My son bought a new 2008 Chevy Colorado back in Nov., 2008. He put on around 130K . He had the 5 cylinder engine, AT, Z-71 off road suspension , locking axle. It was a 2WD....but with the high ground clearance and both a mechanical locker (Eaton) and an electronic traction control he never got stuck.
BTW, we live in an area that experiences winter from late October/early November till late March/early April. We get a number of prairie blizzards...snow never leaves, doesn't melt like it does in many other winter climates. It comes early, stays late, stays cold. Tonight for example the low is forecast at -35.
The Colorado was always parked outside, mostly without access to a plug, sometimes 10-12 hours. Never failed to start....in this extreme winter climate.
Two things went wrong in the 6 years he had it. A speaker started sounding crackly and a hose started dripping. The dealer tightened up the hose clamp and that fixed it.
That 5 cylinder DOHC was a great engine. Nice power throughout the rpm, not bad MPG.
I get a chuckle out of some who dismiss the old Colorado. I think in some cases they denigrate it, because it has a bow tie on the front of the grille.
He had the extended cab...one of the few vehicles with enough leg room for me. I'm a big guy and have a screwed up 'hockey' knee...I need to be able to stretch out.
He got it because he didn't want a full size truck. He looked at the Ranger and although not bad, he wanted more cab room in a mid size.
He traded it in after 6 years, as he likes to have factory warranty with his vehicle.
Unlike many, he's not brand loyal. Always willing to give a different make a chance.
He got a new Jeep SUV...a Patriot. It has 4WD and the Trail Rated package. So far, so good, really likes it.
So not everybody wants a full size vehicle....mid size or compact suits them and their needs fine.