For the first time ever, Chevrolet has seen fit to put a V-8 engine in a compact truck. Although offered in only the Extended and Crew Cab models, the 2009 Colorado (along with its nearly identical sibling, the GMC Canyon) is now available with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine producing 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque--bringing a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and sub-seven-second 0-60 acceleration. The new engine is mated to Chevrolet's smooth, reliable four-speed automatic transmission.