The Chevrolet Colorado II Crew Cab Short Box, specifically equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 308 horsepower and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s mid-size pickup truck. Produced from 2017 to 2020, this variant occupied a prominent position in the Colorado lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and comfort aimed at both recreational users and those requiring a versatile daily driver. It was part of the second generation of the Colorado (designated the Colorado II), which debuted as a more refined and capable offering compared to its predecessor, built on the GM GMT-31XX platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Colorado |
| Generation | Colorado II Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (308 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 308 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 4000 rpm (275.11 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LGZ |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.6 mm (3.37 in) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.6 l (11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1902-1925 kg (4193.19 – 4243.9 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2631 kg (5800.36 lbs) |
| Max load | 706-729 kg (1556.46 – 1607.17 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1169 l (41.28 cu. ft) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs) |
| Length | 5403 mm (212.72 in) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in) |
| Height | 1795 mm (70.67 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3258 mm (128.27 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 310 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 324 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16; 255/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 16; 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Colorado variant lies the LGZ 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The direct injection system optimizes combustion efficiency and contributes to the engine’s power output. The LGZ engine also incorporates cylinder deactivation technology, allowing it to operate on fewer cylinders during light-load conditions to improve fuel economy. This engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 8-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission provides smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 308-horsepower output and 275 lb-ft of torque delivered by the LGZ V6, coupled with the 8-speed automatic, provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base four-cylinder engine option. While not a performance-oriented truck, the V6 offered ample power for daily driving, towing, and hauling. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were well-suited for both on-road and off-road driving, providing responsive acceleration and adequate engine braking. Compared to the available diesel engine, the V6 prioritized quicker acceleration, while the diesel excelled in fuel economy and low-end torque for heavy-duty tasks. The automatic transmission, while convenient, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the available six-speed manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 automatic was offered across several Colorado trim levels, including the LT, Z71, and High Country. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and basic safety features like ABS and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as the Z71 and High Country, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various off-road packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Colorado II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for truck duties. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration balanced ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger rotors on the rear axle. The ABS system provided enhanced braking control in various conditions. The Z71 trim level often included an upgraded suspension and skid plates for improved off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Colorado II, particularly the 3.6L V6 automatic variant, was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with the V6 consuming more fuel than the diesel option but offering quicker acceleration. Reliability reports were generally positive, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Colorado offered a more spacious interior and a more comfortable ride, but the Tacoma often held an edge in resale value and perceived reliability.
Legacy
The 3.6L V6-powered Chevrolet Colorado II remains a popular choice in the used truck market. The LGZ engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with proper maintenance. The 8-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. These trucks offer a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and value, making them a practical choice for a wide range of buyers. As with any used vehicle, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the truck’s maintenance history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection to ensure its continued reliability.
