The next-generation 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 and several other new prototype trucks are spied in Michigan and we see many interesting details. This prototype truck convoy includes the next ZR2, possibly the next 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X, the new 2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2, a Ford Ranger Raptor, and a current Colorado ZR2 just to name a few. Here are all of the details.
2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2
Seeing the next Colorado and Canyon prototypes side-by-side suggests that the next-generation midsize pickup trucks from GM will have approximately the same wheelbase and overall size. However, there are many changes that lurk within. These most off-road-worthy prototypes are rolling on Goodyear Wrangler Territory all-terrain tires. The prototype trucks are wearing the LT 285/70R17 tires – which makes them “33s”. If you want to be precise it converts to a 32.7-inch diameter.
Also visible are glimpses of the new grille and headlight design. There are massive rock rails and/or side steps running along the bottom to protect the body of the truck. The rear suspension is equipped with leaf springs and what looks like DSSV Multimatic spool-valve shocks.
We expect that these prototypes have the latest 2.7-liter turbocharged I4 engine under the hood that is mated to either an 8-speed or a 10-speed automatic transmission. This updated engine has a new engine block and crankshaft design. In the 2022 Silverado 1500, it is rated at 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.
2023 GMC Canyon AT4X / AT4
While the new 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X has already made its official world debut, we still do not know for sure whether the AT4X designation will also transition to the GMC Canyon in 2023 and beyond. However, this makes a lot of sense. The camouflaged prototypes we see here appear to have a lot of the same running gear and tires as the Colorado ZR2 trucks. It should mean that 33-inch tires and DSSV Multimatic shocks should transfer over to the Canyon lineup. Naturally, there will be many styling differences. The Canyon AT4 (and AT4X?) models are expected to have different and more luxurious interior appointments, different wheel designs, and more.
2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2
Naturally, the first-ever 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 ZR2 joined this party. The ZR2 version of the full-size truck has already made its full debut several weeks ago. This truck is expected to go on sale in the April 2022 timeframe or a little later. The bigger truck also rolls on 33-inch all-terrain tires. It has a larger version of the DSSV Multimatic spool-valve shocks. Under the hood of the Silverado ZR2 is a familiar 6.2L V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Check out the video for additional information and discussion.
