted in the middle is a 3.7-liter five-cylinder that makes 242 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque. The top-of-the-line V8 engine makes 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.
How much horsepower does a Chevy 2.9 have?
Engines
| Years | Engine | Power |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–2012 | 2.9 L (178 cu in) LLV I4 | 185 hp (138 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| 2004–2006 | 3.5 L (214 cu in) L52 I5 | 220 hp (164 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| 2007–2008 | 3.7 L (223 cu in) LLR I5 | 242 hp (180 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| 2009–2012 | 3.7 L (223 cu in) LLR I5 | 242 hp (180 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
