The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado: Redefining Midsize Truck Performance

Powertrain Revolution: What's New Under the Hood

The 2017 model year marks a significant evolution for the Chevrolet Colorado's powertrain, building on its already successful formula in the competitive midsize truck segment. While retaining the fundamental architecture that made its predecessor reliable, the updated components deliver tangible improvements that discerning truck buyers will appreciate.

Advanced 3.6L V6 Engine Specifications

Chevrolet's engineers focused on intelligent enhancements rather than complete redesign for the 2017 Colorado's powerplant:

• Active Fuel Management: Seamlessly switches between 6-cylinder and 4-cylinder operation during light-load conditions, optimizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing power when needed
• Increased Output: Delivers 308 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm - improvements that are most noticeable during acceleration and towing
• Proven Architecture: Shares its basic design with Cadillac's luxury vehicles, bringing premium-level refinement to the truck segment
• DOHC 24-valve Design: Maintains the dual overhead cam configuration with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams for optimal performance across the RPM range
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The 8-Speed Transmission Advantage

Paired with the upgraded engine, the new transmission represents a significant leap forward:

Maintaining Capability While Adding Refinement

Unlike some vehicle updates that sacrifice utility for comfort, the 2017 Colorado manages to enhance both aspects simultaneously. According to Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Truck Marketing Director: "We're attracting many crossover owners who still need truck capability but want car-like comfort. This new powertrain delivers exactly that."

Unchanged Performance Metrics

Remarkably, these mechanical upgrades come without compromising the Colorado's established capabilities:

• Towing Capacity: Maintains class-leading 7,000-pound maximum when properly equipped
• Payload Rating: Unaffected by powertrain changes, remaining competitive in the segment
• Axle Ratio: Keeps the 3.42:1 final drive ratio that provides an ideal balance of acceleration and efficiency
• GVWR: No reduction in gross vehicle weight rating across all configurations
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Trim Level Overview: Finding Your Perfect Colorado

The 2017 lineup continues offering three main trim levels plus special editions that cater to different buyer needs:

Work Truck (WT) - The Value Leader

Designed for commercial users and price-conscious buyers who prioritize function over features, the WT trim includes:

• Durable vinyl or cloth seating surfaces
• 16-inch steel wheels
• Basic infotainment with Bluetooth
• Optional V6 and crew cab configurations

LT - The Mainstream Choice

Balancing comfort and value, the LT trim adds:

• Upgraded interior materials
• 17-inch aluminum wheels
• Enhanced infotainment options
• Available LT Midnight Edition with blackout styling

Z71 - The Off-Road Specialist

Engineered for adventure seekers, the Z71 package provides:

• Off-road tuned suspension
• Skid plates and recovery hooks
• All-terrain tires
• Unique interior badging
• Available Z71 Midnight Edition with dark aesthetic
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Special Edition Standouts

For 2017, Chevrolet introduced limited-run variants that add distinctive styling:

• Shoreline Edition: Nautical-themed accents perfect for coastal living
• Trail Boss: Aggressive appearance package with unique wheels and trim
• Midnight Editions: Available on both LT and Z71, featuring blacked-out grilles, wheels, and badges

Why the 2017 Colorado Stands Out in Its Class

The midsize truck segment has become increasingly competitive, but the Colorado maintains several advantages:

• Powertrain Sophistication: The combination of Active Fuel Management and 8-speed transmission was unmatched by rivals at launch
• Real-World Drivability: The revised gear ratios make daily commuting more pleasant without sacrificing work capability
• Trim Flexibility: From basic work truck to luxury-leaning LT to off-road ready Z71, the lineup covers all buyer needs
• Resale Value: Strong demand keeps depreciation rates lower than average for the segment

Looking Ahead: The Colorado's Market Position

With these thoughtful updates to an already successful formula, the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado solidified its position as a top contender in the midsize truck market. By focusing on refinement rather than radical change, Chevrolet delivered exactly what existing owners wanted while making the truck more appealing to crossover converts - a strategy that paid dividends in both critical reception and sales performance.

For buyers seeking a versatile midsize truck that doesn't compromise between work capability and everyday comfort, the 2017 Colorado represents one of the most compelling packages available. Its balanced approach to performance, efficiency, and utility continues to set the standard in its class years after its introduction.