Will GM Ever Build a New Chevy Silverado ZR2 to Fight Against the Raptor? [Ask TFLtruck]

2016 Chevrolet Silverado Z71
Chevy Silverado Z71 with Performance parts

Wouldn’t it be great if GM produced a Chevy Silverado ZR2, a half-ton truck with serious off-road capability? Heck yea! Enthusiasts and buyers are eagerly awaiting the 2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2. The upcoming midsize truck will have trick, spool valve, and position sensitive DSSV shock absorbers from Multimatic. This is basically Formula 1 racing technology adopted for the consumer off-road market. The ZR2 has a wider stance, more clearance, unique front bumper with great approach angle, front and rear locking differentials, and much more.

We have not tested the Colorado ZR2 yet (we hope to do so when the truck becomes available in the Spring of 2017), but it’s promising to be a great pickup for crawling over rocks and crossing deserts at a very high rate of speed.

2017 chevy colorado zr2
2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

The next logical question is: why not apply the ZR2 formula to the Silverado 1500? Ford Raptor is out there as the off-road truck to beat in the half-ton segment. GM has the knowledge and resources to design and produce something like a Silverado ZR2. A truck that would be able to go toe to toe with a Ford Raptor or a Ram Rebel TRX (if the TRX ever sees the light of day).

Imagine a Colorado ZR2 truck, scaled up to the Silverado platform. A truck that takes the Z71 off-road package to a whole new level. A mean looking truck with the suspension and the 4×4 running gear to go up against any production off-road pickup. Yes, that would be cool!  GM, are you listening?

Here is a Chevy Silverado Z71 with many off-road performance parts and accessories.