2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2: Catching Air Off-Road! Top 5 Surprises [Video]

2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2

The moment is finally here. We are driving the 2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2. The ZR2 has the makings of the ultimate factory midsize off-road pickup truck. We will have a full review of the truck on May 15th. Still, we wanted you to have the first look at the new pickup, so we are jumping it for you and give some more insights into the top five surprising features of the 2017 ZR2.

2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel

Yep, the 2017 Chevy ZR2 can be ordered with the “baby” Duramax four-cylinder. It still produces 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, and it is still backed up by a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.6L gasoline V6 is the other option.

Front Air Dam

Let the off-road enthusiasts rejoice. The approach angle robbing front chin spoiler that you can find on the Colorado Z71 and most other GM pickup trucks is gone! Not only is it gone, but the ZR2 has a redesigned front and rear bumpers for better clearance.

Multimatic Position-Sensitive Spool Valve Shocks

The ZR2 is equipped with very unique and sophisticated shock absorber technology. Before now, spool valve shocks could only be found on Formula 1 race cars, some exotic cars, and the recent Chevy Camaro Z28. This is highly advanced stuff. How does it work? We will tell you next week.

Wheels and Tires

The ZR2 comes with unique 17-inch wheels and 31-inch Goodyear Duratrac tires. What other pickups use a similar tire? Ram Power Wagon comes to mind. If you want to mount the spare tire in the bed (like on the original LA Auto Show concept) you can do that with a mounting bracket you can get at the dealer./

Just Three Options

You can make only three choice for ZR2 options: which engine, crew cab or extended cab, and carpeted or vynil floor.

Bonus

Of course, the coolest party trick of the all-new ZR2 is the front locking differential.  It is the only midsize truck to have front and rear lockers. It is the only pickup truck to offer a turbo-diesel, exhaust brake, and two lockers from the factory.

Check out the video of the ZR2 jumping.

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov is an Automotive Enthusiast, Producer, Reviewer, Videographer, Writer, Software Engineer, Husband, Father, and Friend.