Oct 18, 2018

Red 2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 in Burien, WA | Burien ChevroletHave you heard the buzz around your local Chevy showroom? The 2019 Colorado ZR2 is already making a stir around the country as the ultimate rock-climber. The engineers over at General Motors upped this highly capable trailblazer’s four-wheeling prowess, and gave it a fierce exterior that looks good too. Keep reading to unearth the top three features that make the new midsize Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 a beast on the trails.

  1. Added AEV Protection 

The Colorado ZR2 will get a major refresh in January, thanks to the first-ever partnership between Chevrolet and American Expedition Vehicles, an aftermarket parts specialist. Its appeal comes from AEV’s extensive contribution of parts, designed to protect the truck as it moves through even the most unfriendly terrain. 

Outdoor adventurers will appreciate the Colorado’s durable, steel skid plates made from Boron steel. The last thing you want 50 miles from civilization is a puncture hole in your gas tank. These five hot-stamped plates protect your truck’s fuel tank, engine oil pan, and transfer case.

The Colorado is equipped with both front and rear locking differentials — a class-exclusive in this competitive truck segment. Good thing they’re covered in steel too. A uniquely designed front bumper is equipped with fog lights and winch provisions, all standard, while the back bumper comes stocked with integrated recovery points.

Chevy went so far as to add the optional add-on third-party accessory: the AEV snorkel. This distinctive air intake system is ideal for overland explorers whose journey includes deep water crossings.

  1. Power and Performance 

Colorado ZR2 Bison is named after the buffalo that roam the plains of eastern Colorado. That name evokes the perfect imagery, since this truck is the new symbol of ruggedness. It comes powered by a V-6 gas engine under the hood, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rumor has it the Bison is also available with an optional 2.8-liter Duramax diesel motor.

The 2019 ZR2 rides high on Goodyear’s Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires, size: 31-inches. This set of rubber is a staple in the off-road arena and is wrapped around the Bison’s exclusive 17- by 8-inch bead-locking, aluminum wheels.

To accommodate these huge tires, Chevy gave the Colorado larger fender flares and beefed up the clearance. We expect this trail dominating Bison to utilize this extra height quite frequently.

  1. Stock Performance Accessories

The ZR2 Bison is expected to retain some of its top features and accessories through this upgrade, including rocker protection, an Autotrac transfer case, and cast-iron control arms. You’ll have a choice of either the crew or extended cab configurations, paired up with a short or long bed, respectively.

You’ll also get Multimatic’s DSSV dynamic suspension dampers, and more air flow through the redesigned grille. Don’t worry. The Chevy logo is proudly stamped in the grille’s design.

Get ready to rock — climb that is, with the new 2019 Chevy Colorado ZR2. News on the street is that it’s the perfect off-roader. Keep an eye on your local Chevrolet showroom. This trail boss should be hitting lots early next year.

Image via Chevrolet.com