Chevrolet Releases Official Sketch and Name for 2004 Colorado
By: Michael LevinePosted: 05-07-02 23:30

General Motors has released an official rendering of the 2004 Colorado, clearly revealing the new Chevy truck family look on the successor to the current S-10 compact pickup, while also confirming its name and growth in size.

In the GM press release Russ Clark, Chevrolet marketing director for mid-size trucks said, "We wanted a name that would fit within the Chevy Truck portfolio and stand out in the marketplace...and has a strong presence." This confirms what PUTC had reported over a year ago when we revealed the Colorado name.

Strong presence indeed. The Colorado appears to have a front end with character even stronger than that of the Chevrolet Avalanche, which kicked off the new aggressive look in Chevy's truck lineup.

You will notice the lower headlamps, in proportion to the upper lamps, are quire a bit larger on the Colorado and the front bumper has more inlets for air intake. Though not apparent in the sketch, like the Avalanche, the Colorado's grille is plastic mesh above and below the Chevy bow tie. Also notice the step just to the front of the right rear wheel. It should help Colorado owners in loading, unloading and stepping into the truck's bed. It's a styling cue that first appeared on the Chevy Fox Cycle Concept truck at SEMA in 2000.

Also note Mr. Clark's title contains the word 'mid-size', confirming that the Colorado grow in stature to be similar in size to the Dodge Dakota.

Look for an official reveal of the Colorado possibly as early as the 2002 SEMA show this November or most likely in January or February 2003 at the Detroit or Chicago Auto Shows.