Holden Colorado lives on in Brazil with new off-road updates

It may be long gone from New Zealand showrooms, but the Holden Colorado is still alive and on sale in South America.

While Holden shut down local operations in 2020, taking the Colorado with it, the same basic ute continues on sale in Brazil under a different name, where General Motors has just updated the model with a fresh special edition.

Known as the Chevrolet S10, the Colorado’s twin rides on the same underpinnings as the previous-generation model once sold in New Zealand. Despite newer Colorado-badged replacements arriving in the United States, Brazil is sticking with the older architecture and continuing to upgrade it.

The latest version brings rugged new variants including the S10 Trail Boss, alongside a matching version of the Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV, once sold locally as the Holden Trailblazer. Both models are based on the top-spec 'High Country' grades offered in Brazil, but add off-road-focused improvements.

Key changes include a revised suspension setup developed with Ironman 4×4 and recalibrated electronics. The S10 gains a 30mm front lift, while the Trailblazer is raised by 18mm at the front and 30mm at the rear. All-terrain tyres and visual tweaks such as a blacked-out grille, dark alloy wheels, and unique trim elements round out the package.

Inside, the ageing platform has been kept relatively modern. Both models feature an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, and leather-appointed upholstery. The Trailblazer continues to offer seven seats across three rows.

Under the bonnet, the Brazilian-market models retain a familiar unit. Power comes from a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder producing 154kW of power and 510Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

That’s a notable contrast to the latest US-market Colorado, which has moved to petrol power and an all-new platform. In Brazil, however, GM is proving there’s still life left in the 2.8-litre diesel that once powered Holden Colorado utes in New Zealand.

The Holden Colorado and Trailblazer were on sale in New Zealand until the end of 2020. The ute remained a steady seller right up until Holden’s exit, competing with stalwarts like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.