Chevrolet is making some changes to its popular midsize Colorado pickups for 2024. For the 2024 model year Chevrolet dumps the 2.7-liter Turbo Plus inline-four engine. Though this seems like a retreat from four-cylinder engine options, it makes sense once you see the rest of the Colorado’s powerplant offerings. 

Exercising its zeal in capitalizing on software variances for similar components to achieve different-appearing options, the 2.7 Turbo Plus is essentially the same as GM’s 2.7-liter TurboMax. The difference is in its software settings, resulting in different torque numbers.

What is the difference between the 2.7-liter Turbo Plus and TurboMax?

They both have the same turbochargers, rotating assembly, heads, injectors, and charge air cooler. As best as we know, one difference, besides 237 hp versus 310 hp, is that the Turbo Plus does not have oil piston squirters. That’s part of the reason it has lower power and torque. 

For the 2.7 Turbo Plus, the torque is 390 lb-ft, while the TurboMax has 430 lb-ft of torque. So you paid more for the all-new 2023 Colorado for that extra grunt. Or put another way, choosing the Turbo Plus version gave buyers a throttled-back 2.7-liter. Some speculate that the lower-performing 2.7 purpose was to snag a best-in-class mpg number.   

Is the Colorado ZR2 Bison option available in 2024?

Both trucks have a maximum towing capacity of 5,500 lbs and a 1,050 payload rating. These figures are for either truck with 17-inch beadlock wheels, 35-inch Mud tires, and the TurboMax L3B 2.7-liter. GM continues with the eight-speed automatic transmission, two-speed transfer case, and power-locking front and rear diffs. 

There are other changes coming for the 2024 Colorado and sibling GMC Canyon. The much-anticipated new off-road trims are the ZR2 Bison and AT4X American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) Edition for the Canyon. The 2024 Bison starting price will be right at $50,000, with the AEV beginning at $60,000. The Desert Boss Special Edition package is not available for 2024.

What are some other off-road packages?

The dealer-installed options include an Off-Road Lighting package, auxiliary off-road lights, a Sports Bar package, a Hood Decal package, black tailgate lettering, black assist steps, and a Kicker audio system. Inside, the eight-inch screen is gone, now it features a larger 11-inch screen. And there are more upgrades and color choices rounding out the latest for 2024. 

Ordering for the 2024 Colorado and Canyon begins now. GM is then processing orders toward the end of September. Regular production of the 2024 Colorado begins October 30th, 2023. Both are made at GM’s Wentzville, Missouri plant.