2006 Chevrolet Colorado Extended Cab 4WD New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado?
This year's Colorado is basically identical to last year's truck, with upgraded cloth upholstery added to LT models, a new Sun-and-Sound package with an in-dash CD changer and a power sunroof for LT models, and the addition of Blue Granite Metallic to the paint chart.

Advantages of the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado:

• Dedicated sport and off-road models
• Available side curtain airbags
• High horsepower engines
• Comfortable front seats
• Excellent off-road capability

Objections to the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado:

• Towing capacity tops out at 4,000 pounds
• Truck buyers may balk at lack of V6 or V8 engine choices
• Rear drum brakes
• Cramped back seats

Editor's Advice:
GM is going after a thicker slice of the compact truck pie with the 2006 Colorado, a bigger, stronger and better small pickup than it has ever fielded. Though maximum towing capacity is down and there are no V6 or V8 engines available, the Chevy Colorado is a viable choice despite the appearance of redesigned key competitors. Thanks to the Colorado's stiff foundation, the ride and handling are composed. Do not translate "composed" to mean "remarkable," because the Chevy Colorado driving experience is typical of any body-on-frame pickup truck. The Colorado controls body-roll well and turns in with something approaching responsiveness, but the steering is slow and numb, and the suspension wiggled and jiggled over crumbling pavement. Just because this horse can't haul or tow much doesn't mean it's been "citified." It rides and drives like a traditional pickup. During the four-wheeling segment of our test drive, the 2005 Chevrolet Colorado overwhelmed us with its utter composure and competence. Ruggedly handsome, powered by refined and capable motors, deftly upsized for greater appeal and available in a wide variety of configurations, the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado makes a compelling case for pickup consumers in coming years.