Photo: General Motors
The third-generation Chevrolet Colorado is reaching new heights—literally—with the return of the ZR2 Bison for 2024. With demand for off-road pickups at an all-time high, GM expects to double the sales of the original and plans to ramp up production accordingly.
Developed in a partnership with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), the new Colorado ZR2 Bison is described by the automaker as the most off-road-capable midsize truck ever. It has been tested and proven by champion off-road racer Chad Hall in competition, as well as testing on the Rubicon Trail.
Compared to the Colorado ZR2, the Bison stands out with 35-inch Mud Terrain tires (including a spare mounted on a rack in the cargo bed), AEV 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, AEV fender flares and sturdier AEV bumpers.
Photo: General Motors
Boron steel skid plates and rocker protectors improve underbody protection, while the Multimatic DSSV dampers use segment-exclusive Jounce Control technology. Suspension travel is unchanged, though.
Ground clearance is increased from 10.7 inches to 12.2 inches. Breakover and departure angles (26.9 degrees and 26 degrees, respectively) are larger, as well, but the approach angle (38.2 degrees) is slightly compromised by the new winch-ready front bumper.
Aesthetically, a “Flowtie” front badge and Bison identification complete the exterior look, while an AEV badge is embroidered on the front headrests. All-weather floor liners can be found in the cabin, too.
Photo: General Motors
The engine under the hood remains the same, namely a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed autobox and 4WD system featuring a two-speed transfer case. Output is 310 horsepower along with 430 pound-feet of torque. Since the truck is heavier, payload drops from 1,280 pounds to 1,050 pounds, while max towing capacity is down from 6,000 pounds to 5,500 pounds.
The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison goes on sale in early fall, with pricing to be announced closer to launch. Want something bigger? Chevy has you covered with the Silverado ZR2 Bison and Silverado HD ZR2 Bison.
Watch: 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and Colorado ZR2 Make Debut
Keyword: 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Brings Back the Beast