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When it comes to General Motors, there is a seemingly endless amount of packages that you can get equipped to these vehicles. If you are familiar with Chevy and GMC, you might recognize the ZR2 package. This option signifies improved off-road ability and ruggedness. But what exactly does ZR2 mean on a Chevy truck?

Is ZR2 better than Z71?

Essentially, the ZR2 package on a Chevy truck means that it is more premium than one with the Z71 package. For new Chevy trucks, that means a more powerful engine and some better materials for the interior. But which one is better really depends on your specific needs and budget. 

A 2023 Chevy Silverado ZR2 shows off as a Chevy truck.
2023 Chevy Silverado | Chevy

The ZR2 package was first introduced for the 2017 model year for the Chevy Colorado. In 2023, the ZR2 Desert Boss is also available. Objectively, the ZR2 package is better than the Z71. At the same time, it is also more expensive to get. So take that for what you will. 

When did the ZR2 package get introduced?

The ZR2 package was first introduced on GM trucks and SUVs in the mid-1990s. For a time, it was phased out, but it reappeared in 2017 as an option for the Chevy Colorado. In 2022, Chevy also brought this package back for the Silverado. And it essentially signifies that a Chevy truck is ready for off-road use. 

A Chevy truck with this package can be expected to have a tuned suspension and other 4×4 goodies. As off-road trucks are experiencing a rise in popularity, it makes sense that Chevy would want to cash in on that. 

Getting the ZR2 package on a truck does not come for free. You are expected to pay a premium in order to get that additional capability and the features that come with it. But for a lot of folks, that’s not a problem. Even if you don’t plan to off-road your truck that often, it is nice to know that it can handle what you throw at it. 

Can you buy a Chevy Colorado ZR2?

According to MotorTrend, Chevy has expanded its ZR2 lineup. Now, you can get multiple Chevy Colorado ZR2 models, giving you more choices when it comes to this midsize truck. Additionally, Chevy has added the ZR2 package to its larger trucks. So for folks who want something larger than a small pickup, that is good news. 

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 parked on top of a sand dune.
Chevy Colorado ZR2 | Chevrolet

The Chevy Silverado might not be the most popular in terms of sales, but it does bring quite a bit to the table. You can still get it with a V8 engine, but a four-cylinder engine is available for folks who want more efficiency. 

The ZR2 package on the Silverado 1500 does make it quite the crazy truck. But models like the Ford F-150 Raptor and Ram 1500 TRX are even crazier. If you are a fan of GM products, though, those other pickup trucks might not do it for you. And it is nice to see a Chevy Silverado ZR2 that is back on the market.

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