2020 Holden Colorado LTZ Review

Powering the Colorado LTZ is Holden's proven 2.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, producing 147kW of power and a substantial 500Nm of torque. Mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission and a selectable part-time four-wheel drive system with high and low range, it's a drivetrain designed for hauling loads rather than chasing performance figures.

Where the Colorado shines is in its effortless mid-range pulling power. Peak torque arrives low in the rev range, making overtaking, towing and climbing steep hills feel relaxed. Around town the gearbox shifts predictably, while on the highway the engine settles into an easy cruising rhythm.

Off the bitumen, the selectable 4WD system, low-range transfer case, hill descent control and generous ground clearance allow the Colorado to confidently tackle dirt roads, beaches and moderate off-road tracks. While newer competitors may feel quieter or more refined, the Colorado still delivers the rugged capability buyers expect from a traditional dual-cab ute.

Verdict: Strong diesel torque, proven reliability and capable four-wheel-drive hardware make the Colorado an excellent all-round workhorse.

One of the Colorado LTZ's biggest strengths has always been its towing capability. Like many of its key rivals, it offers a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500kg, making it suitable for large caravans, horse floats, boats and work trailers.

Combined with its healthy 500Nm torque output and approximately 1,000kg payload, the Colorado is well suited to buyers who regularly tow heavy loads while still carrying tools, camping gear or passengers. Many used examples are already fitted with genuine tow bars, electric brake controllers and canopies, making them even more attractive on the used market.

The chassis feels stable under load and the suspension has been tuned specifically for Australian conditions, helping maintain confidence on long country drives.

Verdict: A genuinely capable tow vehicle that still competes well against many modern dual-cab utes.

Official combined fuel consumption sits at 8.7L/100km, which was competitive for a dual-cab diesel of its era. Real-world consumption generally falls between 9 and 10L/100km during everyday driving, with figures increasing when towing or travelling off-road.

The generous 76-litre fuel tank provides respectable touring range, particularly useful for regional travel where fuel stops may be further apart. Although newer diesel engines and hybrid utes have improved efficiency, the Colorado remains relatively economical considering its size and capability.

The engine also benefits from widespread parts availability and a long history of reliable servicing across Australia.

Verdict: Not class-leading by today's standards, but still respectable for a traditional diesel ute.

The LTZ specification gives the Colorado a noticeably more premium feel than lower grades. Leather-appointed seats, heated front seats, an electrically adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone climate control and an 8-inch MyLink infotainment system create a cabin that's comfortable for both commuting and long-distance touring.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard via a wired connection, while satellite navigation and a seven-speaker sound system add convenience for everyday driving. Storage throughout the cabin is generous, with plenty of space for drinks, phones, tools and travel essentials.

The overall design is straightforward and easy to use, favouring large physical buttons over touchscreen-only controls. While the dashboard plastics feel harder than those found in newer competitors such as the Ford Ranger or Volkswagen Amarok, everything is solidly assembled and built to withstand years of use.

Rear-seat accommodation is also generous for adults, making the Colorado practical as both a family vehicle and a work ute.

Verdict: Comfortable, practical and durable, with plenty of features that continue to hold up well on the used market.

The Colorado has aged surprisingly well. Its muscular proportions, wide stance and traditional dual-cab styling still give it plenty of road presence without appearing overly aggressive.

The LTZ adds attractive 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior detailing, side steps, roof rails and LED daytime running lights, giving it a more premium appearance than work-focused variants. The large tray also offers excellent practicality for tradies, campers and recreational users.

Unlike some newer utes that lean heavily into bold styling, the Colorado remains understated and purposeful—a design that continues to appeal to many used buyers.

Verdict: Clean, tough styling that still looks at home on Australian roads and worksites.

For its time, the Colorado LTZ came well equipped with driver assistance features including:

• Forward Collision Alert
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Reversing camera
• Rear parking sensors
• Hill Start Assist
• Hill Descent Control
• Electronic Stability Control
• Six airbags

The Colorado received a 5-star ANCAP safety rating under the 2016 testing protocols.

The biggest omission by today's standards is Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which wasn't fitted across the Colorado range when many rivals had already begun introducing it. While the warning systems provide useful assistance, buyers prioritising the latest active safety technology may find newer alternatives more appealing.

That said, the Colorado still delivers solid occupant protection and includes many features buyers expect in a modern dual-cab.

Verdict: Good safety equipment for its era, although the absence of AEB is worth considering.