Chevy's off-road trims, particularly the ZR2 and ZR2 Bison models, cater to folks who live for thrilling dirt-road adventures. These rugged versions of popular Chevy trucks pack specialized tech and capabilities that regular models don't have. At Huffines Chevrolet Plano, we give you the rundown on what makes these trucks tick, what they can do, and which could be your ideal choice for weekend getaways around Texas.
Understanding Chevrolet Off-Road Trims: An Introduction To Adventure
Chevy builds its off-road trims to tackle rough terrain without sacrificing comfort. The Multimatic dampers set the ZR2 apart — they provide exceptional shock absorption while giving you tight control, a game-changer if you split your time between highways and off-roading.
On the ZR2 trims, you'll notice strengthened steering knuckles, stronger front control arms, and larger skid plates to protect your truck's critical components. Chevy equips the ZR2 with off-road modes and front and rear E-Lockers for extra traction when things get slippery.
Chevy teamed up with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) for the Bison trim, giving the truck a toughened exterior. AEV designed the bumpers and underbody protection plates to shield important components from hazards during off-roading. These trucks are built for heavy-duty performance. Since its 2017 introduction, the ZR2 Colorado has proven itself in the heat of competition, particularly in the Best In The Desert series, where it's the only truck to have finished every race it started.
Comprehensive Guide to Chevrolet Off-Road Trim Levels
Chevrolet offers the ZR2 trim on three of its trucks: the Colorado, Silverado 1500, and Silverado HD. The Colorado ZR2 has a 3-inch factory lift and high-performance suspension, making it perfect for narrow trails. For more control, the Silverado 1500 ZR2 has a 2-inch factory lift and an upgraded two-speed transfer case with Terrain mode that works with the E-Lockers, allowing you to tackle mud, sand, or snow. The Silverado HD ZR2 has a 1.5-inch suspension lift, and the diesel variants allow you to tow up to 36,000 pounds while navigating tough terrain.
All ZR2 models come equipped with innovative trail technology, including digital displays that track real-time performance stats and underbody cameras — a first in the Colorado class. These cameras allow you to see what's underneath you, helping you to avoid unexpected hazards. Plus, the suspension systems are precision-tuned for the harshest conditions. The Bison models elevate durability with AEV-designed boron steel plates underneath, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and bumpers shaped to improve your approach and departure angles and prevent damage.
While Ford's Raptor, Ram's Power Wagon, and Toyota's TRD Pro are all fighting for the off-road truck crown, Chevy takes a different approach. Rather than a single formula, you have different options to fit your specific needs. An impressive one in three ZR2 buyers have switched from other brands, and for the Colorado ZR2, that jumps to one in two. These numbers tell you everything about how Chevy's shaking things up in the off-road truck market and why more people are choosing to park new ZR2s in their driveways.
Detailed Exploration of Top Chevrolet Off-Road Trims
Let's look a little closer at the Silverado 1500 ZR2. Chevy designed this truck from the ground up for serious off-road enthusiasts. Its shaped front bumper gives you a 33.5-degree approach angle and 11.2 inches of ground clearance. The truck sits on 33-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch wheels. You have two engine options: a 6.2-liter V-8 pumping out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque or the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel producing 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission pairs with both engines, giving you power whether climbing a muddy hill or passing on the highway.
The toughest of the ZR2s, the Silverado HD ZR2, is powered by a 6.6-liter V-8 gas engine generating 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque and can haul up to 18,500 pounds. For more strength, the 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V-8, producing 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque, increases the towing rate to 36,000 pounds. The 10-speed automatic transmission pairs with both engines, while the HD rides on 35-inch mud terrain tires designed for superior grip.
Don't overlook the Colorado ZR2, as this midsize truck packs attitude along with clever features, such as an off-road performance display that shows how your truck is functioning while you're bouncing along. The Colorado is powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TurboMax engine that generates 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It fits in standard parking spots and navigates city streets with ease — the best of both worlds.
Selecting the Right Chevrolet Off-Road Trim for Your Needs
Choosing your ideal Chevrolet off-road truck isn't rocket science, but it does require some careful consideration. If you live in the city but want to escape to the trails on weekends, consider the Colorado ZR2. It's small enough for daily use but handles rough terrain like a pro, and with an MSRP starting at $49,600, it's a viable option. For towing your toys and tackling tough terrain, the Silverado 1500 ZR2 offers a larger footprint and more power. And if you're regularly hauling heavy loads to remote spots, the Silverado HD ZR2 is purpose-built for your lifestyle.
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 has an MSRP starting at $70,000, and the Silverado HD ZR2’s MSRP starts at $70,600, but depending on how option-happy you get, those prices can climb. The Bison package can add approximately $8,000 to your tab — it's not cheap, but considering what you're getting, you might find the investment makes sense. Customization options abound, including various step assists ranging from $500 to $1,100. Engine choices span from V-6 to V-8 to diesel options, allowing you to choose the right balance of power, efficiency, and capability for your driving style.
Consider the terrain you'll tackle most often. If you're planning to traverse rocky trails in places such as Sedona, the Bison package featuring underbody armor is worth every penny. But, if you're more likely to be pulling a heavy trailer through muddy ranch roads, the Silverado HD ZR2, with its massive towing capacity, makes more sense than the Colorado.
Explore Chevrolet ZR2 Models in Plano, Texas
When it comes to finding the perfect truck, there's no substitute for hands-on experience. You've got to drive them for yourself to feel how they handle and see if they fit your driving style. If you're ready to get behind the wheel, contact us at Huffines Chevrolet Plano today and take one for a test drive. Our team knows these trucks well and can help match you with the right ZR2 for your adventures. Your perfect off-road companion might be sitting on our lot right now.