What year did the Chevy Colorado come out?

The Chevy Colorado first appeared as a 2004 model-year pickup, marking Chevrolet’s entry into the modern midsize truck segment.

To understand the Colorado’s timeline, it helps to note that the model has gone through two generations: the original 2004–2012 version and a second generation that began with the 2015 model year. This article outlines when the truck debuted, how it evolved, and where it stands today in Chevrolet’s lineup.

First generation (2004–2012)

The initial Colorado established Chevrolet’s midsize-truck presence by offering practical configurations and a balance of capability and everyday drivability.

Notable milestones and features of the first generation include:

• Introduction as Chevrolet’s replacement for the S-10 compact pickup


• Multiple cab configurations (Regular, Extended, and Crew cab) to suit different needs


• Gasoline engine options with a V6 upgrade path and common 4x4 availability

In its first run, the Colorado positioned Chevrolet as a competitor in the growing midsize-pickup segment, emphasizing versatility for work, recreation, and daily driving.

Second generation (2015–present)

The second-generation Colorado represented a major redesign, sharing development with the GMC Canyon and bringing modern styling, improved tech, and stronger capability.

Highlights of the second-generation Colorado include:

• All-new body and chassis with a more contemporary interior


• Introduction of a Duramax 2.8L diesel option in higher trims


• Availability of Crew Cab and Extended Cab configurations, with improved towing and payload


• Expanded infotainment, connectivity, and driver-assistance features

Since its 2015 model-year debut, the Colorado has remained Chevrolet’s midsize-truck offering, competing in a market with rivals like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma.

What this means today

As of the mid-2020s, the Chevy Colorado is in its second generation and remains in production, continuing to receive updates aligned with market demand, technology advances, and emissions regulations.

Summary

The Chevrolet Colorado first came out for the 2004 model year. After a gap, a second generation arrived for the 2015 model year, and the model has remained active in Chevrolet’s lineup through recent years.

What year is Chevy Colorado best?

The best Chevy Colorado depends on your needs, but for a modern and reliable option, the 2023 or newer models are strong contenders due to a complete redesign, improved powertrains, and updated features. For off-roading, the 2017 ZR2 is a great choice for its specialized suspension, while the 2019 and 2020 models are praised for balancing features like towing capacity, technology, and reliability.
 
Best for modern features and redesign 

• 2023 and newer: These are part of the third generation, which features a complete redesign with a more upscale interior, updated styling, and new powertrains. The 2024 model won "Truck of the Year" from Edmunds and the Hispanic Motor Press. 

Best for off-roading 

• 2017 and newer ZR2: The ZR2 trim debuted in 2017 and is the peak off-road option for the Colorado, with a wider track, a suspension lift, and special Multimatic DSSV dampers. 

Best for a balance of features and reliability 

• 2019 and 2020: These models are praised for a good balance of features and reliability.
  • The 2019 model is noted for having addressed some earlier transmission issues and offering features like heated mirrors.
  • The 2020 model offers good storage and technology options, including a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. 

Best for older, more affordable models 

• 2007-2012: These first-generation models are considered robust workhorses once initial issues were sorted out. 
• 2015-2016: These models are also considered fine and can be a more affordable option in the used market, especially if you're looking for features from the second generation redesign but at a lower price point. 

How to choose

• For the most modern technology: Go with a 2023 or newer model. 
• For serious off-roading: Look for a 2017 or newer ZR2 model. 
• For a good balance of features and reliability from a previous generation: Consider 2019 or 2020 models. 
• For budget-friendly options: Explore the 2015-2016 or 2007-2012 model years. 

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. 

Why did Chevy stop making the Colorado?

There are no Chevy Colorados because of a stop-sale order issued in February 2024 due to a software issue affecting the automatic emergency braking system. This problem caused the system to activate unexpectedly, leading to accidents. Additionally, production has been impacted by other factors like a UAW strike, which caused a delay in the start of 2025 production. 
Reasons for the stop-sale order and production delay

• Software glitch: A software issue with the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system was discovered, causing it to engage without a valid reason. 
• Safety concern: This glitch led to accidents, prompting GM to issue the stop-sale order to prevent further incidents and ensure customer safety. 
• Production delays: The stop-sale order impacted nearly 15,000 units and a longer UAW strike further disrupted the production schedule. 
• Fix identified: A fix for the software issue has been developed, and GM is working to implement it and resume production and sales. 

What year did Chevy Colorado change body style?

The Chevy Colorado last had a major body style change for the 2015 model year, when it was redesigned for its second generation. This redesign featured a completely new exterior, with styling that was inspired by the larger Silverado.
 

• 2015: The all-new, second-generation Colorado debuted with a completely redesigned body style, new powertrains, and upgraded technology. 
• Pre-2015: The first generation Colorado was produced for the 2004-2012 model years, with a hiatus from 2013-2014. 
• Post-2015: Minor updates and facelifts occurred during the 2015-2022 second generation, but the primary body style remained the same.