A new V8 and some new standard equipment all try to woo some of the disheartened full-size consumers back to the mid-size fold with the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado. A bedliner, 16-inch wheels, and the StabliliTrak electronic stability control system are all now standard. A specially tuned version of the ZQ8 sport suspension package is made available on V8 models this year, including unique 18-inch wheels, tires, and upholstery. While the 2.9-liter four-cylinder and 3.7-liter five-cylinder engines are retained, a 300-hp, 5.3-liter V8 is now available in Extended and Crew Cab trims. Small exterior appearance changes have been made, including the option of two new colors: Deep Navy and Aqua Blue Metallic.

While the LS trim line has been dropped, changes have been made to the remaining trims, including a standard color-keyed appearance and satellite radio for all three LT levels. Other options include an off-road suspension, a sunroof, and leather upholstery.

A new braking system has been designed to produce better grip and better pedal feel, while a revised fuel control module for the four- and five-cylinder engines is proposed to increase fuel economy by up to 14 percent in a four-wheel-drive five-cylinder. EPA mileage ratings vary from 18/24 mpg for a rear-wheel-drive four-cylinder to 15/21 for a four-wheel-drive V8.

All engine options are available in either rear-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive with an off-road low gear, and a four-speed automatic comes standard, with an optional five-speed manual for the four cylinder. Maximum towing capacity is 6,000 pounds. Three body styles - Regular, Extended, and Crew Cab - are available, although the four-door Crew Cab is available only in the LT trim.

Dual-stage front airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes, anti-skid and traction control are all standard, and side curtain airbags are available. The Colorado has achieved an NHTSA rating of four stars in all categories, barring front impact, for which the Crew Cab trims received five stars.

Reviewers have found that the Colorado's base suspension is better than most offered in a compact pickup, while the optional off-road suspension can be harsh, especially on longer trips. Be ready for a noticeably increased turning radius with four-wheel-drive trims. While the five-cylinder engine is quite peppy, especially on rear-wheel-drive versions, it’s inherently less refined than the V6s that have almost become a standard for this class.