Midsize trucks are becoming the go-to choice for drivers who want the perfect balance of power, versatility, and everyday practicality—without the oversized footprint of a full-size pickup. The latest Chevy Colorado, especially in its rugged ZR2 Bison trim, takes that formula to the next level. Built for adventure yet practical enough for daily driving, this truck is turning heads and making drivers rethink what they need in their next ride here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse.
While the standard turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine offers a balanced mix of power and efficiency, the real highlight is the Bison’s off-road enhancements. Equipped with advanced hardware and technology, this truck is built to tackle challenging terrain with confidence. Whether you're navigating rocky trails, muddy paths, or steep inclines, the Bison provides the traction, stability, and durability needed for off-the-grid adventures.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Colorado features a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which in its base form produces 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the more powerful TurboMax engine unlocks 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides solid performance for a midsize truck, along with an automatic transfer case that allows seamless switching between 2WD, 4WD High, 4WD Low, and an all-wheel-drive mode for on-road conditions.
When properly configured, the Colorado can tow up to 7,700 pounds. However, the ZR2 Bison’s additional off-road components, including 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Mud Terrain tires, reduce towing capacity to approximately 5,500 pounds. Despite the added weight, the Bison retains a respectable level of acceleration and overall performance. The off-road-tuned suspension absorbs impacts effortlessly, making even the roughest terrain feel more manageable.
Built for Off-Road Adventures
The Colorado ZR2 Bison comes equipped with serious off-road upgrades, setting it apart as one of the most capable midsize trucks available. Features include Multimatic DSSV dampers, hydraulic bump stops, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, and AEV steel bumpers. Additionally, the truck is fitted with AEV skid plates protecting critical components, including the front and rear differentials, fuel tank, and rocker panels.
To accommodate the larger tires, the front axle has been repositioned, and a full-size spare is mounted in the truck bed. While this enhances off-road readiness, it does obstruct rear visibility, making a digital rearview mirror a potential enhancement Chevrolet could consider in future models. Ground clearance is impressive at 12.2 inches, giving the truck the ability to clear obstacles without hesitation.
The truck also features selectable drive modes, including Baja mode, which adjusts throttle response and shift mapping for high-speed desert running. Rock Crawl mode fine-tunes the truck’s traction control and low-speed power delivery to help it climb over boulders with precision. These tailored settings ensure the Bison is equipped for virtually any off-road challenge.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Colorado ZR2 Bison balances ruggedness with modern technology. A fully digital 11-inch gauge cluster and an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen provide an intuitive user experience. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with built-in Google and Alexa voice integration.
The cabin is designed with practicality in mind, featuring a well-organized layout with a mix of physical buttons and touchscreen controls. While the perforated leather seats offer heating and ventilation, they lean toward the firmer side, requiring some adjustment for an optimal seating position. Rear passenger space is somewhat limited, a common trade-off in the midsize truck category. Storage is generous, with multiple compartments, including under-seat bins and a deep center console, making it easy to store essential gear.
Safety and Convenience
The Colorado ZR2 Bison includes a suite of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning, lane centering, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. These systems enhance both on-road and off-road confidence, making the truck a well-rounded choice for adventure seekers. The high-resolution cameras also provide a front-facing trail view, allowing drivers to see obstacles before reaching them, a crucial feature when navigating unpredictable terrain.
A Midsize Truck with Serious Capability
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison stands out as a purpose-built off-road machine with impressive technology and rugged enhancements. Its combination of power, durability, and advanced off-road features makes it a strong contender in the midsize truck market, offering a compelling alternative to full-size options.
Whether tackling rocky trails, deep mud, or steep mountain passes, the Bison is engineered for adventure, proving that midsize trucks can be just as tough and capable as their larger counterparts.
See What Tough Really Feels Like – Test Drive the Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Today!
