The Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks will offer a diesel engine option for the 2016 model year, a General Motors spokesperson has confirmed.

The automaker initially announced that it had expected to make the diesel available during its initial unveiling to the press.  

"Colorado will offer the segment's only diesel engine in its second year – a proven Duramax 2.8L I-4 turbo diesel already offered in global markets. The diesel engine will expand Colorado’s powertrain lineup to cover the broadest range of needs," Robert Wheeler, communications manager of fleet and commercial, told Automotive Fleet.

Wheeler said that the increasing interest in fuel economy from both the consumer and fleet markets is among the reasons the Colorado amd Canyon will be offered with the Duramax diesel engine. "The increased fuel economy paired with the horsepower and torque available in this small displacement engine makes it a perfect pairing for the Colorado," he added.

The Colorado will be outfitted with a 2.5L I-4 engine as standard, which produces 193 hp at 184 lb.-ft. of torque. A 3.6L V-6, which produces 302 hp at 270 lb.-ft. of torque, will also be available.

Other than it being included as an option for the MY-2016 model,  the exact date of the availability of the Duramax diesel option has yet to be announced.

By Chris Wolski