CAR News

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark mini car, to be revealed Wednesday, November 16th at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, is the only car in its segment to offer a seven-inch color touch screen radio capable of displaying smart phone-based navigation, media and contacts for hands-free calling.

A sporty four-passenger, five-door hatch updated for United States and Canadian consumers, Spark is designed to excite first-time buyers and city dwellers with its bold styling and colors, affordability, the safety of 10 standard air bags, fuel efficiency and maneuverability.

Though compact, Spark offers more passenger and cargo room than other mini cars such as the Fiat 500, Smartfortwo and the Scion iQ. Equipped with the 1.2L four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission, Spark will offer competitive fuel economy.

Chevrolet’s exclusive MyLink infotainment system, which features the personalized connectivity of Pandora and Stitcher internet radio, will be offered on 1LT and 2LT models when Spark goes on sale in the United States and Canada in mid-2012.

In addition to MyLink, Spark is the only car in its segment to provide the added value of a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and the safety and security of OnStar.

“Spark is for buyers who want much more than a ‘cute’ small car – they want a car that can be personalized, is dynamic and fashionable, and delivers a lot of value for the money,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global Chevrolet marketing and strategy. “Spark’s vibrant exterior and interior colors make a fashion statement, but it is also affordable, safe, maneuverable and very fuel-efficient.”

The original version of the Spark is already on sale in Europe, Asia, Australia, Mexico and South America, where it has received several styling and safety awards.

Designed for those who live large and loud

Just as the Chevrolet Cruze helped strengthen Chevrolet’s position in the small car segment with its more-than-expected value, the Spark is designed to challenge preconceived notions of how an affordable mini car can look, feel and drive.

While the Spark looks like a three-door hatch, designers cleverly disguised the rear doors by integrating the handles into the C-pillar area. The technique gives Spark its sporty appearance without sacrificing four-door comfort and utility. An integrated spoiler over the rear hatch door enhances Spark’s dynamic appearance while also improving the car’s aerodynamics, for fuel efficiency.

Spark’s wheels-at-the-corners stance is further emphasized by standard 15-inch alloy wheels. Other exterior styling enhancements include a new grille and front fascia, a longer rear fascia, and modified headlamps and taillamps. Redesigned outside rearview mirrors also improve aerodynamics.

Uplevel features include matching rocker panel moulding, chrome brightwork at the beltline and liftgate handle trim, detail around the poke-through exhaust outlet and around the fog lamps.

Attention-grabbing exterior finishes include Salsa, Jalapeno, Denim, Lemonade and Techno Pink, as well traditional hues such as Grey Area, Black Granite, Silver Ice and Summit White.

Inside, the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, included on 1LT and 2LT Spark models, provides a seven-inch color touch screen. With MyLink, Spark buyers can bring their customized music libraries into the vehicle and use their smart phones and Bluetooth connectivity to access both Pandora and Stitcher internet radio and navigation. When the vehicle is stopped, owners can project video and even personal photo albums onto the screen.

SiriusXM Satellite Radio also is available on uplevel Spark models

“This level of infotainment and connectivity was unheard of in this segment, until now,” said Perry. “We know Spark buyers do not want to give up personalization just because they drive a smaller car.”

Air conditioning and power windows are standard across the Spark lineup. Color-coordinated interiors feature a lower instrument panel – with a motorcycle-inspired gauge cluster – and lower center console for maximum visibility and storage. Decorative inserts in the front door and instrument panel add a premium touch, as does the ice blue ambient lighting and faceplates across the door pockets and dash. Heated leatherette seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel are included on Spark 2LT.

Efficient powertrain saves fuel, money

In the United States and Canada, the Spark will be powered by a 1.2L dual-overhead cam four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing that delivers an estimated 85 horsepower (63 kW). It is mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission for competitive city and highway fuel economy. A four-speed automatic transmission will also be available.

The dual-overhead cam 1. 2 L was developed using best practices from GM Powertrain technical centers.

It combines competitive performance with sophisticated technologies such as dual continuous variable cam phasing, electronically controlled thermostat and low-friction engine oil to give customers an engine that is low- m aintenance, with reduced emissions and outstanding fuel economy.

Ride and handling

Spark’s body-frame integral structure is tight and stiff for improved driving dynamics. The electronic power steering, MacPherson strut-type front suspension and anti-lock braking systems are designed to deliver taut, tight handling characteristics that better connect the driver with the road and provide outstanding overall stability. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard.

Spark is equipped with vented front disc and rear drum brakes with low-compressibility brake pads for optimal stopping performance and good pedal feel. Low-rolling resistance tires use a silica compound and revised tread design for a solid road feel and improved fuel efficiency.

Safety features include 10 air bags

Spark was designed with occupant safety in mind, and has won safety awards in both Europe and Korea.

Its safe design begins with a structure composed of 60 percent high-strength steel.

In addition to crash-avoidance technologies such as StabiliTrak and ABS, Spark is equipped with 10 standard air bags, including both driver and passenger front knee air bags to reduce the risk of lower extremity injuries in frontal crashes. Dual-stage frontal air bags, seat-mounted side air bags and side curtain air bags that extend over the front and rear seating rows are also standard.

Other safety technologies include rollover sensing system; three-point safety belts in all four seating positions; seat belt pretensioners in the front driver and passenger seats; the LATCH child seat attachment system; releasable pedals; adjustable head restraints; and a collapsible steering column.

Spark also is equipped with the OnStar safety and security system, which uses GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of crash.

About Chevrolet

Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 140 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Sonic, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly” solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended gasoline range, according to EPA estimates. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models, fuel solutions and OnStar availability can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
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2013 CHEVROLET SPARK: PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

Overview

Model:

Chevrolet Spark

Body style / driveline:

five-door, four-passenger, front-engine; front-wheel drive

Construction:

body-frame integral

EPA vehicle class:

mini car

Manufacturing location:

South Korea

Key competitors:

Fiat 500, Smartfortwo, Scion iQ

Engine

Ecotec 1.2L I4 DOHC VVT

Type:

transverse-mounted, four-cylinder dual overhead cam gasoline engine with variable valve timing

Displacement (cc):

1249

Bore & stroke (in / mm):

70.50 x 80.00

Block material:

cast iron

Cylinder head material:

aluminum

Valvetrain:

overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake manifold

Fuel delivery:

multi-port fuel injection

Ignition system:

coil-on-plug with long-life (100,000-mile) spark plugs

Compression ratio:

10.5:1

Horsepower (hp / kW):

85.2 / 63.5 @ 6400 (est)*

Torque (lb-ft / Nm):

81.7 / 110.8 @ 4200 (est)*

Recommended fuel:

regular unleaded

Max. engine speed (rpm):

6500 (man)
6850 (auto)

Emissions controls:

close-coupled catalytic converter

Transmissions

5-speed manual (std)

4-speed automatic (opt)

Gear ratios (:1)

Front-wheel-drive five-speed with integrated differential

four-speed front-wheel-drive, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transaxle with an electronically controlled torque converter clutch

Chassis / Suspension

Front:

MacPherson strut-type

Rear:

Compound crank rear suspension

Steering type:

electronic power steering

Steering ratio:

TBD

Steer wheel turns, lock-to-lock:

TBD

Turning circle, curb-to-curb
(ft / m):

32.5 / 9.9

Brakes

Type:

front: vented disc
rear: drum

Rotor diameter (in / mm):

front: 9.3 / 256
rear: 7.9 / 200

Anti-lock braking system (ABS):

four-channel w/ brake assist

Wheels / Tires

Wheel size and type:

15-inch aluminum alloy (std)
15-inch aluminum machined gray painted (opt)

Tire size and type:

185/55R15 all-season

Dimensions
Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm):

93.5 / 2375

Overall length (in / mm):

144.7 / 3673

Overall width (in / mm):

62.9 / 1597

Overall height (in / mm):

61/ 1522

Track

Front (in / mm):

55.7 / 1405

Rear (in / mm):

55.5 / 1405

Interior

Seating capacity:

4

Headroom

Front (in /mm):

39.4 / 1010

Rear (in / mm):

37.3 / 947

Legroom

Front (in / mm):

42 / 1067

Rear (in / mm):

35.2 / 893

Shoulder room

Front (in / mm):

50.7 / 1295/

Rear (in / mm):

49.7 / 1255

Hip room

Front (in / mm):

48 / 1198

Rear (in / mm):

47.5 / 1207

Cargo volume

Behind rear seat (cu ft / L):

11.4 / 323

Behind front seat, rear seat (cu ft / L):

31.2 / 883

Capacities

EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L):

86.3 / 2444

Fuel tank (gal / L):

9.25 / 35

Engine oil (qt / L):

TBD

Transmission fluid (qt / L):

2.11 / 2.0 (man)
4.97 / 4.7 (auto)

Cooling system (qt / L):

TBD

Curb weight base (lb / kg):

2269 / 1029 (man)
2337 / 1060 (auto)

*Pending SAE certification.

Model was developed by GM Tech Center in Brazil and will be marketed in over 40 countries in Europe, Africa, Middle East and South America
1.4 Motor Econoflex has news that makes them even more efficient
Levels of finish and comfort / handling only found in higher vehicle segments
Amazing interior and spacious storage compartments 18 and the largest trunk of the category, with 563 liters
Cobalt comes in costing R $ 39,980 LS version, R $ 43,780, the LT version and R $ 45,980 LTZ version, the most complete line
Sedan has a 3 year warranty with unlimited mileage

Sao Caetano do Sul / SP – Presented as a concept still in the Hall of Buenos Aires, Argentina, in June this year, the Cobalt arrives now in its final version at 600 Chevrolet dealerships throughout Brazil. Created from research that directed from the lines of designers to the calibration of the suspension, the sedan has a number of differences that put you in a position that transcends market segments.

The focus for the development of the new sedan was the need for customers. A car built from the inside out with a design meant to last, with the U.S. research which reinforced the importance of space, versatility and a clear demonstration of prestige accessible, with refinement and finishing equipment to put the new Chevrolet sedan in a broader range segmentation, priced compact car and offer space and comfort only found in top-class sedans.

“The Cobalt will surely beyond what is offered in the market today and thus win customers who use the day to day. He has a new level of maneuverability with an unusual interior, without pressing the knees of front seat occupants, without tight shoulders, without limitation for luggage when traveling. Softness in driving stability and comfort on board. The Cobalt is all this and more. A car beyond expectations, “said Grace Lieblein, president of General Motors of Brazil.

The result of an overall architecture, the Cobalt was fully developed by the Technology Center of General Motors in Brazil, and will be marketed in over 40 countries across Europe, Africa, Middle East and South America In addition to Brazil, which is the first country receiving the Chevrolet Cobalt, three other factories also produce the model.

Prestige lines made to last

The proposal of the Chevrolet Cobalt is already clear in its proportions well defined. A three-volume sedan, which received lines that provide presence and a final design that is not lost with time in a mixture of classic, formal and familiar, with a connotation of prestige. The width of 1,735 mm and length 4479 mm, the impression is of a medium-large sedan, with an exquisite design in clean .

With a high waist line, which conveys strength, the Cobalt is the clear front aspect DNA of the Chevrolet brand, with its own personality, highlighted by the headlights in front, very attractive. At the rear, double lanterns with chrome elements and application of internal lenses give the air of modernity to the sedan.

“The lines of the Chevrolet Cobalt is clean, sharp creases that value by the surface treatment applied to its body. Clearly express the renowned brand’s DNA worldwide. I’m sure your design will be perpetuated as the current for a long time, “said Carlos Barba, Executive Director of Design for GM South America

In the trunk, Cobalt provides maximum capacity of the segment, with 563 liters and a total accessibility, enhancing the versatility of a car model that is really familiar, in a perfect marriage between the prestige during the week at work and social commitments, and comfort and versatility on weekends, to accommodate the entire family, without restrictions.

Plus, all that space on lines that generate a low coefficient of aerodynamic penetration of 0.32, which contributes to the Cobalt is the ultimate in performance and fuel economy in its segment.

Versatility, comfort and connectivity are the hallmarks of the interior of the Cobalt

Inside, the space, versatility, finish and comfort found in the Chevrolet Cobalt is their great differences, which relate to and including competitors from higher segments.

With the increased wheelbase category, the new Chevrolet sedan has room for five adults who are accommodated comfortably, with room for the shoulders, legs and knees that are featured in the category. The materials used inside the vehicle create an ambiance of refinement and clear perception of quality, with refined surfaces.

The panel in two tones, the Ice Blue LED lighting instruments that mix analog and digital displays allow a perfect view of information as well as make it clear modernity and technology. As well as the application of the insert with exclusive paint on the wheel, combined with chrome accents on the instrument panel and door panels contribute to an even more luxurious.

For the convenience of the occupants, the Cobalt has a USB port and energy sources in the center console, allowing an unusual connectivity in the category.

Regarding the storage compartments are 18 in total. The Cobalt has a center console with two cup holders plus a niche to put a bottle up to 1.5 liters. The map holder, door panels are large and also won in the front doors with space for bottles up to 1.5 liter capacity.

Clinics conducted by General Motors in various countries around the world, the exterior and interior design, dimensions and capacities, and cost-effectiveness were the items that stood out.

Global validation in more than 460 thousand kilometers and more than 3,700 simulations

How the Chevrolet Cobalt will run for more than 40 countries across Europe, Africa, Middle East and South America, the validation process was more variable and for this model ran 460,000 km in durability testing (facing from snow and ice hot temperatures) and its development has gone through more than 3,700 simulations in all engineering disciplines.

Thanks to the wheelbase than most competitors combined calibration of the suspension, the Cobalt is designed to ensure a superior maneuverability to the standards of the category in a perfect composition between stability and comfort, strength and softness. The model was developed by the GM Tech Center in Brazil from a global architecture, the models used in North America, Europe and Asia.

The result is a sedan with a dynamic behavior similar to that of European cars. Standing on the corners, but comfortable and with optimal absorption of the irregularities of the soil, the Cobalt has a smooth and pleasant with a focus on occupant comfort. The work also focused on the suspension to minimize the noise and vibration.

An example is the engine, supported by four special cushions that contribute to reducing noise, vibration and harshness, and improved maneuverability and handling. All cushions, including the transmission, were carefully calibrated to minimize the effects of external vibration and noise. They help control the transfer of forces to the steering system, ensuring a more precise control and a more efficient response.

Two engine options for the Brazilian market

The new Chevrolet Cobalt worldwide will be equipped with a comprehensive range of engines – all four cylinders, ranging from 1.3 to 1.8 liters and using gasoline, ethanol and diesel – that offer economy, power, performance and durability.

The 1.4 Econo.Flex Cobalt is an engine similar to the Chevrolet team to Agile and Montana, which has the plastic intake manifold system and the Zero System, which is controlled by torque management, which improves drivability especially by providing answers faster and reducing the emission of pollutants.

The engine type is Econo.Flex VHCE. For GM, “HCV” means – and Very High Compression – more power, more power, greater efficiency resulting in lower fuel consumption and better handling. The letter “E” is adopted the name because it resembles three words that are part of the spirit of this engine: economy, energy and ecology.

The calibration has been improved to Econo.Flex cold start, which allows the motor at room temperature for up to 8 ° C, without the aid of gasoline. In addition, the crankshaft with eight counterweights allows operation under high speed and reduced vibration.

But before reaching the Chevrolet Cobalt, the 1.4 Econo.Flex received a new generation of the drive by wire or electronic throttle, which also contributed to faster response to the accelerator, less stride in acceleration and deceleration, and thus better handling .

The exhaust system also features news: it is made of stamped stainless steel, lighter and less coarse (inner surface is smoother) than the tube and cast iron. Integrated with the catalyst, allows for greater efficiency of emission control, to have a faster response to achieve the ideal temperature. The benefits, meets the emission standards, its inspections, and provides greater durability of the catalyst, the protected position near the engine.

“The benefits to the customer, both the new generation of electronic throttle and the exhaust manifold stainless steel contribute to further improve system efficiency and reduce fuel consumption,” explains Paul Riedel, director of engineering at GM Powertrain Brazil.

This engine already meets the new technical requirements in force since the last days of January 1, 2009, emission of pollutants for light vehicles, the Program for the Control of Air Pollution from Motor Vehicles – Proncove – National Council on the Environment – CONAMA.

The exchange also has news. The Cobalt uses the F-17 box, which include plastic and aluminum components to reduce noise and vibration. This box was given new selectors coupling, which ensure more accuracy and less effort in shifting.

Equipped with the 1.4 Econo.Flex and fueled with ethanol, the Chevrolet Cobalt is 0 to 100 km / h in 11.5 seconds and reaches 170 km / h. With gasoline, it goes from 0 to 100 in 11.9 seconds and also to reach 170 km / h top speed.

In addition to the 1.4 engine Econo.Flex future, the Cobalt also has the 1.8 engine Econo.Flex combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, another item unprecedented in the segment. The choice of transmission is also linked to the research conducted with customers: 40% of entrevistasdos in our clinic in 2010 expressed the desire to have a car with automatic transmission.

Cobalt: a new reference standard items to a new class of consumers

The Cobalt comes to establish a new benchmark in the Brazilian market. Until then, if the consumer wanted a compact car with an engine above 1 liter would have to settle for the same input models with a larger displacement engine and some other equipment without an increase in comfort or the capacity ( trunk).

The Chevrolet Cobalt offers more than that: besides the 1.4 engine, it is bigger and roomier than all its competitors. And, as we have said, has the largest carrying capacity of the segment, giving more space and 563 liters of trunk

For the Brazilian market, the Cobalt comes in three versions: LS, LT and LTZ, each equipped with the 1.4 Econo.Flex. In the proposal to be the reference in terms of comfort, space and driveability, the Cobalt is also surprising in the supply of equipment.

The LS version is shipped equipped with air-conditioning and power steering. It also comes with steel wheel rim 15 and 195/65 R15 tires – the same as the intermediate versions and top line. In addition to the digital display, the LS also offers the rear defroster, key-type knife with opening distance, power door locks and trunk, 60/40 folding rear seat back, headrests with adjustable height and also the driver’s seat with height adjustment.

Since the LT version offers all that and still have the LS is equipped with dual airbags, front chrome grille, steering column with height adjustment, ABS with EBD, electric windows in the front doors, anti-theft alarm, and small differences as two-tone interior and seat covers.

The LTZ, high-end, raises the level of equipment offered in the segment, bringing in addition to the items found in LS and LT, alloy wheels, front fog lamp, door handles and internal controls of the air-conditioning chrome, chrome bar in rear, AM / FM radio with CD/MP3 reader, Bluetooth and USB input, trip computer, rear view mirrors with electric adjustment and electric drive for all windows.

In addition to these differences, the Chevrolet Cobalt comes to the Brazilian market with a 3 year warranty with unlimited mileage. Another difference between the cars in this segment.

Even have time to land on the main European markets and the Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible is finished in “targeted” the German tuner Geiger Cars, which has proposed a reinterpretation of American sports and improved version features a striking two-tone color how interesting black and orange among those available.

Although no details have been released on the performance achieved by the Camaro SS Convertible Geiger Cars, we know that the German engineers who worked on the development of the 6.2 liter V8 engine, whose power was thus increased from 432 horsepower to about 560 original modified version of the horses, with a couple who, similarly, has grown up to 779 Nm in touch

This increase of exuberance has requested a review of course the structure, while from the aesthetic point of view we see the addition of some items such as skirts, rear diffuser, a spoiler and brand new sports tailpipes. The alloy wheels have a diameter of 22 inches and mountain tires 265/30 front and 295/25 in so far at the rear.

In order to get behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible Cars Geiger says that the price is 85,000 euros needed.

The all-new Chevrolet Colorado, designed and engineered to be General Motors’ toughest, highest-performing and most-refined midsize pickup truck ever, made its global debut today in Thailand.

The Colorado range is the product of a five-year, $2 billion vehicle program developed across five continents for customers in more than 60 markets around the world.

The new-generation Colorado offers more technology and delivers more features and value than ever.. Interiors, exteriors and major mechanical features are all new, representing the most-extensive clean-sheet midsize truck program in Chevrolet’s 100-year history.
Chevrolet will offer Thai customers 26 combinations of Colorado models, powertrains, cabins, and ride heights when the range goes on sale this month. They include single-, extended- and crew-cab bodies in high- and low-stance configurations, wide- and narrow-body options, as well as two- and four-wheel-drive configurations.

The range features a choice of two all-new Duramax turbo-diesel engines that provide a leading combination of performance and fuel economy across three specification levels.
GM Thailand President Martin Apfel said the entry of the new Colorado into Thailand’s booming pickup truck market builds on Chevrolet’s heritage of building vehicles that exceed the needs and desires of its customers.

“Thailand is excited to be the first market in the world to introduce the all-new Colorado, which represents GM’s most significant play in the midsize pickup truck market ever,” Apfel said. “This is a vehicle built tough for the people of Thailand, by the people of Thailand. It is a truck of which Thailand can be proud.”

Apfel added, “The new Colorado represents our largest-ever engineering and manufacturing program and demonstrates the outstanding skills and capability that exist in this country. Our manufacturing operations have the ability to meet the needs of the local and global marketplace now and well into the future.”

Based on GM’s global body-on-frame, rear-drive midsize truck architecture, the new Colorado is designed, engineered and executed to deliver best-in-class appearance, performance, versatility and refinement.

It also has been developed to meet the highest-possible safety standards wherever it is sold. Included in the Colorado range are features such as electronic stability control, anti-lock braking system featuring electronic brake force distribution, traction control, hydraulic brake assist, cornering brake control and driver and occupant front air bags.

According to Brad Merkel, GM’s Global Vehicle Line executive for Midsize Trucks, the Colorado offers the strength, design and performance needed to compete with the world’s best truck nameplates.

“Our objective from the beginning of the program was ‘haul anything, go anywhere’ – and that’s exactly what the new Colorado delivers,” Merkel said. “We have engineered it to meet the needs and desires of commercial and personal buyers alike. It can be a workhorse, a family hauler, a lifestyle vehicle, or a truck that plays to the higher-end premium buyer.

“That versatility is a big win for our customers. Regardless of configuration, they’re getting the features of a common frame and body structure, high-performing powertrains and outstanding refinement. There are no sacrifices in fundamental hardware or aesthetics, from a very basic two-door work truck all the way up to a premium crew cab.

The development of the all-new Colorado was led by a highly skilled team of GM engineers in Brazil who used their expertise to tailor the vehicle for a number of global markets, including those in Southeast Asia.

Team members lived in Thailand during the Colorado’s development, immersing themselves in the highly competitive truck market and observing how Thais use their vehicles and the driving conditions they experience. That expertise led to the development of new Colorado models covering three specification levels: the entry-level LS, mid-range LT and range-topping LTZ.

The new lineup was designed to deliver ride and handling characteristics unexpected of a midsize pickup thanks to two levels of chassis and suspension tuning. As a result, it is equally adept both at hauling and towing and at serving as a day-to-day city commuter.
The range also features an all-new global family of GM-developed turbo-diesel four-cylinder engines designed to deliver a leading combination of performance and fuel efficiency. The two Duramax diesels, built at GM Thailand’s newly opened $200 million engine plant, are available in 2.8-liter and 2.5-liter displacements.

The 2.8-liter turbo-diesel features a variable-geometry turbocharger for optimal power and efficiency across the rpm band and a balance shaft for greater smoothness, while both engines feature components designed to last for 240,000 kilometers.

The 2.8-liter engine is rated at 180 horsepower (132 kW) and 346 lb.-ft. of torque (470 Nm) with an available six-speed automatic transmission (324 lb.-ft. / 440 Nm with a five-speed manual). The 2.5-liter engine is rated at 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 258 lb.-ft. of torque (350 Nm).

The Colorado’s presence was created by the GM South America Design Center

in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and takes many cues from the three Colorado concept vehicles revealed at global auto shows in Thailand, Argentina, Australia and Germany throughout the year.
Design highlights include a power dome in the hood which, combined with a raised cowl, is intended to give the Colorado a strong, purposeful appearance. Higher-mounted dual projector headlamps are positioned beneath the power dome, intended to emphasize visual strength in the face of the vehicle.
Also prominent is the dual-port grille – an unmistakable Chevrolet cue – that carries a three-dimensional grille mesh. Chrome appointments in the grille surround, door handles, tailgate handle, mirror caps, and headlamps and fog lamps on high-level models are intended to provide a premium appearance.

Meanwhile, in a first for a Chevrolet pickup truck, the Colorado offers LED-illuminated tail lamps on high-level models.
That goal of premium appearance is also reflected by detailed sheet metal work throughout the exterior, including the hood and door panels, which blend layers of natural light for an uncluttered, natural surface appearance.
With a flowing instrument panel, integrated center stack and trademark Chevrolet dual cockpit design, the interior of the all-new Colorado combines car-like characteristics with the boldness expected of a pickup.

With segment-leading front- and second-row shoulder room, headroom and seat height, the Colorado is designed to provide outstanding levels of interior comfort for drivers and passengers alike.
Designers have also carried the premium finish expressed in the Colorado’s exterior into the interior with the use of chrome appointments around the shifter and shifter head; steering wheel bezels; heating and air conditioning controls; door pulls; door appliqués; and surrounding the radio head.
The use of LED backlighting in the instrument cluster and HVAC controls in Chevrolet’s trademark “Ice Blue” illumination is designed to provide a high-definition appearance.

The Colorado also includes several storage locations designed to be best in class. The regular cab has 16 storage locations, while the extended cab has 19 and the crew cab has 30.
Seats feature flat-woven cloth fabric or optional leather on high-end models with matching instrument panel inserts. They carry sculpted edges and have dual-density foam construction. A front vinyl bench seat is available on base models.
Convenience features like auxiliary power, auxiliary plugs and USB connectivity are standard across the range.

2012 Chevrolet Colorado – HIGHLIGHTS

Overview

GM Thailand’s largest-ever engineering and manufacturing program
Total global program costs were $2 billion, including a $500 million investment to prepare GM Thailand’s Rayong manufacturing facility for Colorado production
More than 2.5 million kilometers were driven during program development
Developed across five continents for sale in more than 60 markets around the world
More markets and production sites for the vehicle will be announced in the coming months
Engines

2.5-liter Duramax turbo-diesel
2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel
Transmissions

Five-speed manual transmissions
Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission with automatic gear selection via a toggle switch on the shift head
A new two-speed, electronically actuated part-time transfer case is applied on four-wheel-drive-equipped vehicles
Further product details will be announced later.