2016 Chevrolet Colorado Diesel Review

The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado climbs the steep ascent with remarkable ease, and the truck is even more impressive once we start rolling downhill. Standard and exclusive to the diesel-powered Colorado is an all-new trailer brake controller, which includes an exhaust brake system that reduces brake wear, and the six-speed automatic transmission’s tow-haul mode eagerly kicks down gears and keeps the truck’s speed in check.

We level out, roll the windows down, drape our left arm over the driver’s door, tune the Apple Carplay infotainment system to country, and soak up a little bit of western life as we roll through small towns, the Colorado’s engine clattering like a small tractor when we pull up to stop signs.

We head back to Alisal Ranch and ditch the horse trailer before setting off down some rutted off-road trails. The Goodyear Wrangler All-Season tires have enough sidewall to help dampen the packed gravel and have just enough footprint to paw through the sandier sections. A blind crest gives way to a steep, rocky grade, so we push the hill descent control button, allowing the brakes to automatically balance traction. All we do is manage speed, using the truck’s cruise control buttons to go faster or slower, and point the truck away from ditches.