The Chevrolet Colorado III Trail Boss 2.7 Turbo 4WD Automatic, introduced for the 2023 model year, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s mid-size pickup truck. Part of the third generation (introduced in 2023), the Colorado was redesigned to offer a more refined driving experience, enhanced technology, and increased capability. The Trail Boss trim, specifically with the 2.7-liter turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive, is positioned as an off-road focused variant, bridging the gap between work truck functionality and recreational capability. It slots above the base Work Truck (WT) and LT trims, offering more aggressive styling and enhanced off-road hardware, while remaining below the more luxurious Z71 and High Country models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Colorado |
| Generation | Colorado III Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type | Trail Boss 2.7 Turbo (310 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 235 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2000 rpm, 390.91 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | L3B |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.25 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2255 kg (4971.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2835 kg (6250.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1186 l (41.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 81.4 l (21.5 US gal | 17.91 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3493 kg (7700.75 lbs.) |
| Length | 5416 mm (213.23 in.) |
| Width | 1938 mm (76.3 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2144 mm (84.41 in.) |
| Height | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3337 mm (131.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Front overhang | 876 mm (34.49 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1201 mm (47.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 242 mm (9.53 in.) |
| Approach angle | 30.5° |
| Departure angle | 22.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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, 340 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 337 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Introduction
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss 2.7 Turbo 4WD Automatic is a mid-size pickup truck designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of everyday usability and off-road capability. Built on the GM GMT-335 platform, the third-generation Colorado represents a complete overhaul of the previous model, focusing on improved interior quality, updated technology, and a more robust powertrain. The Trail Boss trim level specifically adds a more aggressive aesthetic and functional upgrades geared towards light to moderate off-roading, making it a popular choice for those who want a truck that can handle both commuting and weekend adventures.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Trail Boss is the GM L3B 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency. The L3B is known for its surprisingly strong torque output, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 430 lb-ft of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine also incorporates Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy during cruising conditions. The engine is mated to an 8-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, which is designed for smooth shifting and efficient power delivery. The transmission is electronically controlled and features a wide gear ratio spread to optimize both acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7-liter turbo engine and 8-speed automatic transmission provide a responsive and capable driving experience. While not as quick as some of the higher-output engine options available in the Colorado lineup, the Trail Boss offers ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and timely shifts. The 4WD system offers a variety of modes, including 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO, allowing drivers to adapt to various terrain conditions. The Trail Boss’s suspension is tuned for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. The increased ride height and off-road tires contribute to improved ground clearance and traction. Compared to the base Colorado models, the Trail Boss feels more planted and confident, especially on uneven surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Trail Boss trim comes standard with a number of features designed to enhance both comfort and functionality. Standard interior features include cloth upholstery, an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert. Optional extras include a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium Bose audio system. Exterior features specific to the Trail Boss include a unique grille, blacked-out exterior trim, and off-road tires.
Chassis & Braking
The Colorado Trail Boss utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension features a rigid axle with leaf springs. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The Trail Boss is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers have praised its updated interior, improved technology, and capable powertrain. The Trail Boss trim level is often highlighted as a good value for buyers seeking a blend of off-road capability and everyday usability. Compared to other mid-size pickups in its class, such as the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Colorado offers a more modern interior and a more refined driving experience. Fuel economy is comparable to other trucks in its segment, with EPA estimates around 20 mpg combined. Reliability data is still emerging for the third-generation Colorado, but early reports suggest that the L3B engine and 8-speed transmission are proving to be durable and reliable.
Legacy
The third-generation Chevrolet Colorado, and specifically the Trail Boss variant, represents a significant step forward for Chevrolet’s mid-size pickup truck. The L3B engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are expected to provide years of reliable service. As the third-generation Colorado matures, it is likely to become a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and technology. The Trail Boss trim, with its off-road focused features and aggressive styling, is likely to remain a desirable option for buyers seeking a truck that can handle both on-road and off-road adventures.
