Living proof that this Colorado...
Living proof that this Colorado has had a Vette heart transplant is in plain view in this image. The main sensory input you're missing is the sound waves of the tire-frying 365ci engine pushing out the tones that can only be produced by the Heartbeat of America.
Many auto manufacturers have used musclecar glory days to market their new vehicles. For the most part, these new-breed passenger vehicles stand in the shadows of their name branding. This isn't the case with GM's SS-series power players. We found GM touting its SS TrailBlazer, sporting the new LS2 6.0L motor. For the GM all-aluminum-constructed engine with 10.9:1 compression, GM recommends you run 91 octane fuel, but it's not required. Of course, if you want to use every bit of the LS2's 395 hp or 400 lb-ft of torque, you'd better stick 91 in the tank.
We'll save the discussion of ridiculous price-gouging for a totally different story. But, with alternative fuels and power sources on the horizon, it's great to see that GM's not afraid to provide consumers with what they want-power. GM also had its Colorado SS concept truck out for display. This Colorado was equipped with the early version of the LS-series engines. Even though the older modular motor only has 346 cubic inches in comparison to the 365 in the TrailBlazer, this hauler has an incredible pucker factor.
Both the LS and LT packages...
Both the LS and LT packages can be built with the SS badging and all the benefit that comes with it.
Only vehicles that have been...
Only vehicles that have been gone over with a fine-tooth comb are given the GM Performance Division stamp of approval. Any vehicle that bears this mark is a true power-toting warrior.
We're told GM's on the fence about putting the midsize hauler to production with either of the LS-series modular engines. We're hoping GM sees that catering a V-8 to a vehicle that is more mommy-based is missing the market by not catering power to a vehicle that would be more prone to hauling. Not to mention, guys who love trucks and power are less concerned about gas prices. After seeing the Colorado SS in action, we're even more anxious to inspire GM to make the V-8 midsize a dealer showroom figure.
A set of 20-inch SS polished...
A set of 20-inch SS polished aluminum wheels is a standard on the TrailBlazer SS. The original SS concept didn't possess a six-blade rim like the TrailBlazer has been equipped with, but the aluminum construction and air venting styling helps cool the brakes and adds to the sport factor on all the SS models.
GM reached back in its musclecar...
GM reached back in its musclecar era for this SS hauler. An air-induction system, tailored straight from the '70 SS Chevelle platform, provides cool air from the windscreen. At high speeds, the windscreen will build air pressure at its base. This pressure will help the pistons fill the engine's cylinders through the air induction ducts.
Five-blade SS wheels give...
Five-blade SS wheels give the Colorado concept truck that SS look and also keep the styling closer to the original SS Sierra concept.
Will GM put the Colorado SS...
Will GM put the Colorado SS on the list of production vehicles? We're not sure, but it gives us something to hope for.
This engine fits so well in...
This engine fits so well in the Colorado it looks like the LS2 6.0L was the motor originally used to design the Colorado's engine compartment.