First Impressions

The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is one four-wheel drive pickup truck that’s clearly designed to go off the beaten path. Chevy’s ZR2 badge dates back to the 1990’s when it was worn by S-10 pick-ups and Blazers. 

First seen in concept form at the 20-14 LA Auto Show, there are noticeable differences from its more sedate siblings. The ZR2 rides 2 inches higher, with 3-and-a-half-inch wider front and rear tracks.

You expect a lot of road noise from a lifted truck with all-terrain tires, but we found it was impressively quiet inside. Plus, while it’s designed for off-road from tip to tail, the on-road ride was quite comfortable. 

Grille and hood are unique to the ZR2, with skid plates for the radiator, oil pan, and transfer case. Even the bumpers are modified for easier maneuverability around obstacles.

We were among the first to take the ZR2 on a desert run near Grand Junction, Colorado.

ZACH MASKELL: “It’s already very impressive how car like this is out here. I mean obviously you’re on dirt, you haven’t forgotten that, but just the vehicle dynamics in this is something else, I’ve never experienced”

JOHN DAVIS: Standard power is Colorado’s 3.6-liter gas V6 with 308 horsepower, 275 lb-ft of torque, and an 8-speed automatic. But, the optional 2.8-liter Duramax I4 Turbo-Diesel pushes torque to 369 lb-ft with 186 horsepower, all through a 6-speed auto.

Standard too are electronic-locking front and rear differentials, and Chevy says this is the first time high-performance damper technology is being used on an off-road truck. That coupled with what we thought was very concise steering, made this a blast for dirt driving.

The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is on sale now starting under $41,000.