2006 Chevrolet Colorado: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chevrolet's compact pickup shares a basic design with the GMC Canyon and Isuzu i-280/i-350, but differs in trim and details. Colorado's regular- and extended cab body styles come in Work, LS, and LT trim. Crew Cabs are LT only. A 175-hp 4-cyl engine is standard; a 220-hp inline 5-cyl is optional. Regulars and extendeds use manual or automatic transmissions. Crew Cabs are automatic only. Colorados are available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that includes low-range gearing but should not be left engaged on dry pavement. A three-person front bench seat is standard. Bucket seats are optional. Extended cabs have rear-hinged back doors and seat up to five with two rear jump seats. Crew Cabs have four conventional doors and seat up to six with a split folding rear bench. Regulars and extendeds have a 6-ft bed; Crew Cabs a 5-ft bed. ABS is standard. Curtain side airbags covering all seating rows are optional. Traction control is available with 2WD, as is a sport suspension. Offered on all is an off-road suspension. New for '06 is a Sun and Sound Package, which includes a sunroof. Other options include OnStar assistance, heated bucket front seats, 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 Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks include Dodge Dakota and Honda Ridgeline.

New or significantly redesigned models include Isuzu i-280/i-350 and Mitsubishi Raider.