New 2017 Holden Colorado breaks cover

Holden has released first details of its new 2017 Colorado pick-up, ahead of the model's public debut in Sydney at this evening's (July 13) State of Origin rugby league match.

Previously revealed three months ago in Brazil – and wearing Chevrolet badges – the latest Colorado shares the same ladder-frame chassis, engine and drivetrain as its predecessor, but boasts new styling and a raft of new technology.

The newcomer features a slimmer grille, a more muscular bonnet and LED daytime running lights, the look delivering a modern progression while retaining its American pick-up truck DNA.

Despite already achieving a five-star ANCAP rating, the Colorado has received a significant boost when it comes to safety, with higher-spec offerings gaining forward collision alert and lane departure warning. Front and rear parking assist is also offered, while a rear-view camera is now standard across the Colorado range.

Meanwhile, cabin occupants now benefit from refinements such as the new Holden MyLink infotainment system with new seven-inch or eight-inch touch screens, also incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is now standard, and also features Bluetooth streaming, digital radio and voice commands (via the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto).

High-spec models also receive integrated satellite navigation and voice-command facility, while Holden lists remote window activation as another highlight – a feature sure to be well received in hotter parts of the country.

Holden says it's also stepped things up with its range of factory Colorado accessories, many of which have been inspired by the Aussie designed and built Colorado Xtreme show truck that debuted in Thailand in March. From snorkels to bash plates, fender flares to side steps, bullbars to nudge bars, Holden says it's now offering more factory accessories than ever before.

Holden's Executive Director – Sales, Peter Keley, said the new model would enhance the Colorado's standing significantly.

"Colorado has resonated well with customers in a segment that has almost doubled in sales in the last 10 years, and we're confident the new 2017 Colorado will build on this and redefine customer expectations of what a truck can be," he said.

Holden's four-wheel drive Colorado accounted for 8397 registrations in the first half of 2016, for a market share of 11.1 per cent.

That sees it slot into fourth place behind the class-dominating Toyota HiLux (20.4 per cent), Ford's hard-charging Ranger (20.1 per cent) and Mitsubishi's value-packed Triton (13.3 per cent), but ahead of other rivals such as Nissan's Narava (9.5 per cent), Isuzu's D-Max (7.2 per cent), Mazda's BT-50 (6.8 per cent) and Volkswagen's Amarok (6.0 per cent).

Holden is yet to confirm the pricing and model line-up for the new Colorado, but has said the model will go on sale at Holden dealerships around the country from September 1.