GM unveils diesel 2016 Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon with all the 2.8L Duramax details (PHOTOS)

Updated Aug 6, 2015
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Nearly two years after unveiling the redesigned Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon and announcing the midsize pickups would eventually gain a diesel option, General Motors has released all the details about the Duramax engine that will power the latest models.

The 2016 Colorado/Canyon’s 2.8L Duramax produces 181 hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque.The 2016 Colorado/Canyon’s 2.8L Duramax produces 181 hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque.

Beyond the Colorado’s commercial and critical successes, the coming diesel option has buoyed excitement around both of GM’s midsize trucks since their redesign was unveiled in 2013.

With these new 2016 models, Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon buyers will have the option of upgrading to a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel. The turbocharged engine produces 181 horsepower at 3,400 rpm and 369 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm.

The diesel engine will be available with 2WD or 4WD on Colorado crew cabs in LT and Z71 trims and on Canyon SLE and SLT crew cabs.

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The Duramax’s boost in power increases the trucks’ maximum trailering capacity to 7,700 pounds—700 more than when equipped with the 3.6-liter V6. Gross vehicle weight rating has increased as well to 6,000 pounds on 2WD models and to 6,200 pounds on 4WD models.

The option will up the price of both trucks by $3,730 and will be available with the 2016 models this fall.

And though GM did not share exact fuel numbers, the diesel engine is expected to up the midsize trucks’ already segment-best 27 miles per gallon highway even higher.

The standard pairing for the Duramax will be a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission. Also standard are a trailering package, including a hitch receiver and seven-pin connector, and a 3.42 rear axle ratio with G80 automatic locking rear differential.

When equipped with the Duramax, the trucks will also feature a smart diesel exhaust brake system that GM says enhances vehicle control and reduces brake wear on steep grades.

Here’s GM’s full listing of the 2.8-liter Duramax’s features:

Additional engine features:

  • Iron cylinder block and aluminum DOHC cylinder head
  • Forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods
  • Oiling circuit that includes a dedicated feed for the turbocharger to provide increased pressure at the turbo and faster oil delivery
  • Piston-cooling oil jets
  • 16.5:1 compression ratio
  • Common rail direct injection fuel system
  • Ceramic glow plugs for shorter heat-up times and higher glow temperatures
  • Balance shaft that contributes to smoothness and drives the oil pump
  • Laminated steel oil pan with upper aluminum section that contributes to engine rigidity and quietness
  • B20 bio-diesel capability