Turns out the new Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, first developed for Thailand, will go on sale in America after all.

The Colorado’s design is too good not to be available in the pickup-loving American market. The U.S. version however will be different, a bit, than the one going on sale on the other end of the globe.

It will be produced in Shreveport, La., through the 2012 model year. Product details, timing, pricing and the production location will be announced later.

The Thai version will be powered by new 2.5L and 2.8L turbo diesel engines and its lineup will include 2WD and 4WD regular, extended-cab and crew cab variants. Engine availability for U.S. versions will be announced at a future date.

“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.”

“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.”