2005 Chevrolet Colorado LS | Review | Buying Guide
There are plenty of 2005 Colorado models to choose from—including two engines, three suspensions systems and two cargo bed lengths—giving the 2005 pickup the most diverse lineup on the market. At the top of the pack stands the LS contingent, balancing the array of base models with more refinement and ability.
LS models are offered as regular cabs, extended cabs and, solely, as crew cabs. The regular cab seats up to three and the extended cab, with its dual rear-hinged back doors, can seat up to five. The four-door crew cab seats up to six. While the crew cab has a 5-ft-long cargo box, other models a 6-ft bed.
2005 sees the introduction of an Xtreme package. It uses the ZQ8 lowered suspension, and on top of that it adds 18-inch alloy wheels and low-profile performance tires, a monochromatic appearance, a rear spoiler, a new front grille, special exterior badging and special instrument cluster graphics and interior badging.
Under the Hood
Colorados are available with rear-wheel drive or with a 4WD system that has low-range gearing but should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Traction control is optional on models with 2WD.
The standard engine under the hood of all but 4WD crew cab and 2WD crew cab with ZQ8 or Z71 suspensions is a 2.8-liter inline 4-cylinder model. It can be mated to 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, both of which get pretty good gas mileage for a pickup. The I4 is able to muster 175 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm.
The inline 5-cylinder engine that is reserved for most LS crew cabs and is offered as an option for others definitely ups the performance level. It produces 220 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 225 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm.
Available linewide this year is a Z71 off-road suspension with standard traction control and extra ground clearance. Rear-wheel drive models can also be had with Chevy's ZQ8 sport suspension with 17-inch wheels. Other Colorado use 15s.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The list of standard features with LS models all depends on what suspension package it combines with. However, most LS models have at least a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, a center console and power mirrors, windows and door locks.
Notable optional equipment includes remote keyless entry, XM Satellite Radio, running boards, heated leather seating and a rear sliding window.
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