Photo: Chevrolet
Chevrolet’s brand new mid-size pickup truck, the 2015 Colorado, is up to 1,400 pounds (635 kg) lighter than full-size trucks. It might not seem that much considering that the 2015 Ford F-150, a full-size pickup, is 600 pounds (272 kg) lighter than its predecessor, but the 2015 Colorado is bound to become the lightest light-duty truck in America.
Update: Compared to the other mid-size pickup trucks, the 2015 Colorado is 109 lbs (49 kg) heavier than the 2014 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab (4,220 lbs/1,914 kg) and 80 lbs (36 kg) lighter than the 2014 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab (4,409 lbs/2,000 kg)
Unlike Ford, who developed an aluminum alloy body for the redesigned F-150, Chevrolet used lightweight high-strength steel for about 71 percent of the body structure and the fully boxed frame.
The pickup box was built out of roll-formed steel, which is lighter and stronger than traditional stamped steel, while the hood, front steering knuckles, cylinder heads and engine blocks were made from aluminum. At the front, the 2015 Colorado received a composite grille opening reinforcement with active shutters, which reduces aerodynamic drag and improves cooling performance.
Chevy says these mass-reducing features allowed the company to stick to naturally-aspirated engines instead of having to cope with the costs and complexity of offering turbocharged power units.
“When it comes to building lighter pickups, there is more than one answer,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer.
“Building on our experience with the new Silverado, we engineered the Colorado to be highly mass-efficient, while still providing the performance, capability, dependability and features that midsize truck customers are asking for.”
Although official performance specs have yet to be announced, Chevrolet claims the Colorado will top the mid-size segment in terms of towing capability - with “up to 6,700 pounds” - and fuel efficiency. Concerning the latter, EPA estimates for this vehicle are expected to arrive this summer.
“For many customers, a midsize pickup is simply a better solution,” added Luke. “You get the versatility and capability of a truck in a package that is fun to drive and easier to maneuver and park. Colorado will meet the unique needs of midsize pickup customers, while also providing an attractive, cost-effective alternative for anyone seeking a more fuel-efficient pickup.”
As a reminder, the 2015 Colorado will be launched with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder (193 hp / 184 lb-ft) and an optional 3.6-liter V6 (302 hp / 270 lb-ft). For the 2016 model year, the truck will receive a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel mill. The new mid-size truck will also be offered with a GMC badge, as the 2015 Canyon.
Unlike Ford, who developed an aluminum alloy body for the redesigned F-150, Chevrolet used lightweight high-strength steel for about 71 percent of the body structure and the fully boxed frame.
Chevy says these mass-reducing features allowed the company to stick to naturally-aspirated engines instead of having to cope with the costs and complexity of offering turbocharged power units.
“When it comes to building lighter pickups, there is more than one answer,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer.
Although official performance specs have yet to be announced, Chevrolet claims the Colorado will top the mid-size segment in terms of towing capability - with “up to 6,700 pounds” - and fuel efficiency. Concerning the latter, EPA estimates for this vehicle are expected to arrive this summer.
As a reminder, the 2015 Colorado will be launched with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder (193 hp / 184 lb-ft) and an optional 3.6-liter V6 (302 hp / 270 lb-ft). For the 2016 model year, the truck will receive a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel mill. The new mid-size truck will also be offered with a GMC badge, as the 2015 Canyon.
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