Detailed Automotive Review – 2008 Chevrolet Colorado – Test Drive & Prices

For years, Chevrolet and GMC have had a great reputation for quality trucks. There’s no question, even at today’s gas prices, that these trucks are pure American and always will be. It just won’t be the same having to live without the truck, especially when most of us depend on it for business and pleasure, it’s the car most of us can’t live without. Chevrolet’s light-duty pickup truck has been quite successful for more than 25 years. In addition to the larger Silverados and C-10s, the smaller S-10 has sold its fair share of trucks, millions worldwide. It was always the choice for the guy who wanted a smaller truck, a towner to get around, the racer for the trip to the lumber yard. It has been unanimously dubbed the “inexpensive all-purpose truck.” The S-10 nameplate has since disappeared from new Chevy lots, but its newest incarnation, the Chevrolet Colorado, carries on the all-purpose legacy. With such a demanding market for innovative vehicles, does the 2008 Colorado light candles with other competitive trucks? I will test the 2008 Chevrolet Colorado Regular Cab and simply compare its heavy-duty capabilities to comparable models in its class. Does it still offer everything for the American worker?

At first, I chose to try a base 4-cylinder stick-shift LS model, the no-frills offering. It’s the volume leader in the lineup of all manufacturers, so it was clearly the smartest choice to base a fair assessment on. Basic work truck trim isn’t known for its sleek looks, but the 2008 Colorado was the epitome of understated. This was fine, the truck was built to last and comes in a wide range of colors, mine was “DOT” white. Boring looks aside, the Colorado gets the job done as it packs in a host of truck-like features. The bed is built without the exposed studs, this was great because I could just slide in 2x4s or plywood without it hanging up. Also, there would be no annoying rust problem, which helps to improve its durability. My test Colorado also had some tie-downs, stake pockets, two-tier cargo, rubber mat, light-duty towing package, weep holes for standing water, and a lockable/multi-fit tailgate that was designed with the versatility. Chevy did an outstanding job of integrating clever ideas into its focused cargo area to eliminate the need to purchase unnecessary accessories. A real money saver look! Overall, I gave a thumbs up for its useful mix of durability and features, even though the overall package lacked personality. He was willing to look beyond that.

Second, my inside Colorado had to do with job qualification. I keep thinking to myself, this truck would be abused every day. Vinyl, as some would expect, is durable, if not commercialized. I’m glad mine at least came with AM/FM radio, standard cruise control, automatic headlight control, onstar, and dual airbags. It was the least he expected, and he delivered more than he wanted. Believe it or not, I also had the rubber floor to spray and wash. Very pretty and very easy to clean. Driveability was dynamic, as a pickup truck should be. The 4-cylinder sounded a bit too rough, if not thirsty for more power. During cold starts this little engine gets too noisy even for me. If Chevy decided to improve their midsize area, maybe they should design a much quieter and more refined engine, hopefully one day. Overall power was adequate for the everyday driver, perhaps lacking what he should have compared to the Toyota Tacoma or even the Ford Ranger.

There are a couple of areas where I would seriously consider choosing the 2008 Chevrolet Colorado over the rest. The price is super cheap, especially for GM’s thirst for deep discounts, even in its 2008 model year. My test mule priced at just $15,495 on an automatic, a couple thousand extra in rebates make this a absolute bargain. Also expect anywhere from $500 to $1,200 between MSRP and bill to make the deal easier. Plus, the aftermarket is huge for upgrading and customizing the bland Colorado. There are more parts and accessories available for this truck than any other. The consumer can easily improve looks, power and gas mileage with quick and easy add-ons! In conclusion, the 2008 Chevrolet Colorado is the perennial smart choice for the ever-demanding crowd of everyday truck drivers. Inexpensive, with many options and durable for the common man.