2017 Chevrolet Colorado: A Capable and Versatile Mid-Size Pickup
The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado is a strong contender in the mid-size pickup truck segment, offering a compelling blend of capability, comfort, and modern technology. It caters to a wide range of buyers, from those needing a dependable workhorse to individuals seeking a capable vehicle for outdoor adventures.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The Colorado offers three distinct engine choices to suit various needs and preferences:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: This is the standard engine, providing adequate power for everyday driving and lighter-duty tasks. It prioritizes fuel efficiency.
- 3.6L V6: A significant upgrade, this engine delivers robust performance, making it ideal for towing and hauling heavier loads. It offers a smoother and more powerful driving experience.
- 2.8L Duramax® Turbodiesel: This is the standout engine, offering exceptional torque for impressive towing and hauling capabilities, along with superior fuel economy. It's the go-to for serious work or towing applications.
- Safety Features: Chevrolet equipped the 2017 Colorado with a suite of advanced safety features designed to enhance driver awareness and occupant protection:
- Forward Collision Alert: Uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and alerts the driver with audible and visual warnings.
- Lane Departure Warning: Monitors your lane position and alerts you if you begin to drift out of your lane without signaling.
- Rear Vision Camera: Provides a view of the area behind the vehicle when in reverse, aiding in parking and avoiding obstacles.
- Available StabiliTrak® Stability Control System with Traction Control: Helps maintain control of the vehicle in challenging driving conditions, reducing the risk of skidding or rollovers.
- Trim Levels: The 2017 Colorado was available in several well-defined trims, each offering a progressively enhanced set of features:
- Base (WT - Work Truck): Focused on functionality and essential work capabilities.
- LT: Offers a good balance of comfort and convenience features for everyday use.
- Z71: Designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring enhanced suspension, all-terrain tires, and other rugged upgrades.
- Z85: (Often paired with specific engine/cab configurations) Focused on street-oriented ride and handling.
- Notable Aspects:
- Excellent Diesel Engine: The Duramax diesel option is a significant differentiator, providing class-leading torque and fuel efficiency, making it a standout choice for towing and long-distance driving.
- Comfortable Ride: For a pickup truck, the Colorado offers a surprisingly refined and comfortable ride, especially when compared to some of its more rugged competitors.
- Modern Infotainment: Higher trims come equipped with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, offering touchscreen functionality, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on select models), and available navigation.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Chevrolet Colorado typically involves a straightforward and reliable ownership experience. For maintenance, expect standard oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements at recommended intervals. The Duramax diesel engine may have specific maintenance requirements, such as diesel particulate filter regeneration checks, but generally, routine service is comparable to other vehicles in its class. Insurance costs for the Colorado will vary depending on your location, driving record, chosen trim level, and engine option, with the diesel often incurring slightly higher premiums due to its specialized nature and performance.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Colorado is a strong offering, potential buyers should be aware of a few points:
- Interior Space: While adequate for most, the rear seating in the crew cab can feel a bit snug for adult passengers on longer journeys, especially compared to some larger full-size trucks.
- Base Engine Power: The standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, while fuel-efficient, may feel underpowered for those frequently towing or hauling substantial loads.
- Road Noise: While generally comfortable, some road and wind noise can permeate the cabin, particularly at highway speeds, which is common in the pickup truck segment.
- Infotainment Lag: On some earlier models or specific software versions, the MyLink infotainment system could occasionally exhibit minor lag or unresponsiveness.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado is a well-rounded mid-size pickup truck that excels in offering a versatile package. Its available Duramax diesel engine is a significant draw for those prioritizing towing prowess and fuel economy. Combined with a comfortable ride, a range of modern features, and a strong emphasis on safety, the Colorado stands out as a capable and practical choice for a variety of needs, making it a commendable option in its segment.
