If the midsize truck class is so fashionable proper now, it is partly because of the introduction of the Chevrolet Colorado in 2015, alongside its cousin the GMC Canyon; the GM one-two punch critically reinvigorated the midsize pickup phase. As for this specific model I just lately test-drove, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, it’s positively aimed toward clients on the lookout for a car that may go nearly wherever.

The ZR2 variant has been with us for the reason that 2017 model-year, and in its creation Chevrolet clearly took inspiration from – and was challenged by – one other pickup designed for off-roading: the Ford F-150 Raptor. Now, it is true that the Raptor is a hulking beast that overshadows the “little” Chevy, however do not go pondering that the ZR2 is not able to maintaining with the large dangerous Ford on tough terrain. Removed from it. The Colorado may not have the identical degree of brute energy to play with, however it has all of the instruments to tackle bother and are available out the winner.

This yr, the Colorado ZR2 has obtained a mid-cycle overhaul, characterised primarily by a slightly aggressive reimagining of the nostril up entrance.

The mannequin as examined runs $53,788, a bit of heftier than the common ZR2 for the reason that non-compulsory Midnight Package deal and efficiency exhaust system are included right here.

Midnight Version
More and more fashionable within the trade, the black-on-black theme – therefore the Midnight appellation – theme can be among the many choices out there with the common Chevrolet Colorado pickup. Even the Z71 variant might be wearing an identical package deal. The non-compulsory Midnight Package deal for the ZR2 – price: $4,015 – options black bodywork and unique 17-inch wheels in shiny black. By the best way, even the spare tire is a 17-inch wheel. As for the off-road sport bar topped with auxiliary lighting, it significantly modifications the pickup’s silhouette.

It is as much as you to resolve in the event you like this frankly gloomy environment. If not, you possibly can at all times go for the non-compulsory Twilight Package deal, which retains the choices of the Midnight Package deal with out the black physique color. The worth can be the identical, so it’s going to come to all the way down to how cheery or not you need your truck to be.

Among the many different exterior choices value mentioning, the efficiency exhaust system is definitely one thing to contemplate if engine sound is one in every of your priorities. On this case, the less-restrictive piping provides $1,775 to the value tag.

2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Midnight Version, ZR2 badging

Probably the most snug Colorado
Like different off-road-ready pickups, the Colorado has variant-specific shocks, and so they come from an area firm, Multimatic. This Ontario-based agency developed these shocks with spool valves, that are largely answerable for the improved consolation on board the truck… and the power to face up to a leap when the driving force pushes the machine over the sting. Whether or not you are driving on a high-speed gravel highway, more-challenging terrain and even only a weathered Canadian highway, the Colorado ZR2 is a gentler possibility for passengers’ backs than the common Colorado.

Observe that along with the shocks, the truck advantages from a floor clearance elevated by two inches, whereas the suspension arms are product of forged iron. The electronically locked entrance and rear differentials are additionally a plus for passing by obstacles, as are the underbody protectors on the edges of the car. Below the car, a protecting plate covers the entrance a part of the underbody, whereas a second one protects the switch case.

As for these widened fenders, they are not simply there to impress people. The elevated suspension journey, wider tracks and people off-road tires compelled the engineers so as to add some muscle to this physique.

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Midnight Version 2021, intérieur

Good, however…
I admit it, I just like the Colorado ZR2! To start with, simply check out it. That muscular look is definitely a optimistic issue. An off-road pickup needs to be enticing and look the half, particularly for the reason that class appears to develop a brand new member each quarter.  

Its powertrain can be very nicely suited to the truck’s chassis. The three.6L V6 is not a monster of uncooked energy, however on this software – with the exhaust that lets out a more-raucous sound as a bonus – it has no motive to really feel inferior versus the opposite engines at work within the class. The non-compulsory 4-cylinder turbodiesel is definitely an fascinating different for know-how lovers, however the $6,000-plus price ticket is difficult to swallow. The 8-speed computerized transmission additionally does a wonderful job, by the best way.

And regardless of the extra “versatile” suspension, the Colorado ZR2 would not endure from “steering-itis”, that aspect of a 4×4 that forces its driver to continually make corrections to the steering wheel on the freeway. OK, this Chevy pickup is definitely not surgical on the extent of a Camaro, however it’s a lot much less allergic to the freeway than a Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, for instance.

2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Midnight Version, first row

The place the ZR2 would not do significantly better than its off-roading rivals is when it comes to precise, bodily entry. Fact is that to get behind the wheel, it’s a must to attain as much as and maintain the wheel and leap onto the seat. The dearth of a deal with on the A-pillar and even the B-pillar makes getting on board a bit of tough.

One other consideration is gasoline consumption. Certainly, the bottom clearance, the off-road tires and the more-playful character of the ZR2 inevitably leads to greater fuel payments for house owners. We’re not speaking about an enormous distinction right here, however in line with EnerGuide, the typical for an everyday V6-powered Colorado is 12.1L/100 km; as compared, the ZR2 averages 14.1L/100 km.

The final phrase
Regardless of the drawbacks, which frankly all fall into the class of the suitable trade-offs you make when going for one in every of these specialised variants, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 continues to be, in my view, one of many prime selections for the pickup truck-loving outdoor fanatic. It is snug every day, its construct high quality continues to be as much as snuff and the powertrain is confirmed. What extra can we are saying?

2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Midnight Version, entrance

We like

The devastating look
On-road consolation
Off-road capabilities

We like much less

The upper gasoline consumption
The peak of the physique (though crucial)
The seats are a bit quick

The competitors

Ford Ranger Tremor
Jeep Gladiator Rubicon/Mojave
Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
Toyota Tacoma TRD Professional

2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Midnight Version, three-quarters rear

Specialists

Customers