The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado is getting an update this year. The truck ‘s original 3.6-liter V6 engine will be upgraded and tweaked to offer better performance.

Apart from the tweak, the model is now mated to an eight speed automatic transmission system. It replaces the existing six speed gearbox which boosts gear ratio by 7.0. The change allows the driver to experience better torque, acceleration and increased fuel efficiency. Chevrolet claims that by this modification, they made it easier to achieve first gear ratio and minimizes the load on drivers when the vehicle is fully loaded with goods.

The auto manufacturer also added that the lower rear axle ratio in the new 2017 Chevrolet Colorado helps reduce engine rpm especially in highway driving. The change contributes a major share to increased fuel economy. The Colorado 2017 edition is going head to head against the Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tacoma and the Nissan Frontier. All these models offer six gears while Chevrolet has gone a step ahead to offer an eight speed gearbox.

Being an automatic system saves the driver from having to focus on gear shifting ratio but can focus on handling the vehicle when it is fully loaded. The new V6 engine is capable of delivering up to 308 horsepower and a 275 lb feet of torque. The numbers don’t drastically differ from the outgoing model. However, multiple new technologies have been incorporated into the vehicle for best performance and ride comfort.

Engine improvements include cylinder deactivation system, variable valve timing and revised direct injection system. The auto manufacturer revised the model about two years ago with the 2015 edition. It received a 2.8-liter turbodiesel inline four engine with the 2016 edition and even won the Truck of the Year award.

There is no word on the list of features available in the car or the interior design. The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado is about to be out which is when we expect the brand to reveal more details. There should be specific trimline variants available on launch. Pricing and specifications of the models are yet to be announced.

General Motors is yet to announce the GMC Canyon. New models are heading to stores before the end of 2016 and more will find its way in the first half of 2017. Trucks are usually popular in the United States and auto manufacturers choose to focus on the region. The Colorado is not going to be available in other regions for now.