Holy smokes, the new Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is almost here. Rivals like the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro should be nervous because the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 means business. Check out what new off-roading upgrades the ZR2 has to flex. 

What comes with the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2? 

The 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 is almost here. It will debut on July 28, so that’s only a few more weeks away. Until we see the full reveal, we have a few teasers and spy photos to help us speculate about how beefy the new truck is. 

Reportedly, the Colorado ZR2 will ride on the updated version of the 31xx midsize truck platform that’s known as the 31xx-2. The updated architecture is more durable for off-roading improvements and is expected to accommodate full electrification. 

The Chevrolet ZR2 will probably ride on a factory-installed suspension lift with aluminum wheels wrapped in massive off-roading all-terrain tires. It looks like the truck has larger fender flares for protection, but they don’t look as awkward as the ones on the Ford Bronco Raptor. 

Speaking of protection, the undercarriage is protected by skid plates. The suspension will probably feature Multimatic DSSV dampers for a smooth ride. Plus, the Colorado ZR2 has a new Baja Mode for rock crawling. 

It’s safe to expect a two-speed transfer case, a locking differential in the front and rear, hill start assist, and hill descent control. 

How much power does the Colorado ZR2 have? 

According to The Drive, the 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 could come with the current generation’s 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine with 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. However, it could be updated to provide more power. 

The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 191 lb-ft of torque might be dropped across the entire lineup. That leaves the 3.6-liter V6 engine with 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque available. 

It could gain the 2.7-liter turbo-four engine from the Chevy Silverado that cranks out 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque to outmuscle the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. Plus, the six-speed automatic transmission might be replaced by a 10-speed automatic transmission. 

The Colorado can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.1 seconds, which is excellent for a midsize truck. However, we would like the see the ZR2 model gain a little extra muscle. 

When properly equipped, the Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,560 lbs. It could gain more hauling power but doesn’t need it. 

How much does the 2023 Colorado ZR2 cost? 

The 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 could start around $44,000. The current model starts at about $42,600, but the price will likely increase to cover the costs of exterior and interior upgrades. The Colorado is being fully redesigned for the 2023 model year. 

Along with an upgraded suspension, the Colorado will have a new face. The LED headlights will feature a sleek design, the grille shape could change, and the front bumper might get a more prominent shape. 

The new taillights and rear-end design seem to borrow from the larger Silverado. Also, we spot a new sports bar and an LED light bar, meaning unique off-roading accessories. It won’t be long before an overlanding build arrives. 

Stay tuned for the official price and specs. We only have to wait a little longer to learn about the Chevy Colorado ZR2, but we already know it’s swinging for the fences.