ZR2

Chevrolet finally pulled the wraps off the open-secret (and much anticipated) Colorado ZR2, officially confirming the existence of a second off-road midsize pickup for the ’17 model year. Arriving just in time to do battle with the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, the ZR2 also marks a return of the legendary Chevrolet nameplate, which first appeared on the S-10 pickup in the mid-90's. In fact, some claim the success of that first wide body S-10 ZR2 is what inspired Toyota to trot out its TRD-branded Tacoma off-roaders, and if that’s so, this truck marks the return of a true original.

- Brett T. Evans

Chevrolet claims the Colorado ZR2 reinvents the off-road pickup market in the same way the ’15 Colorado did for midsize pickups. Taking a quick look at the spec sheet suggests that claim may not be unfounded.

With a 2-inch suspension lift and 3 1 ⁄2-inch increase in front and rear track, the Colorado boasts aggressive proportions unmatched by anything in the segment. Indeed, the Tacoma TRD Pro’s suspension lift is only 1 inch, and it rides on a 1-inch-wider track, which is achieved by manipulating wheel backspacing. By comparison, the wider hips and higher stance of the ZR2 give it a decidedly Raptoresque appearance. The ZR2’s widened track is thanks to cast-iron control arms, offering greater durability and suspension travel than on the regular Colorado.