Overview

The midsize Chevy Colorado pickup heads into 2010 with greater efficiency and performance thanks to a new XFE model that achieves the lineup's best fuel economy and new variable valve timing for the 5.3-liter V-8 engine. In addition, head curtain side air bags are now standard on all models and three new exterior colors are offered.

• New XFE model gets 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 5.3-liter engine now features variable valve timing technology
• Head curtain side air bags are now standard on all Colorado models
• Three new exterior colors

An light-duty compact pickup truck, the 2010 Chevrolet Colorado is available in two- or four-wheel drive with a choice of three body styles. The regular and extended cab models have a six-foot cargo bed, and the extended cab version adds reverse-opening doors. The crew cab model has forward-swinging doors, a five-foot cargo area, bench seating in the front, and can accommodate six passengers.

The two trim levels are the Work Truck and the LT. the Work Truck is the "stripped" version suitable for customization for specific uses. The LT is available in three levels, gradually adding features such as a CD changer, satellite radio, remote keyless entry, and various power features.

The key options come in the three suspension packages. The Z85 suspension is standard. The Z71 is the off-road package, which includes larger wheels and skid plates, as well as a locking rear differential on four-wheel-drive models. The ZQ8 sport suspension rides lower, and has 18-inch wheels with upgraded tires.

The standard 185-hp, 2.9-liter four-cylinder engine uses regular fuel and produces 190 lb.-ft. of torque. The optional 242-hp, 3.7-liter inline-five cylinder engine (also using regular fuel) increases power to 242 lb.-ft. The top-line engine is a 300-hp, 5.3-liter V8 engine that is available only on extended cab and crew cab models. A five-speed manual transmission is standard with the four-cylinder engine, and a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. The two larger engines have the automatic transmission as standard equipment.

According to EPA estimates, the base model delivers 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the top-line four-wheel drive model with crew cab and a V8 engine offers 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. With a V8, the Colorado can tow up to three tons.

The 2010 Chevrolet Colorado starts at about $16,985.