[Thai market 2012 Chevrolet Colorado pictured above]

This just in: General Motors officially confirmed plans to build and sell a version of its brand-new Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck in the United States.

Last week, the Detroit-based automaker launched the production version of the new Colorado mid-size pickup truck in Thailand and has plans to sell it in other regions around the globe including Australia where it will be marketed under the Holden nameplate.

“The new Chevrolet Colorado is generating a lot of excitement as we begin its launch in Thailand,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global marketing and strategy for Chevrolet. “We think the design, capability and fuel efficiency of the new Colorado will make it attractive to U.S. customers.”

The General said that product details, timing, pricing and the production location will be announced at a late date. However, toward the end of September, the company revealed plans to build an unnamed new mid-size pickup truck at its Missouri plant, which points to the new Colorado.

In Thailand, which is the world’s largest market for midsize pickup trucks, the Colorado will be offered in 2WD and 4WD regular, extended-cab and crew cab variants, with engine options to include both gasoline and diesel units.

GM said that its engineers will “tailor the truck to meet local needs” in major markets.

“For example, Chevrolet Colorado Chief Engineer Roberto Rempel and his team lived in Thailand during the Colorado’s development,” said Brad Merkel, global vehicle line executive. “They immersed themselves in the highly competitive truck market and observed how the Thai people use their vehicles and the driving conditions they experience.

“A similar development process will precede the launch of the truck in the U.S. market,” said Merkel. “We think American customers will be pleased with the results.”

Look for the new U.S. market Colorado making its North American debut in either showcar or final production form at an upcoming auto show, perhaps as early as this November in L.A. or in January 2012 in Detroit.

PHOTO GALLERY

– THAI MARKET CHEVROLET COLORADO