2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2: Moab’s New Off-Road Contender

Moab, Utah is more than just a destination, it’s where legends are made. With world famous trails such as Hell’s Gate and Poison Spider, this is ground zero for off-roaders proving themselves and their rigs. For years, it has been the Jeeps that have conquered these rocky terrains with their classic style and tenacity. Now, Chevrolet is making their move with the 2024 Colorado ZR2. This truck is not here to be second place. The ZR2 seeks to change the way off-roading is defined, with significant improvements, smart tech, and trail tested durability. The real question is, can it keep up with the iconic Jeeps, on their home court?

Under the Hood: TurboMax Muscle That Surprises

The ZR2 is powered by a 2.7-liter TurboMax inline-four engine good for 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. You might say that is weak 'on paper' against the V6s or V8s we usually think of in traditional off-roaders. Don't be fooled! This engine has tons of power, especially when you're crawling over rocks or trying to power up a loose sandstone climb. With a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission providing power by torque when you need it, the truck provided a comfortable, relaxed power delivery all the way up steep and gnarly sections like "Hell's Gate"—no dramatic revving to find the right gear, just a quality forward pull without any tire slip.

Suspension That Eats Rocks for Breakfast

The ZR2's suspension is designed to take a beating--in the most complimentary of ways. Multimatic's DSSV (Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve) dampers found in the ZR2 are a standout component; these dampers readily comply to anything from high-speed desert washes to challenging rock crawling. The ZR2 possesses 10.3 inches of front suspension and 11.7 inches of rear suspension travel. This truck can absorb even the toughest bumps, but more impressively, will articulate, wrap, stick, and hook up much like its meant to be on the trail. To further this, the ride height is increased with 17-inch wheels featuring 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, offering a solid foundation for seriously steep and exceedingly ugly terrain without heartily shaking your bones.

Off-Road Tech: Terrain Mode Is a Game-Changer

The Terrain Mode in the ZR2 is a unique feature that has some clever software that modifies the truck's behavior in difficult ground conditions. You step on the gas pedal to crawl a rock face, and the truck will automatically apply the brakes to improve traction—that's what it does. It feels like "one pedal" driving, providing control of the throttle when going downhill or slowling going up uneven obstacles. For novices, it's like having an off-road instructor in the passenger seat. For veterans, it means more vehicle control with less effort. This is not just some neato tech—it is a real benefit, on the technical trails of Moab.

Cabin Vibes: Built for Bumps, Designed for Comfort

Let's be honest—off-roading can be a tough workout. However, the ZR2's cabin is a haven from the rough and tumble chaos. The seats are firm and comfortable, cushioned and shaped to hold you in place either while going through side-leaning climbs or down whoop filled trails. The dashboard has a nice 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in allow you to easily use maps, music and more. There is also wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other notable features include base rubberized floor mats, a center grab handle for stability, and well-designed physical controls, making this truck feel just as ready for dirt or daily driving.

Hell’s Gate: The Ultimate ZR2 Moment

During MotorTrend's testing, one of the biggest highlights was when we watched the ZR2 attempt the infamous Hell's Gate. A steep, narrow trail that is infamous for rolling rigs that lose their line. With a steady driver, the Trail Control on, and with the ZR2's wide stance keeping it stable, the ZR2 crawled up the sandstone like it had something to prove. No drama. No wheelspin. Just smooth and steady. It made even the biggest Jeep loyalists raise an eyebrow—while the ZR2 might not have the lineage, it has certainly earned respect.

Gas Mileage & Road Manners

Fuel economy is probably the last thing off-roaders care about—but it’s good to have. The ZR2 is estimated to get an average of 17 mpg, both on the highway and in the city, and this is about what you’d expect from a lifted, off-road more midsize truck. But what’s noticeable is how civilized it feels on pavement. The ride is firm but not harsh. Steering is light and responsive. Wind and tire noise are detectable at highway speeds, but it still is far better than many dedicated off-road rigs. For the average weekend warrior, it’s fun to think about how it really transitions from trail head to commute so well.

Pricing, Packages, and Value

At a base MSRP of $47,100, the 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 isn't inexpensive, but you're getting a lot of engineering for your dollar. This isn't some decked-out base model with a lift kit, it's a purpose-built off-road truck designed from the ground up. If buyers want to up the trail cred even more, there's now the Bison Edition, which was developed with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), and includes steel bumpers, metal skid plates, and beadlock-capable wheels. For the MSRP, the ZR2 is one of the most well-balanced trucks out there: trail-capable, tech-savvy, and surprisingly comfortable.

2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Specs

Source(Image / Thumbnail): motortrend