2005 Chevrolet Colorado: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

After its 2004 debut, Chevrolet's compact pickup is little-changed except for a new Xtreme appearance package for 2005. Colorado shares a basic design with the GMC Canyon, but differs in trim details. Regular- and extended-cab body styles offer base or uplevel LS trim, and a Crew Cab is offered with LS trim. Base models have a 175-hp 4-cyl engine. Available is a 220-hp inline 5-cyl. Both mate to a manual or automatic transmission. Colorados are available with rear-wheel drive or with 4WD that has low-range gearing but should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Traction control is optional on 2WDs. The regular cab seats up to three. Extended cabs have dual rear-hinged back doors and seat up to five. The 4-dr Crew Cab seats up to six. The Crew Cab has a 5-ft-long cargo box, other models a 6-ft bed. ABS is standard. Head-protecting curtain side airbags covering all seating rows are offered. Available linewide is a Z71 off-road suspension with extra ground clearance over the base Z85 suspension and standard traction control on 2WD models. Available for 2WDs is Chevy's ZQ8 sport suspension with 17-inch wheels vs. the other Colorados' 15s. The new Xtreme package uses the ZQ8 suspension, but adds 18-inch wheels, bodyside cladding, different front and rear styling, and special exterior graphics. A locking rear differential is available across the board. Other options include OnStar assistance, satellite radio, and leather upholstery.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Pickups offer a true-truck design in a relatively modest package. They are best suited for personal or light-duty use rather than commercial use, heavy hauling, or towing.

Our Best Buy is the Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks include the Dodge Dakota and Ford Ranger.