What engine is a Chevy Colorado?
The Chevy Colorado uses several engine options depending on model year and trim. Today, most buyers encounter a 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine, a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine, and a 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel in many configurations. Earlier generations offered different gasoline options. This article breaks down the current lineup and how engine choices have evolved, so you can tell which powerplant sits under the hood of a given Colorado.
Current engine lineup (2015–present)
The modern Colorado’s engine options revolve around a balance of everyday usability, power, and towing capability. Here are the core choices you’ll typically see in recent models:
Gasoline engines
- 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine — about 200 hp and 191 lb-ft of torque
- 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine — about 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque
Gasoline options are designed for daily driving, lighter towing, and a broad range of use cases from city commuting to off-road adventures, with transmission choices that vary by trim.
Diesel engine
- 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-four — about 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque
The Duramax diesel emphasizes high low-end torque for towing and work-truck capability, especially in configurations aimed at heavier loads or extended range.
Earlier Colorado engines
Earlier-generation Colorado models offered a different mix of gasoline engines and, in some years, a diesel option as well. Availability varied by year, market, and trim level. If you’re shopping a used Colorado, verify the exact engine by checking the VIN or window sticker for that specific vehicle.
How to verify engine specs for a specific Colorado
To confirm which engine is in a particular Colorado, use these steps:
- Check the vehicle’s VIN and run it through Chevrolet’s official decoder or a trusted automotive database.
- Inspect the Monroney window sticker on a new or certified pre-owned vehicle for the exact engine specification.
- Review the owner’s manual or service records for engine details and options installed by the factory.
Accurate engine identification matters for towing capacity, fuel economy, maintenance intervals, and resale value.
Summary
The Chevy Colorado’s engine lineup has evolved from early gasoline options to a modern mix of a 2.5L I4, a 3.6L V6, and a 2.8L Duramax diesel in many configurations. Always verify the exact engine for a given model year, trim, and market before purchase to ensure it matches your needs for towing, efficiency, and performance.
What is the best Chevy Colorado engine?
The 2.7L turbocharged engine delivers impressive power and acceleration, making it suitable for those seeking a more spirited driving experience. It offers excellent towing capability, enabling this truck for sale near you to haul heavy loads with confidence and ease.
What engines come in the Chevy Colorado?
Every Colorado has Chevrolet's 2.7-liter TurboMax inline four-cylinder engine. A version of this engine made its debut in 2019 as an economical option for the Silverado 1500 truck. Chevrolet tweaked this engine in 2022 for higher output and called it the TurboMax.
Are all Chevy Colorado 4 cylinders?
Every Colorado is powered by Chevy's turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder, which makes 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Do the Silverado and Colorado have the same engine?
The Chevy TurboMax engine comes standard on both the Silverado 1500 and Colorado, generating 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Motorists looking for more output or selections will prefer the Silverado, though. The full-size pickup offers three other powertrains in addition to the TurboMax: 5.3-liter V-8.
