The Chevrolet Colorado comes with a choice of engines. The standard engine is a 2.8-liter inline-4 called the Vortec 2800. It's rated at 175 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 185 pound-feet of torque at 2800 rpm. It delivers acceptable acceleration, particularly when paired with the five-speed manual transmission. It should prove adequate for most mid-size pickup-truck duties. The manual transmission shifts smoothly, though the gate into Reverse seemed a bit reluctant at times. The four-cylinder Vortec 2800 gets an EPA-estimated 21/27 mpg City/Highway with manual transmission and 2WD.
The optional engine is an inline-5 called the Vortec 3500. A five-cylinder engine is an unusual configuration for a U.S. vehicle, but German automakers have been using them for years. If you like inline-6 engines better than V6s, then you'll like the inline-5 just fine. It's much more responsive than the four-cylinder and delivers quicker acceleration. It's also smoother. Just don't mention the number of jugs it has in a cowboy bar.
For information on new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles, Hendrick Chevrolet #100 Auto Mall Drive Cary, NC 27511, Phone 800-857-4909.
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