2009 Chevrolet Colorado: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado is a new 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 for higher-end versions. Stability and traction control also become standard, and the brakes receive an update.
About the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado
1st generation (2004-2012), sixth model year, after the 2007 front-end update and before the 2010 trim-name reshuffle.
Chevrolet positioned the 2009 Colorado as a small pickup with a very broad range of personalities: basic work truck, more comfortable everyday truck, off-road version, and even a factory V8 model. Its core appeal was choice. Buyers could pick the cab size, bed length, and equipment level that fit light-duty hauling, commuting, or weekend use, without stepping up to a full-size Silverado. That wide spread of body styles and personalities is what most clearly set Colorado apart.
The 2009 Colorado lineup runs from the basic, work-focused Work Truck to the more polished LT, with regular, extended, and crew cab body styles. The Work Truck uses a 2.9-liter four-cylinder and five-speed manual, while the LT family adds features such as fog lamps, chrome grille trim, CD/MP3 audio, and stronger five-cylinder or V8 power.
What changed, by category
2009 Chevrolet Colorado specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.9 Liter / 5-Cyl, 3.7 Liter / V8, 5.3 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.9 Liter / 5-Cyl, 3.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15–18 mpg | 17–18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21–24 mpg | 23–24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 185–300 hp | 185–242 hp |
| Torque | 190–320 lb-ft | 190–242 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 4000–6000 lb | 4000–6000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 37–44 cu-ft | 44 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 23.1–34.8 in | 23.1 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 3–5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Mirrors | ||
| Privacy Glass | ||
| Side Steps | ||
| Tow Hooks | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Locks | ||
| Power Windows | ||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado?
The biggest change is the addition of a 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 in higher-end versions of the 2009 Colorado. It gives this small pickup a stronger factory engine option than before.
Does every 2009 Chevrolet Colorado have the V8?
No. The 5.3-liter V8 is limited to higher-end versions. The work-focused model uses a 2.9-liter four-cylinder and five-speed manual, while the LT family spans five-cylinder and V8-powered versions.
What safety changes did the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado receive?
The 2009 Colorado gains standard stability control with traction control across the lineup. Chevrolet also updated the brake hardware for this model year.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado meaningfully different from the 2008 model?
Yes, mainly if V8 power and standard stability control matter to you. The 2009 model adds the 300-hp V8, makes stability and traction control standard, and receives updated brakes, while the rest of the truck changes only modestly.
Which trim names were added to the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado lineup?
LT and Work Truck were added as named trims for 2009. Work Truck is the basic utility model, while LT is the more polished and broadly equipped side of the lineup.