Holden Colorado LS-X 2016 Review

Holden Colorado LS-X
Quick Spin

What’s it all about?
The new Colorado is almost here, but with stock of the current model available, we figured now was a good time to take a look at what it has to offer – and quantify some of the things we do and don’t like.

In the spotlight is the run-out Colorado LS-X, a dual-cab 4WD variant based on the entry-grade LS. Included in the price is an automatic transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, alloy sports bar, bonnet protector, carpet and foglights.

How much will it cost?
$37,990 drive-away, no more to pay. That price includes Holden’s torquey 147kW/500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and the aforementioned six-speed auto.

The dual-cab Colorado gets a five-star ANCAP rating and includes six airbags in addition to the usual array of electronic chassis controls, trailer-sway control and a hill holder.

The Colorado has a three-year/100,000km warranty and 12-months of included roadside assistance, while service intervals are pegged at nine months/15,000km. The Colorado LS-X also includes three years free servicing.

Why should I buy it?
It’s not the quietest or smoothest diesel-powered workhorse, yet the Colorado’s big ‘four’ works quite well with its six-speed auto in most scenarios. There’s plenty of overtaking power and enough grunt for serious towing (3500kg braked).

And it’s pretty economical. On test we managed 8.8L/100km against a claim of 7.9.

Once cruising the Colorado is reasonably quiet. It handles OK, but the ride is quite firm. The steering awfully slow, and the 12.7m turning circle barge-like.

Inside, there’s space for five on supportive seats and myriad stowage cubbies and drink-holders. The quality of materials and fit and finish is, however, a bit of a letdown, as is the awkward MyLink infotainment system which does not include a reversing camera.

When is it available in Australia?
The LS-X went on sale as a regular addition to the Colorado range in May 2016. It will be available until stock runs out.

If you’re prepared to strike a deal, we reckon you could save a few bucks… Or wait until September 1 for the arrival of the all-new model.

Who will it appeal to?
One-tonne 4WD utes are traditionally tools of trade.

But there is growing popularity amongst recreational four-wheel drivers, grey nomads, and even family buyers with a thirst for weekend adventure. A shame about that reversing camera…

Where does it fit?
Its older design means the Colorado feels quite basic when viewed against its peers.

As our recent 4WD Dual-Cab Comparison showed, the Colorado is out-classed by segment leaders including the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok, as well as big named like the Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara and Isuzu D-MAX.

Across the range, the Colorado’s pricing also ranks toward the top of the tree, a point we’ll watch with interest upon the new model’s arrival.

So, what do we think?
A tad primitive and lacking in a couple of areas, the Colorado LS-X nevertheless ticks most of the boxes expected of the segment. Its drive-away pricing also improves its value equation.

Conversely, with a new model imminent, we reckon you’d do well to wait. After all, the Colorado LS-X is a four-year old ute and in many ways is showing its age.

2016 Holden Colorado LS-X pricing and specifications:
Price: $37,990 (drive-away)
Engine: 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Output: 147kW/500Nm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Fuel: 8.8L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 236g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

Also consider:
>> Ford Ranger (from $44,290 plus ORCs)
>> Toyota HiLux (from $43,990 plus ORCs)
>> Mitsubishi Triton (from $36,990 plus ORCs)

Related reading:
>> 4WD Dual-Cab Ute Comparison