Holden Colorado LPG 2011 Review

Price Guide (recommended price before statutory & delivery charges): $35,990
Options fitted to test car (not included in above price): Dual Fuel (LPG) system $3850, Tow Kit $700
Crash rating: Three-star (ANCAP)
Fuel: 91 RON ULP / LPG
Claimed fuel economy (L/100km): 12.8 (ULP) / 17.2 (LPG)
CO2 emissions (g/km): 306 (ULP) / 276 (LPG)
Also consider:  Ford Ranger, Great Wall V240, Isuzu D-MAX, Mazda BT-50, Mahindra Pik-Up, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara, Ssangyong Actyon Sports, Toyota HiLux, Volkswagen Amarok

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Holden has added another string to Colorado's bow this year with the introduction of a factory-fitted dual-fuel (petrol/LPG) system to its V6-powered light commercial range.

With many direct rivals now offering diesel-only variants, Colorado not only offers buyers more choice, but a realistic cost saving alternative against the often dearer purchase price of turbodiesel variants, even within its own model line-up.

As part of Holden's expanding Ecoline range, Colorado's three-mode dual-fuel system is available on the single-cab LX, dual-cab LX (as tested) and dual-cab LT-R offering a 56-litre and 76-litre LPG tank respectively between the two configurations. The additions take the total number of Colorado variants available to 26.

On four-door models the LPG system does come at the detriment of the spare wheel well; the spare relocated to the headboard, somewhat reducing cargo space. Maximum braked towing capacity is also trimmed by 500kg (to 2500kg) on LPG variants.

Legacy character traits and fit out are the same as other same spec'ed Colorados in the range with the drive experience pleasingly unchanged. The only obvious differences for the LPG-powered model are engine specifications, badges and a small dashboard-mounted switch that takes care of fuel sourcing as well as indicating how much LPG is left in the tank via four LEDs (pictured).

Petrol and LPG can be selected manually or, when left in gas mode, will automatically and seamlessly switch to petrol for starting for approximately 45 seconds. Holden recommends switching manually to petrol if higher performance is required for extended periods.

Motivation comes courtesy of Holden's 3.6-litre Alloytec V6, as found previously in Commodore, which when tuned for LPG delivers 155kW/300Nm (2kW and 13Nm less than dedicated Colorado petrol models). Power is delivered later and torque earlier than petrol models, but otherwise the engine offers smooth and steady acceleration through to 5500rpm.

Using the quoted figures (see above) Colorado should achieve a 400km cruising range on LPG and a further 600km on petrol. On test, the Colorado LX Crew Cab 4x2 LPG achieved a combined range of 840km.

If the Colorado is run exclusively on LPG, an average 100km journey should cost you around $10.50 based on this week's LPG price of 61.3 cents per litre. Pitted against a turbodiesel Colorado, that's a $2.70 saving over the same distance. Over the life of vehicle, and considering a difference in (same trim) list price of $5650, the long-term savings are considerable.

Depending on your carrying requirements, and access to LPG, the dual-fuel Colorado is a viable alternative for those chasing a cheaper fuel bill. The system worked flawlessly despite often trying conditions and delivered performance very nearly on par with its petrol sibling.

Holden's dual-fuel system is backed by a comprehensive factory warranty and is eligible for state government rebates of up to $2000.

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