The Chevy Colorado ZR2 is a versatile off-road machine, but how does it do in the mud?
That’s the question TFLTruck Managing Editor Andre asked me to find an answer to. We have already run the ZR2 up some of Colorado’s gorgeous off-road trails, but none of them had any real thick mud on them.
Here in Ontario, Canada, we don’t have that problem! And thanks to some large thunderstorms in the area in late August, the water sitting atop the soft earth was particularly deep.
Our mud run certainly put all of the ZR2’s off-road capabilities to the test, but none more so than the tires. The Goodyear Wrangler Duratracs that come with this truck are not the quietest set of all-terrain tires available, but they certainly are capable. Whether it be loose rocks or deep mud, the tire’s ability to grip is solid. Every time the ZR2 started to sink into the bog, the tires were able to scratch and claw the ground with enough grip to pull us through. Being able to lock both the front and rear differential also helps make sure power is sent to the ground evenly.
ALSO SEE: Chevy, Jeep, or Toyota? Colorado ZR2 Takes on Tacoma TRD Pro and Wrangler Rubicon on the Cliffhanger
The 8.9-inches of ground clearance on the ZR2 was also enough to get the truck through, but a little more clearance would be appreciated. There is a two-inch body lift that is especially nice in deep situations like this.
Our ZR2 came powered by the gasoline V6 that makes 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Peak horsepower isn’t available until 6800 rpm, so you have to really let this V6 rev up to get it moving, leaving the power feeling adequate. I believe Chevy also missed an opportunity to beef up this powertrain and put out a truly unique and strong package, though I do recognize that would have driven up the cost.
In the US, the ZR2 starts at $42,500 not including destination, while in Canada the truck starts at $46,255.
Overall, the ZR2 is an excellent off-road machine that is good at the slow stuff but can also be driven at high-speeds with suspension ready to soak up the abuse.
To see it for yourself, watch the video above!
