The latest Chevrolet Colorado is a more streamlined version compared to its second-generation predecessor. It has eliminated the utilitarian extended cab, offering only one crew cab and one body style. When this latest generation was introduced, it featured three different outputs from its 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. However, for the 2025 model year, this has been reduced to just one engine option. Last year, Chevy discontinued the mid-range 'Turbo Plus' engine, and now the lowest-performing 2.7-liter engine has also been removed from the lineup. This leaves the most powerful four-cylinder engine as the sole choice for the 2025 Colorado.
This engine delivers 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, making it highly capable. Properly equipped, both Chevy Colorados and GMC Canyons with this engine can tow up to 7,700 pounds and carry up to 1,710 pounds in the bed. In contrast, the previous low-trim engine, which produced 237 hp and 259 pound-feet of torque, could only manage 3,500 pounds of towing and 1,490 pounds of payload. Chevy has not yet provided an official explanation for this change, but it's likely that many buyers opted for the more capable engine, which was only $1,285 more than the base engine in 2024. Additionally, this engine is the only option available for the higher-end GMC version of the truck, simplifying the manufacturing process as both trucks are built on the same assembly line.
It's probable that maximizing profit is the primary objective here. The latest Colorado is more of a substantial refresh of the old pickup rather than an entirely new model. General Motors is aiming to boost the profitability of its internal combustion vehicles to offset the lower profitability of its electric vehicles, particularly with its pickups and SUVs.
