For the 2025 model year, Chevrolet is refining its popular mid-size pickup, the Colorado, by dropping its base engine and streamlining the lineup to offer one robust powertrain across all trims. Chevrolet is eliminating the 237-hp 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a move that ensures every Colorado will now come equipped with the high-performing 310-hp TurboMax engine. This upgrade means even the entry-level Colorado will pack a punch, offering 430 pound-feet of torque, creating a powerful, well-rounded driving experience.

One Engine to Rule Them All

The decision to make the TurboMax engine standard across the 2025 Colorado lineup eliminates the need to decide between different power levels. This engine choice is a significant upgrade for all buyers, with benefits like:

• 310 horsepower: This brings strong acceleration and a thrilling driving experience for everyday use and off-road adventures.
• 430 pound-feet of torque: Enhancing towing capacity and overall performance, especially on tougher terrains.
• Max towing capacity of 7,700 pounds: The Colorado remains competitive in its class, providing the ability to haul trailers, boats, and other heavy loads with ease.

The powerplant, a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four, isn't entirely new—it was previously the top option in the 2023 model. However, by making it standard, Chevrolet is eliminating the weaker version and ensuring all drivers have access to its full potential. The turbocharged engine includes direct oil squirters for piston cooling and a robust rotating assembly, boosting both durability and performance.

Performance and Capability

While the Colorado was already a competent mid-size truck, its new engine arrangement pushes it even further into the spotlight. Chevrolet’s move aligns the Colorado more closely with its GMC counterpart, the Canyon, which already limited buyers to a single engine choice. By simplifying the options, Chevrolet lets buyers focus on customizing their truck’s off-road capabilities, features, and appearance without worrying about power output.

The TurboMax engine also provides some impressive performance specs:

• 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds: When tested in the rugged ZR2 trim, this acceleration brings a level of sportiness not always expected from a truck.
• Off-road prowess: With trims like the ZR2 Bison, the Colorado’s off-road performance is top-tier. Even the base Colorado benefits from the engine’s increased torque, providing excellent capability on rocky trails or steep climbs.

The TurboMax engine enhances the Colorado's performance without adding much weight or complexity. Whether you're taking a drive through the city or tackling an off-road trail, this pickup now has the grunt to handle it all.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

One potential concern for buyers could be fuel economy, especially with the more powerful TurboMax engine. While the lower-output 2.7-liter engine could achieve up to 25 mpg on the highway, the 310-hp version is likely to see slightly lower fuel efficiency, depending on tire choice and driving conditions. For example, the Goodyear Wrangler tires on the ZR2 trim reduce mixed-use fuel economy to around 16 mpg, though less aggressive tire choices should improve those figures.

Still, the fuel mileage gap between the old base engine and the TurboMax isn’t substantial. Chevrolet has optimized the engine’s efficiency where possible, ensuring that the performance boost doesn’t come with a dramatic fuel penalty. Buyers can expect fuel economy ratings that, while slightly lower than the outgoing base model, remain competitive for the mid-size truck segment.

Features and Technology

The 2025 Colorado retains its streamlined design, offering one cab and one bed size, as well as a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. This simplicity works in its favor, allowing buyers to focus on what really matters: choosing the right level of off-road gear and equipment.

The ZR2 trim remains the crown jewel of the Colorado lineup, offering:

• Advanced off-road suspension: With features like Multimatic DSSV dampers, the ZR2 is built for rugged terrain.
• Skid plates and locking differentials: Making it perfect for extreme off-road environments.
• Exclusive styling: The ZR2 stands out with aggressive styling cues, making a statement both on and off the road.

Even the base Colorado benefits from modern tech features, including Chevrolet’s updated infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance features to improve safety.

The Competition

The mid-size truck segment is heating up, and the 2025 Colorado now competes directly with other high-performance pickups, particularly the Toyota Tacoma. With over 100 pound-feet more torque and 10 percent more power than the Tacoma’s 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Colorado holds a clear advantage in terms of raw power and towing capability.

Chevrolet’s decision to simplify its engine lineup could also prove to be a winning strategy, appealing to buyers who want a powerful truck without the hassle of choosing between multiple engine options. By making the TurboMax engine standard, Chevrolet ensures that every Colorado delivers a premium experience, whether used for work, play, or daily driving.

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado is shaping up to be one of the most versatile and powerful mid-size trucks on the market. With the TurboMax engine now standard, drivers get access to 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque across all trims, making the Colorado more capable than ever. Whether you need a reliable daily driver, an off-road beast, or a towing workhorse, the 2025 Colorado has you covered.

Pricing details are yet to be released, but assuming the bump in power doesn’t come with a significant price hike, the 2025 Colorado represents excellent value. With the streamlined engine lineup, all buyers now get access to the best Chevrolet has to offer in its mid-size pickup segment.