2005 Chevrolet Colorado | Review | Buying Guide
The Colorado enters its sophomore season with the same momentum with which it left 2004. That is, it proudly struts through the compact pickup truck class with plenty of confidence. Some might even call it arrogance, but it has proven to be justified.
The reason for that is the sheer size and ability of the Colorado. Termed a midsize by Chevy, the Colorado also boasts the widest array of models in the segment. There are two engines, three available suspension systems, and plenty of different models.
At the base level, the Colorado comes as a regular cab and an extended cab. Both use a 6-ft cargo bed in the rear. The regular cab seats up to three, while extended cabs have dual rear-hinged back doors and seat up to five.
Under the Hood
The standard engine under the hood of all base models 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.
Optional is an inline 5-cylinder engine. It produces 220 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 225 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm.
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.
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
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.
Base models don’t come with as many features as LS versions, but their price is just right. Their standards include air conditioning, power steering, cloth upholstery, a front split bench seat, an AM/FM radio, a digital clock, a tachometer, a vinyl floor covering and automatic headlights.
Available options include a power sunroof, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, carpeting and number of external touch-up features.
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