3 Frustrating 2023 Chevy Colorado Features You Need to Know

Recently, the Chevrolet Colorado experienced a glow-up that you need to see. It got a new exterior style and revamped interior to put it back on the map. However, not every 2023 Chevy Colorado update is seen as an improvement. Three things could be dealbreakers.

2023 Chevy Colorado: What’s new?

The 2023 Chevy Colorado sports a fresh redesign to kick off its third generation. It has a modern, confident exterior style with an upgraded interior to blend comfort, refinement, and work truck durability.

It has a new 2.7-liter turbocharged engine with three different output levels. It was forged with proven materials to increase its durability and performance. Also, the engine is paired with the second-generation eight-speed automatic transmission for a smoother and faster performance.

New tech brings an advanced feel as it helps make driving feel safer and more convenient. Plus, the Colorado ZR2 model is the most capable off-roading model ever, with modes for Baja, Terrain, Off-Road, Normal, and Tow/Haul.

Now let’s see what’s frustrating drivers!

1. The 2023 Colorado doesn’t have a long bed

The 2023 Chevy Colorado may feel limited as a work truck because it doesn’t have an extended bed available. It’s only available with a four-door crew cab and a short five-foot bed. But the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier both have six-foot beds available.

Obviously, longer beds have more cargo capacity, but the Colorado does have an available lockbox built into the tailgate. It has enough space for a few tools.

The 2023 Colorado can carry a payload of up to 1,684 lbs. The 2022 model can carry up to 1,435 lbs, so it has more muscle despite having less space to work with. The Frontier can carry a payload of up to 1,360 lbs. Also, the Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs.

2. The Colorado dropped its diesel engine

The 2021 Colorado had a turbocharged 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. It was discontinued in 2022, and fans still miss it.

However, the 2023 Chevy Colorado has a standard 2.7-liter inline-four engine with 237 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. It cranks out 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque with higher trim levels. Also, it provides 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque on the top-spec ZR2 trim.

That’s more torque than the diesel engine provides. The new engine was enhanced with more rigid cylinder block casting, a 30% stiffer crankshaft, a fully forged rear end, and components from the diesel engine to make it more reliable.

3. The 2023 Colorado needs more physical controls

Every 2023 Chevy Colorado model comes with a standard 11.3-inch infotainment screen. It has vibrant, attractive graphics and works pretty quickly. But there is a lack of physical controls that takes some getting used to.

For example, to adjust the automatic headlights, you have to use the touchscreen. Camera views and off-roading modes are also accessed through the touchscreen. This can add a second or two to accessing certain settings.

But on a positive note, the climate control system and safety features have physical controls. Also, the system is powered by Google with excellent voice recognition software. It’s intuitive and easy to master.

Stay tuned as the Chevy Colorado hits the streets. We’re still waiting for its official safety ratings and more reliability information to come out.

2023 Chevy Colorado: A Detailed Review of This Midsize Contender

The 2023 Chevy Colorado emerges as a formidable player in the midsize truck segment, boasting substantial improvements and enticing features. With its blend of robust performance and sleek design, the Colorado is poised to challenge well-established rivals and captivate both new and seasoned truck enthusiasts.

Comprehensive Overview of the 2023 Chevy Colorado

Priced between $29,200 and $46,800, the 2023 Chevy Colorado has been recognized as the Midsize Truck of the Year by J.D. Power. This third-generation model is not just a facelift but a total redesign that introduces a bolder aesthetic, enhanced power, and a significantly upgraded interior. Despite its numerous positives, such as a smooth ride and strong off-roading capabilities, the Colorado does face some drawbacks, including a lack of physical controls, the absence of a long bed option, and a cramped rear seat, scoring an 8.6 out of 10 on the MotorBiscuit scale.

Performance and Trim Options

Under the hood, the new Colorado is powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, offered in different output levels across its various trims. From the base WT trim at 237 hp to the high-end ZR2’s 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, the truck is designed to cater to a range of needs, balancing between standard utility features and advanced off-road capabilities. The driving experience is noted for its controlled body motions and responsive steering, making it a joy to drive in both urban and rugged settings.

Capabilities and Interior Comfort

The Colorado is well-equipped for off-road adventures, especially in its ZR2 trim, which includes features like a 3.0-inch lift and Multimatic DSSV dampers. On-road, it delivers a comfortable ride, overshadowing competitors like the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma with its smoother handling and more refined interior. However, potential buyers might find the tight rear seating space a downside if regular passenger accommodation is a priority. Despite these considerations, the truck’s well-appointed cabin and advanced technology, including a robust infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, set it apart in its class.

This detailed analysis of the 2023 Chevy Colorado underscores its potential to redefine standards in the midsize truck category, appealing to those who value a mix of traditional truck virtues and modern innovations.

The 2023 Chevy Colorado Rocks the Toyota Tacoma in 1 Critical Area

The Chevrolet Colorado has been trying to catch the Toyota Tacoma for years, but it has one undeniable advantage. The revamped 2023 Chevy Colorado has the muscle to finally dethrone the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, and it still beats the remodeled 2024 Tacoma too.

Can the 2023 Chevy Colorado tow more than the Toyota Tacoma?

Yes, the 2023 Chevy Colorado can tow more than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. When properly equipped, the 2023 Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,684 lbs. It matches what the Jeep Gladiator can tow.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs and can carry a payload of up to 1,685 lbs. So, the Colorado can tow up to 900 lbs more, which isn’t that big of a difference. But hey, size matters.

Plus, the 2024 Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 lbs. It actually lost 300 lbs of towing power. So, the Colorado can tow 1,200 lbs more than the new Tacoma. That’s a much better-looking figure. Also, the redesigned Tacoma can carry a payload of up to 1,709 lbs.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more power?

The standard Colorado has more power than the entry-level 2023 Tacoma. The Colorado kicks things off with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

With the standard 2023 Toyota Tacoma, you get a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. But you can upgrade to the 3.5–liter V6 engine for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.

The Turbo Plus variant of the Colorado provides 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The High Output variant boosts the torque to 430 lb.

With the 2024 Tacoma, the standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine provides 228 and 243 lb-ft of torque. It’s tuned to provide 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque on higher trim levels.

The Tacoma Hybrid benefits from the new i-FORCE Max powertrain, which pairs the 2.7-liter engine with a battery pack and an electric motor to generate 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

So, the Colorado has more power than the 2023 Tacoma and the gas-powered 2024 Tacoma models. However, the Tacoma Hybrid squeezes in a win with 16 more hp and 35 more torque.

The 2023 Colorado can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.0 seconds, and the 2023 Tacoma gets there in roughly 7.7 seconds, but it has been clocked as low as 6.6 seconds.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more space?

The 2023 Chevy Colorado provides more interior space than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. You’ll find that taller adults fit more comfortably in the front and rear of the Colorado. However, the rear seat is still pretty tight.

If you want more passenger space, then consider going for the Jeep Gladiator or Honda Ridgeline. They have the largest backseats in the segment. Also, the Colorado has more storage capacity.

It has a larger center console and glove box. The rear seats are easier to fold up in the Colorado as well. However, the 2024 Tacoma boasts increased space and storage capacity. It could have more passenger room too.

For now, we can determine that the Chevy Colorado has more muscle than the Tacoma. It can tow more than the 2023 and 2024 models. Stay tuned for updates as we get behind the wheel of the 2024 Tacoma to compare its new features.