How much horsepower does a 3.5 Colorado have?
The short answer is that the classic Chevrolet Colorado with a 3.5-liter inline-5 typicaly produced about 220 horsepower. In today’s lineup, Chevrolet’s Colorado does not offer a 3.5-liter engine; the current generation relies on a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-4 with around 310 horsepower.
Historical note: the 3.5L inline-5 in the Colorado (2004–2012)
During the Colorado’s first generation, the 3.5-liter inline-5 engine was the standard petrol option for certain trims. It delivered horsepower in the low 200s, with torque in the mid-200s pound-feet. This section provides the most commonly cited figures from the era to give readers a clear sense of what this engine produced on the road.
Key figures for the 3.5L I5 engine used in the Colorado (typical configuration across most model years):
- Horsepower: 220 hp
- Torque: 225 lb-ft
- Displacement: 3.5 L
These numbers reflect the standard configuration widely offered in the Colorado’s production years and are the best general reference for the 3.5L engine’s performance.
Current Colorado engine options (as of the latest generation)
For the contemporary Colorado, GM shifted away from the 3.5L inline-5. The latest models use a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-4 as the primary gasoline option, a setup that emphasizes higher output and modern efficiency.
Current engine outputs for the Colorado’s gas option are summarized here to contrast with the older 3.5L figure:
- Horsepower: 310 hp
- Torque: 430 lb-ft
- Engine family: 2.7L turbocharged inline-4
In practice, these specs represent the modern drivetrain’s performance in the Colorado lineup, which superseded the older 3.5L option in the market.
Why horsepower matters for the Colorado
horsepower impacts acceleration, towing capabilities, and overall drivability. The older 3.5L engine offered brisk enough performance for a mid-size pickup of its era, while the newer 2.7L turbo provides stronger torque and improved efficiency, reflecting shifts in engine technology and consumer demand.
Summary
In summary, the 3.5 Colorado (3.5L inline-5) typically produced about 220 horsepower. The current Colorado does not offer a 3.5L engine; it relies on a 2.7L turbocharged inline-4 that delivers around 310 horsepower. If you are evaluating a used model, verify the exact engine spec for your year and trim, as configurations can vary.
