Chevy’s Z71 package is well-known for its off-road focused features and ability. So, how does the 2015 Chevy Colorado Z71 perform in the Nevada desert? TFLtruck finds out in this first drive off-road review.
Chevy equipped the test Crew Cab with aggressive tires and a performance exhaust system. The terrain you see in this test is similar to the one used during the 2015 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro first drive. These are the rocky and bumpy trails in the vicinity of Las Vegas.
The top of the line Z71 is powered by a 3.6L V6 that produces 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm. A 6-speed automatic transmission sends the power to the 4WD system. This truck is EPA rated at 17 MPG city and 24 MPG on the highway.
The Z71 package is more than just a few stickers and badges. Chevrolet plugs in specifically tuned suspension components to smooth out the rough going off-road. There is an automatically locking rear differential. If it senses that one wheel begins to slip, it will send power to the other side to find traction. There is extra under-body protection, including the transfer case shield. There are also other modern features, such as the hill descent control.
The result is a smooth riding truck that is capable at some speedy desert running. This is not a full-blown Baja runner, but it can hold its own.
Several of you have already asked about the low front valance on the new Colorado (and the full-size Silverado trucks). Of course, it’s there to maximize fuel economy on the highway. The truck even has active grille shutters that close at speed to optimize air flow and efficiency.
Colorado crew cab long box has an approach angle of 17.1 deg with the chin spoiler. If you are looking for better approach angle, then you take off the chin by removing several screws and fasteners. It’s not a super quick procedure, but it’s good to know that it comes off if you prefer. Of course, the shorter wheel-base trucks will have better approach and breakover angles (breakover is 18.6 deg for the test truck). The departure angles are practically the same among all Colorado variants (departure is 22.2 deg for the test truck).
The 2015 Chevy Colorado is on sale now.
Check out this TFLtruck first drive video of the 2015 Chevy Colorado and also learn all the details about the bed cargo management system.
