Best Exhaust Guide for Holden Colorado
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The Holden Colorado is a proper workhorse. Whether you're running it on the daily, towing a trailer on weekends or pushing it hard on corrugated outback tracks it's a truck that earns its keep. But if you've ever felt like it's holding back a little a bit sluggish off the line a bit flat under load there's a good chance the factory exhaust is part of the problem.
Aftermarket exhaust upgrades are one of the most effective bolt on modifications you can make to a diesel 4x4. Better flow, better response and better sound. At Outback Exhausts we've built systems specifically for the Colorado lineup from the older RC generation right through to the later RG models and in this guide we'll walk you through exactly what's available and how to choose the right one for your truck.
Why Upgrade Your Holden Colorado Exhaust?
The factory exhaust on the Colorado is built to a budget and designed to meet a broad set of requirements across multiple markets. That means it's conservative by design. Here's what a quality aftermarket system actually delivers:
- Improved exhaust flow — mandrel bent stainless steel tubing eliminates the restrictive crush bends in the OEM system letting your turbo diesel breathe properly under load.
- Better throttle response — reduced back pressure means your engine doesn't have to fight its own exhaust which translates to a more responsive and confident drive.
- More torque where you need it — improved scavenging helps the turbo spool faster which is exactly what you want when you're towing or climbing a steep track.
- A proper exhaust note — deep, purposeful and refined. Not a rasp not a drone just the sound a diesel 4x4 should make.
- Long-term durability — our systems are built from 409 stainless steel and backed by a 5year warranty.
Which Holden Colorado Do You Have?
The Colorado has gone through two distinct generations in Australia and the exhaust system that fits one won't fit the other. Before you buy it's important to identify your variant. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Colorado RC (2007–2012) — The first generation Colorado sold in Australia. Powered by the 3.0L 4JJ1 turbo diesel. Two sub variants exist based on build date (pre and post 2010) with different exhaust routing.
- Colorado RG (2012–2020) — The second generation Colorado with a significantly revised platform. Powered by the 2.8L Duramax (LWN) turbo diesel. Post 2016 models added a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) which changes the exhaust upgrade options.
- Colorado 7 (2012–2016) — The wagon body variant of the RG platform. Shares the 2.8L Duramax engine but has a different body and exhaust routing to the Ute.
Getting the right fit matters. Our systems are engineered as direct bolt on replacements for each specific variant no cutting, no welding and no guesswork.
Our Holden Colorado Exhaust Systems
1. Turbo Back Exhaust — Holden Colorado RC 3.0L 4JJ1 (2007–2010)
Built for the early RC Colorado with the 3.0L 4JJ1 diesel. This turbo back system replaces everything from the turbo outlet back giving you maximum flow improvement across the entire exhaust system. If you're running an early RC and want the most complete upgrade available this is it.
View the RC Colorado Turbo Back Exhaust (2007–2010) →
2. Turbo Back Exhaust — Holden Colorado RC 3.0L 4JJ1 (2010–2012)
The post 2010 RC Colorado received updated exhaust routing which means the earlier system won't fit. Our 2010–2012 specific turbo back is engineered to match the revised layout exactly same premium 409 stainless steel construction, same mandrel bends and same performance gains. If you're on a later RC this is your system.
View the RC Colorado Turbo Back Exhaust (2010–2012) →
3. Turbo Back Exhaust — Holden Colorado RG 2.8L Duramax (2012–2016)
The RG generation brought a completely new platform and the 2.8L Duramax engine one of the best diesel units ever fitted to an Australian 4x4. Our turbo back system for the pre-DPF RG replaces everything from the turbo outlet back and delivers a meaningful improvement in flow, response and sound. A popular choice for RG owners who want the full upgrade.
View the RG Colorado Turbo Back Exhaust (2012–2016) →
4. DPF Back Exhaust — Holden Colorado RG 2.8L Duramax (2016–On)
From 2016 the RG Colorado came with a factory DPF fitted. That changes the upgrade path a turbo back system isn't the right choice here. Our DPF back system replaces everything from the DPF outlet back, giving you improved flow and a better exhaust note while keeping the DPF in place. It's the correct upgrade for post 2016 RG owners.
View the RG Colorado DPF Back Exhaust (2016–On) →
5. Turbo Back Exhaust — Holden Colorado 7 2.8L Duramax (2012–2016)
The Colorado 7 shares the RG's 2.8L Duramax engine but the wagon body means a different exhaust routing. Our Colorado 7 specific turbo back is engineered for that exact layout direct bolt on and no modifications required. If you're running a Colorado 7 and want the full turbo back upgrade, this is the one.
View the Colorado 7 Turbo Back Exhaust (2012–2016) →
Want to browse the full range in one place? View all Holden Colorado Exhaust Systems →
Holden Colorado Exhaust System Comparison
Not sure which system is right for your Colorado? Here's a side by side breakdown to make it easy:
| Exhaust System | Engine Fit | Pipe Size | Best For | Key Benefit | View Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbo Back — RC Colorado | 3.0L 4JJ1 (RC 2007–2010) | 3 inch | Early RC owners wanting maximum flow from turbo outlet back | Full system upgrade, mandrel bent 409 SS, improved turbo response | View → |
| Turbo Back — RC Colorado | 3.0L 4JJ1 (RC 2010–2012) | 3 inch | Later RC owners with revised exhaust routing | Variant-specific fitment, full turbo back flow gains, 5year warranty | View → |
| Turbo Back — RG Colorado | 2.8L Duramax (RG 2012–2016) | 3 inch | Pre-DPF RG owners wanting the full turbo-back upgrade | Maximum flow improvement, deep diesel note. | View → |
| DPF Back — RG Colorado | 2.8L Duramax (RG 2016–On) | 3 inch | Post-2016 RG owners keeping DPF in place | DPF-compliant upgrade, improved flow from DPF back, better exhaust note | View → |
| Turbo Back — Colorado 7 | 2.8L Duramax (Colorado 7 2012–2016) | 3 inch | Colorado 7 wagon owners wanting a full turbo-back system | Wagon-specific routing, direct bolt-on, full exhaust flow gains | View → |
Turbo Back vs DPF Back — What's the Difference?
This is the most common question we get from Colorado owners and it's an important one to get right.
A turbo back system replaces everything from the turbo outlet all the way back to the tip. It's the most comprehensive exhaust upgrade you can do and delivers the biggest improvement in flow and performance. It's the right choice for pre DPF Colorado's (RC models and pre 2016 RG models).
A DPF back system replaces everything from the DPF outlet back. It's the correct upgrade for post 2016 RG Colorado's that came with a factory DPF. Our DPF back system gives you real performance and sound improvements while keeping everything compliant.
The bottom line: always confirm your build date and whether your Colorado has a DPF before ordering. If you're not sure, get in touch and we'll help you identify the right system.
RC vs RG — What's the Difference?
The RC (2007–2012) and RG (2012–2020) are completely different platforms. Different engines, different chassis, different exhaust routing. The RC runs the 3.0L 4JJ1 diesel while the RG uses the more modern 2.8L Duramax. The systems are not interchangeable always confirm your generation before ordering.
Browse by generation:
- Holden Colorado Exhaust Systems →
- Holden Colorado 7 Exhaust Systems →
- All Holden 4x4 Exhaust Systems →
Installation: What to Expect
All our Colorado exhaust systems are designed as direct bolt-on replacements. A competent home mechanic with a basic set of tools can typically complete the install in 1–2 hours. If you'd prefer a professional fit any exhaust shop or 4x4 specialist can handle it. We recommend having the system fitted on a hoist for easier access to the underside mounting points.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Colorado has a DPF?
Post 2016 RG Colorado models came with a factory DPF as standard. If your Colorado was built after mid 2016, it almost certainly has one. You can also check under the vehicle the DPF is a large canister located in the exhaust system between the turbo and the muffler. If you're unsure get in touch and we'll help you confirm.
Can I install the exhaust myself?
Yes. Our systems are direct bolt-on replacements requiring no cutting or welding. A competent home mechanic with basic tools can typically complete the install in 1–2 hours. We recommend using a hoist for easier access to the underside mounting points.
What material are the exhaust systems made from?
All our Holden Colorado exhaust systems are built from 409 stainless steel with mandrel bends. Every system is backed by a 5year warranty.
What's the difference between the RC 2007–2010 and 2010–2012 systems?
The post 2010 RC Colorado received updated exhaust routing which means the two systems are not interchangeable. Always confirm your build date before ordering if you're between the two, check your compliance plate or get in touch and we'll help you identify the right fit.
Ready to Upgrade?
Whether you're running an early RC, a pre-DPF RG, a post-2016 RG or a Colorado 7, we've got a system built specifically for your truck. All our Holden Colorado exhausts are engineered in Australia, built from premium 409 stainless steel and backed by a 5year warranty.
Browse All Holden Colorado Exhaust Systems →
Not sure which system suits your build? Get in touch with our team — we're happy to help you find the right fit before you buy.
