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Back to August 2012 Motorsports News Archive
| 27-08-2012 at 01:00: 2013 Holden Colorado LTZ Test & Review | |
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The design of the latest model was led by GM operations in Brazil but included engineering and design input from Holden in Australia. With that in mind it looks like the teams of designers have made the right choice. The new design is only the tip of the iceberg as there are new engines, new interior and added features that only Holden can offer. The power for the LTZ comes in the form of a new 2.8 litre in-line 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, with a new 2.5 offered in the base model that offers 110 kW and 3,500 Nm. The output for the new 2.8 litre is 132 kW at 3,800 rpm but that’s where the similarities between the auto and manual variants end. The engine matched with the auto whether in 4WD or 2WD has an impressive 470 Nm of torque where the manual comes down to a rather standard 440 Nm. Despite the differences in power, both the auto and manual stand strong. There is a big difference on paper for fuel economy with 7.9 litres per 100km for the manual 4×4 and a rather high 9.1 litres per 100km for the auto (7.8 and 9.0 litres per 100km for the LTZ 2WD manual and auto respectively). Although this is what’s on paper, we managed to average mid to high eights in both the 4×4 and 4×2 no matter what transmission. Walking up to the Colorado, the first thing you notice is the overall size. The ute is big and has defiantly been influenced by American pick-ups but this new look appeals to the Australian market as a tough Aussie ute. The tub size has improved and can carry more than a few shoe boxes that the old model could. There are a number of tie down points, a wide opening tailgate and the Colorado can sure handle a load with the high sides. The front end is a completely new look and the bonnet no longer displays the scoop that the Colorado and other diesel utes displayed proudly. This however is no issue for the Colorado LTZ as the front end stands proud in stature. Stepping inside the Colorado LTZ you are expecting big things, but you will be slightly disappointed. The interior has been updated from the previous model however it is not going to win any awards with design or size. As for practicality, everything you need is there including electric climate control, power windows, two power outlets and a helpful grab handle for getting in. Although the LTZ has all of these great features and many more, the look is rather plan and already looks outdated and the feel and room inside does not feel as big as some of its competitors. Above the air conditioning controls, the basic screen for the radio looks very early 2000 in design. Being the top of the range and not having a multifunction screen and no options for a satellite system, this will affect many customers’ choices to buy. As utes go, the Colorado LTZ has good visibility both forwards and rearward and the seat position is well set. The seat material is basic but practical for all kinds of use. The seats are also firm but not too hard and on or off road they do keep you in place. The steering wheel is leather wrapped and offers Bluetooth, audio and cruise control buttons which are in an easy reach position. Driveability for the LTZ is quite good. On the road you sit a lot higher than the previous model which is more in line with the Toyota HiLux. No longer looking up to other standard 4×4’s gives the sense that Holden did well with the ride height. The suspension is soft and can be noticed when heading into tighter corners with a large amount of body roll. This however is the compromise needed for good off road capabilities. Around town and to and from the office the Colorado LTZ does all that you need. It looks good driving and in the car park it stands out. When the weekend comes around this ute is begging to head off road. No matter where you want to go, up the beach or through the forest, the Colorado will get you there. If four wheel driving is not four you but you need to tow a caravan boat or race car, then the Colorado can handle what you throw at it. With the upgraded range, the LTZ has a class leading towing capacity of 3.5 tonne (3 tonne with the 2.5). Safety is not forgotten with the new designed Colorado. All in the range come standard with ABS, EBD, ESC, Hydraulic Brake Assist and front driver and passenger airbags and full length curtain airbags. The Colorado also comes with a 5-star safety rating from ANCAP. ADM Opinion The new Colorado LTZ is a great looking utility. It has a tough exterior and drives really well both on and off the road. We took it on a rather rough and rocky pass and had no problems getting from one end to the other. The interior is a big letdown as we were expecting a lot more from Holden. It feels outdated and they could have done so much more. All in all the Colorado LTZ is a good ute and well worth a look if in the market for a new car. Specifications Engine: 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo direct injection diesel Likes Power Dislikes Outdated Interior ADM Gives the Holden Colorado LTZ 4×4 and 4×2 4 out of 5 Helmets
COLORADO PRICING AND MODEL LINE-UP Recommended Retail Pricing: 4×2 SINGLE CABRRPDXCab Chassis2.5L TDMT$26,990LXCab Chassis2.8L TDMT$27,990LXCab Chassis2.8L TDAT$29,9904×2 CREW CABLXCab Chassis2.8L TDMT$33,990LXCab Chassis2.8L TDAT$35,990LXPickup2.8L TDMT$35,490LXPickup2.8L TDAT$37,490LTPickup2.8L TDMT$36,490LTPickup2.8L TDAT$38,490LTZPickup2.8L TDMT$40,990LTZPickup2.8L TDAT$42,9904×4 SINGLE CAB DXCab Chassis2.8L TDMT$34,990LXCab Chassis2.8L TDMT$35,990LXCab Chassis2.8L TDAT$37,9904×4 SPACE CABLXCab Chassis2.8L TDMT$40,490LXCab Chassis2.8L TDAT$42,490LTZPickup2.8L TDMT$47,490LTZPickup2.8L TDAT$49,4904×4 CREW CABLXCab Chassis2.8L TDMT$42,990LXCab Chassis2.8L TDAT$44,990LXPickup2.8L TDMT$44,490LXPickup2.8L TDAT$46,490LTPickup2.8L TDMT$45,490LTPickup2.8L TDAT$47,490LTZPickup2.8L TDMT$49,990LTZPickup2.8L TDAT$51,990 |
The covers are off and Holden has shown Australia its new weapon in the fight for market share in the light commercial class. Holden’s all-new Colorado is a big rig and Holden are expecting big things from their new work horse.
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