Chevy Dropped a Colorado ZR2 Bison Prototype
Automotive companies are usually fairly secretive when it comes to new cars, trucks, and SUVs. But over the weekend, Chevy showed off what appears to be the Colorado ZR2 Bison. A group of journalists was gathered in Nevada to see Chevy’s new performance midsize truck.
What is the Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison?
A performance variant of Chevy’s midsize truck has been rumored; it looks like the brand is gearing up to release the ZR2 Bison Colorado. Now, what was shown to folks gathered at the event is a heavily-disguised pickup. But it is certainly taller than the regular Colorado, and it has some more aggressive features.
For starters, the potential Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison has 35-inch tires and a long-travel suspension. This should make the Bison an even more capable version of the ZR2. Tires are not the only thing changed about this prototype truck. There will also be a tuned suspension to help with off-road use.
This Colorado is taking things to the next level
According to Car and Driver, Chevy did not confirm that what is being shown is the Colorado ZR2 Bison. But apparently, there was a “Bison” sticker attached to one of the prototype models. That does not mean that the camouflaged truck is 100% going to use the Bison moniker. But there is a solid chance that it will.
The other unknown is what engine this performance midsize truck will feature. The 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2 features a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine. In this application, it makes 310 horsepower and 430 pound-foot of torque.
It is possible that the power output could be increased for the ZR2 Bison. This can be done through an engine tune or other means. And personally, I wouldn’t be surprised if that is something that GM is looking at.
The midsize truck wars are heating up
With the Blue Oval working on bringing the Ford Ranger Raptor to the States and Chevy dropping what could be a Colorado ZR2 Bison, midsize trucks are getting legitimate performance. Both of these pickups have not hit full production yet, so there’s not really a real-world comparison out there.
At the same time, we do know that the 2024 Ranger Raptor is going to take Ford’s midsize truck to the next level. It will have more power and come from the factory ready for off-road use.
Undoubtedly, the new Ranger and the potential Colorado ZR2 Bison are going to be going head-to-head to see which pickup is the winner. One thing is clear, though, the Raptor and ZR2 Bison packages are not just for looks.
Time will tell how much of this Chevy Colorado is prototype and how much we will see actually make it to the production model. Either way, it certainly looks like the brand is making the right moves to make a legitimate off-road truck that is ready to hit the trail. Just keep in mind all of that comes at a cost, and the Colorado ZR2 Bison probably will not come cheap.
