The story about the great Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison dates way back to 2018, when the prototype was spotted on the street. Three years ago, we didn't know what to expect from something that looked like an adapted off-road pickup truck. These days, we all know what the Bison stands for, and we eagerly await the newest models to be released.
To cut a long story short, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is a powerful off-roader. The rugged and capable pickup truck came out from the factory ready to tackle heavy-duty conditions and give adventurers even more excitement when off-road. In fact, the vehicle proved to be so beneficial and desirable that most models from 2019 were quickly sold out.
Worry not, you can still find some old (and new) Colorado ZR2 Bisons out there. If you're interested in this vehicle and consider getting it for your off-road ventures, continue reading. We reveal everything about the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, from its evolution to the finest design details.
Explore The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Evolution
The Colorado ZR2 Bison initially rolled out as a collaborative project between American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) and Chevrolet. These two brands worked on equipping the Colorado ZR2 for off-road conditions. The regular ZR2 model was already powerful, coming with a diesel-powered 2.8-liter Duramax engine or a 3.6-liter gasoline V6 one. Depending on the engine, it produces 186 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque or 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. All in all, very impressive.
What AEV and Chevrolet did is to further equip this vehicle with a warn winch, extra skid plate protection, several lighting options, huge tires, and more. All the additional features were meant to provide unmatched off-road performance but still retain the initial comfort and easy handling the ZR2 gives. The initiative was successful, but the second try in 2020 collected all the praises.
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison from 2020 got quite a few extras, starting with the GM Performance tie rod sleeve kit and suspension leveling kit, rear differential skid plate, AEV jack base, and more. In summary, the Bison turned out to be an impenetrable ZR2, with extensive armor to protect the vehicle in challenging off-road situations. To make a visual difference between the two models, AEV and Chevrolet also added a new grill, stronger fender flares, and AEV marks on the Bison.
In essence, the collaboration between AEV and Chevrolet produced an admirable truck that is easy to drive and handle over different terrains. You can take it through riverbeds and climb the rocks without a second thought, and that stands for something.
The refreshed 2021 Chevrolet ZR2 Bison retained the specs of the previous models and accepted some minor design changes. An untrained eye wouldn't even spot the differences at first. Unlike the 2020 model, the new Bison has red tow hooks at the front for a little extra color and some tailgate style changes. The interior remains the same, sleek and practical, but nothing extravagant to set the Bison apart from the competition.
What To Expect From The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 In 2022?
Chevrolet has no intention to stop with the innovations. The 2022 Colorado ZR2 is set to have an array of features and improvements, starting with wider tracts, exclusive front and rear electronic locking differentials, and more. The vehicle will be available in Dusk, Midnight, and Bison trims, offering exceptional performance for all needs, from daily driving to rock climbing.
Nothing much will change in 2022 regarding engine power. The new Colorado ZR2 comes either with a 3.6-liter V6 or 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine, 8-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission, and producing solid 308 hp or 181 hp. However, the new model will have exciting tech features for improved safety assistance and enhanced connectivity even off-road.
Now, let's talk about pricing. The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 from 2021 starts at $41,600, and the Bison package adds up around $5,750. The package comes with the same price tag regardless of the engine type and includes the standard specs we listed above, which is a good deal. However, Chevrolet gives you an option to personalize your Bison truck, and this is very tempting and potentially can be quite costly.
You can add a performance cat-back exhaust tip relocation kit to both engines, off-road sports bar, off-road lights, cargo tie-downs, black tailgate lighting, and much more. It goes without saying, this will cost you an arm and a leg. Still, if you have some extra money to spend and you want to personalize your new off-roader, we say go for it. The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison can be your new long-term investment.