Chevy backs Colorado's new, powerful V6 with an 8-speed automatic for 2017

The mid-size pickup truck market is heating up with several new, compelling entrants in the last year. And — thanks to Chevy — starting later this year, the mid-size segment is getting both more powerful and more efficient.

SEE ALSO: Thieves steal $250,000 worth of wheels at Texas dealership

Chevrolet announced Friday morning that it is bolting up a new 308-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine, which is backed by GM's 8-speed automatic transmission, to the 2017 Colorado mid-size pickup truck.

Not only will drivers notice a bit more oomph off the line, thanks to the engine's fuel-saving technologies, they should also notice improved economy as well. What's more, the curb weight remains the same — even with the new power plant and transmission onboard.

"Drivers will immediately notice that it pulls harder when accelerating from a stop or passing on the highway," said Stan Ludlow, chief engineer for the 2017 Colorado. "It is more confident pulling a trailer up a steep grade and it is more refined cruising at a constant highway speed.”

Customers keen to check out the improved 2017 Colorado should look to their dealers in the last quarter of 2017, as that is when the trucks are anticipated to hit showrooms.