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What kind of engine is in the 2008 Chevy Colorado LS?

The 2008 Chevy Colorado LS is equipped with a 2.9-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. This engine is a Vortec 2900 model, which was the base engine option for the Colorado during the 2008 model year.


Engine Details


The Vortec 2900 engine in the 2008 Chevy Colorado LS has the following key specifications:



  • Displacement: 2.9 liters (177 cubic inches)

  • Cylinder configuration: Inline 4-cylinder

  • Valvetrain: Overhead valve (OHV) with 2 valves per cylinder

  • Aspiration: Naturally aspirated

  • Horsepower: 185 hp @ 5,600 rpm

  • Torque: 190 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic


This engine was designed to provide a balance of power and efficiency for the Colorado, which was marketed as a mid-size pickup truck. The Vortec 2900 was the base engine, with optional upgrades to a 3.7-liter inline 5-cylinder or a 5.3-liter V8 engine available for the Colorado LS and other trim levels.


Fuel Economy and Emissions


The 2008 Chevy Colorado LS with the Vortec 2900 engine had an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission, or 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway with the automatic transmission. Emissions ratings for this engine met the applicable standards at the time.


Overall, the Vortec 2900 engine provided a solid, reliable powertrain option for the 2008 Chevy Colorado LS, delivering a good balance of power, efficiency, and capability for a mid-size pickup truck.

Is the 2008 Chevy Colorado 5 cylinder any good?


The 2008 Chevrolet Colorado's inline four- and five-cylinder engines are reasonably smooth, though acceleration and hauling performance is lackluster compared to the larger V6s of its competitors. The four-speed automatic transmission doesn't offer as many gears as its rivals, but its shifts are smooth and well-timed.



What engine does a 2008 Colorado have?


The first is a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine delivering peak power of 120kW and 360Nm at 1800rpm. From more familiar territory, the 3.6 litre Alloytec V6 petrol engine also features in the range alongside a smaller 2.4 litre four-cylinder petrol engine.



Which Chevy Colorado engine is the best?


The 2.7-liter turbo engine is the best thing about the Colorado. It's quiet, smooth, powerful, and nicely matched with the eight-speed automatic transmission.



What year is the best Chevy Colorado to buy?


Top 3 Chevy Colorado Years to Buy (and one to Avoid)

  • 2009 Chevrolet Colorado. The 2009 Chevrolet Colorado marked a significant milestone in the model's history, introducing several key improvements that still make it practical in 2024.
  • 2023 Chevrolet Colorado.
  • 2020 Chevrolet Colorado.
  • 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show.



Are 2008 Chevy Colorados reliable?


Among the 1054 owners who provided feedback on the 2008 Chevrolet Colorado for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 88% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and styling to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.



What's the difference between a Vortec motor and a regular motor?


A Vortec engine places a significant portion of its wiring harness on top of the intake manifold. The manifold supports the exposed harness while the engine cover hides the wires from direct view and exposure. In comparison, the LS engine conceals its wiring harness with other parts.



What does LS stand for Chevy Colorado?


Luxury Sport
But how do they differ for Griffin drivers? In the beginning, LS stood for “Luxury Sport,” but now it's often the name of the base Chevy trim level, which also means it's the most affordable.



What is the difference between LS and LTZ Colorado?


The LS and LT are basic trims, LSX and Z71 are designed with a focus on off-roading, LTZ and LTZ+ are designed with a focus on luxury. LT is only available as a RWD, LSX, LTZ+ and Z71 are only available as 4WD.



How many miles will a 2008 Colorado last?


On average, a Colorado will last 200,000-300,000 miles, providing an extended ownership experience for those who love the unique, classy design. For those who put time and effort into their driving and the well-being of the machine, the Colorado could provide two decades of driving.



Is the 3.5 Vortec a good engine?


The Vortec 3500 I5 (and its sister engines) have proven to be fairly reliable and trouble-free — with one exception. The factory valve seats in some 2004 to 2006 SUVs with the 2800 or 3500 engines apparently were not up to the normal hardness standards and may experience a premature wear problem.


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.