Check Out the New 2023 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss

 

Chevy launched the midsize Colorado pickup's previous generation in 2015, featuring the impressive Z71 off-road package. In 2017, the high-performance ZR2 was added to the Colorado lineup, enhancing its off-road capabilities even further. 

But with the increasing popularity of limited edition factory off-road models, Chevy recognized the opportunity - and the demand - for a midsize truck that would bridge the gap between the Z71 and the hardcore ZR2. And thus, the 2023 Chevy Trail Boss was born.

What Sets the Colorado Trail Boss Apart?

Drawing inspiration from the Silverado version, the all-new 2023 Colorado Trail Boss boasts a range of outstanding features. Starting with the base Work Truck (WT) trim, the Trail Boss adds a 2-inch suspension lift, 3-inch-wider track, and a powerful 2.7-liter Turbo Plus engine, generating 310 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The truck also features 32-inch Goodyear Territory A/T off-road tires, with the option to upgrade to Goodyear Territory M/T rubber for an additional $495.

To further enhance the off-road experience, the Trail Boss is equipped with a G80 automatic locking rear differential, a skidplate package, and other top-notch features. Drivers can also opt for the ZR2's burly front bash plate and mid-mounted skid, as well as steel rock rails for added protection.

Starting at around $38,500, the 2023 Colorado Trail Boss is reasonably priced, and drivers can get a well-equipped model for about $43,000. With its powerful engine, sturdy suspension, and off-road-ready tires, the Trail Boss is set to take on any challenge on or off the road.

The Chevy Colorado Trail Boss: Off-Road and On-Road Capabilities

The 2023 Colorado lineup includes five trims, with three of them focusing on off-road capabilities: Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2. Given its off-road focus, it's no surprise that the new Trail Boss performs well on dirt trails. The truck has proven to provide solid ride quality, flexible suspension, and grippy tires. The Terrain drive mode offers an enjoyable experience, allowing for one-pedal driving, while the Off-Road mode delivers great throttle and transmission response.

If high-speed off-road adventures are your preference, then the ZR2 is the way to go. However, you’ll want to take note of the Trail Boss's 2-inch lift, which provides increased ground clearance and better approach, departure, and breakover angles. In comparison to the lower-trimmed Z71, the Trail Boss handles obstacles without any issues, and the front air dam can be easily removed for additional clearance.

On highways, the Trail Boss's ride quality is typical of a body-on-frame pickup. Smoothness depends on the quality of the road surface, with the truck capable of handling expansion joints, potholes, and broken pavement. 

Overall, the 2023 Colorado Trail Boss provides a comfortable and capable off-road experience with impressive ground clearance and approach angles. With its flexible suspension, grippy tires, and multiple drive modes, it can tackle virtually any terrain.

What About the Interior of the 2023 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss?

The Colorado Trail Boss's interior is designed with minimalists in mind, based on the Work Truck (WT) trim. However, it still manages to impress with a modern and upscale design, including a rugged yet stylish instrument panel, comfortable and well-appointed front seats, and well-placed switchgear. 

The driver can easily reach important buttons and switches, and the combination four-wheel drive and drive mode selector is intuitive. The Trail Boss also features physical buttons and knobs for HVAC control, which can come in handy for quick climate control adjustments. Plus, the truck comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Chevy’s 2023 Colorado Z71 vs. Trail Boss vs. ZR2 - What’s the Difference? 

If you take a closer look at the 2023 Colorado lineup, there are key differences between the models - here’s a quick breakdown:

• The Trail Boss and Z71 are both available with a midrange 2.7-liter Turbo Plus engine, which produces an estimated 310 hp and about 390 lb-ft of torque. The ZR2 levels up with a 2.7-liter Turbo HIgh-Output engine, boosting torque to 430 lb-ft.
• The 2023 Colorado lineup offers different suspension and damping options for each trim level. The Z71 and LT models come with standard suspension, while the Trail Boss has a 2-inch raised and 3.5-inch widened suspension, and the ZR2 features a 3-inch lift and 3.5-inch wider suspension. 
• The Z71 and Trail Boss will be equipped with 18x8.5-inch aluminum wheels, whereas the ZR2 will have 17x8-inch wheels.
• The four drive modes available on the Colorado Z71 and Trail Boss are Normal, Tow/Haul, Off-Road, and Terrain, while the ZR2 adds a fifth mode called Baja. Additionally, the ZR2 offers an extra drive mode that removes all electronic intervention.
• The 2023 Colorado offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, available on the Z71 and Trail Boss trims. However, the ZR2 has a lower maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

When Can I Get a 2023 Colorado Trail Boss?

The 2023 Chevrolet Trail Boss provides an excellent bang for your buck, giving you way more truck for not that much more money. Explore all the features of the 2023 Chevy Colorado lineup - and take your favorite models for a test drive - at your local Valley Chevy Dealers today!

 

Photo Credits: Chevy Press Room