2023 Chevrolet Colorado vs 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 presented a bold and aggressive design that aligned with Chevrolet's current vehicle portfolio. Its small headlights and body panel design were somewhat unconventional, potentially polarizing opinions. However, the Silverado offered various appearance packages like the Rally Edition and Redline Edition to enhance its visual appeal. Inside, the cabin was functional and varied depending on the trim level, with the WT and Custom trims featuring a more traditional layout, while others boasted a modern, high-tech dashboard centred around a large touchscreen. The Silverado's interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering different upholstery options and tech features across its trims.

In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss exuded a rugged off-road persona with its factory suspension lift, box-flared fenders, and blacked-out look. The Colorado's styling was well-balanced, with a hint of Camaro influence in its interior design. However, the base WT and Trail Boss trims had a less appealing grey front fascia and a basic interior. The Trail Boss trim did include a purposeful front skid plate, enhancing its off-road capability. The Colorado's interior was comfortable, though the use of hard plastics and lack of colour contrast in some trims detracted from its overall appeal. The truck's design was practical, with a focus on functionality and off-road readiness.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a range of engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Silverado provided two V8 options: a 5.3-litre engine with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2-litre engine delivering 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. Additionally, a six-cylinder Duramax turbodiesel engine was available, generating 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. The Silverado's towing capacity reached up to 6,000 kilograms (13,300 pounds) with the 6.2-litre V8 and Max Towing package. The truck's handling was commendable for its size, offering a smooth ride and capable off-road performance, particularly in the Trail Boss and ZR2 trims.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado featured a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine across all trims. The WT and LT trims produced 237 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the Trail Boss and Z71 trims offered 310 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The ZR2 trim matched the 310-hp rating but increased torque to 430 lb-ft. The Colorado's eight-speed automatic transmission and Autotrac 4WD system provided versatility for various driving conditions. The Trail Boss trim included a suspension lift and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Colorado excelled in off-road environments, with multiple driving modes and hill descent control. On pavement, the truck offered a quiet and comfortable ride, though its fuel economy was less impressive.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered multiple body styles, including regular, double, and crew cabs, with varying bed lengths. The regular cab was suited for work-focused trims, while the double cab provided easy access to rear seats with conventional doors. The crew cab was spacious, offering ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The rear bench could be folded for additional in-cabin cargo space, making it practical for carrying valuable items.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss provided comfortable seating for four, with the option to squeeze a fifth passenger in the back. The cloth upholstery was comfortable, though it attracted pet hair. The power driver's seat offered good adjustability, but the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The back seat provided adequate headroom and legroom, with standard rear air conditioning vents in most trims. The Colorado's cargo bed measured 1,186 litres, with features like an EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate and StowFlex storage panel. The Mid-Position tailgate allowed for carrying long items, supporting up to 225 kilograms (500 pounds).

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 featured a base infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity and a fully digital instrument panel. The LTZ trim added wireless device charging and additional USB ports. The Silverado's infotainment system was user-friendly, with vivid graphics and responsive controls.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado came equipped with digital instrumentation and an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology. The system included Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to various apps. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Colorado ZR2 trim featured a seven-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system offered real-time off-roading data and trailer-towing technology, enhancing its functionality.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 came with standard advanced driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The LTZ trim added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The Silverado received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and high scores from the IIHS.

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including OnStar emergency services, a Teen Driver system, and Chevy Safety Assist. The standard ADAS included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. However, the forward-collision warning system was prone to false alerts, which could be frustrating for drivers.