- First making its debut with the Chevrolet S-10 pickup back in 1994, the ZR2 badge now crowns three Chevy pickup models in the U.S.—the Colorado, Silverado, and Silverado HD. As the halo trim, the ZR2 represents the ultimate in off-road performance and durability from Chevy.
- These ZR2 trucks come packed with trail-ready features, including an advanced off-road suspension system and a factory lift of up to three inches.
If regular pickup trucks are your daily commuters, think of the ZR2 variants as their caffeine-loaded, adrenaline-pumping alter egos. Chevrolet’s ZR2 lineup represents the most hardcore iterations of their pickup trucks, designed for those moments when the GPS says “turn around” but your adventure-seeking heart says “keep going.”
Here’s everything you need to know.
How Did the Chevy ZR2 Trim Came Into Existence?
The ZR2 legacy began in 1994 with the second-generation Chevrolet S-10 pickup. Compared to the standard version, the S-10 ZR2 offered a lot more off-road worthiness.
Initially available only as a single-cab, the range later expanded to include a double-cab version, continuing its dirt-slinging adventures until 2003.
In 1996, the ZR2 package also made its way to the two-door Chevy Blazer SUV. Since the Blazer shared the same chassis as the S-10 pickup, it required minimal tweaks to include the package, offering similar rugged enhancements.
By 2001, Chevrolet extended the ZR2 package to the smaller Tracker SUV. However, when the Tracker was discontinued in 2004, the Blazer became the sole ZR2-equipped vehicle. Production of the second-generation Blazer wrapped up in 2005, marking the end of the ZR2 lineup—for a while, at least.
After more than a decade-long hiatus, the ZR2 badge made a triumphant return in 2017 with the Colorado, now armed with even greater off-road capability. This was the second-generation Colorado, which had been available in North America since 2013. The ZR2 trim later debuted on the Chevy Silverado in 2022, bringing its off-road pedigree to that full-size platform for the first time.
Chevrolet Vehicles With the ZR2 Trim (And What Do They Offer)
Think of ZR2 as Chevrolet’s way of saying “hold my beer” to regular off-road packages. These aren’t trucks with some bolt-on bits and fancy stickers. Standing at the top of the Chevy offroad foodchain (above trailboss or Z71 packages), every ZR2 variant comes loaded with serious hardware that transforms these everyday workhorses into terrain-conquering beasts.
Currently, the ZR2 is exclusive to the Chevy’s lineup of trucks that includes the Colorado, Silverado 1500, and the heavy duty counterpart of the Silverado. Here’s what exactly it offers in each vehicle:
2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
If the regular Colorado is your weekend warrior, the ZR2 variant is your full-time adventure machine. Here’s what makes it special:
- 2.7L Turbo High-Output engine delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of torque
- Performance-focused suspension featuring DSSV Multimatic dampers and a 3-inch factory-installed lift
- 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory mud-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch Graphite and Oxide Gold aluminum wheels
- Wider chassis with an elevated stance and increased ground clearance
- Off-road rocker panel protectors and aluminum skid plate for added protection
- Off-road-specific front fascia with reinforced bumpers and fender flares
- Flowtie emblem and black hood trim
- Stowflex tailgate
- Driver-controlled electronic locking front and rear differentials
- Five selectable drive modes, plus an off-road performance display
- Exclusive Artemis interior featuring Strike Yellow accents
The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is a leap forward, showcasing a ground-up redesign that builds on the latest-generation Colorado (introduced in 2023).
Key changes include a purpose-built front fascia optimized for better approach angles, rugged underbody protection, and a wider track compared to standard models. Additionally, the suspension has been significantly upgraded, allowing the ZR2 to achieve an impressive 10.7 inches of ground clearance—substantially higher than the 8.9 inches of its predecessor.
These enhancements stem from two major updates. First, GM repositioned the front axle, creating room for larger 33-inch Mud-Terrain tires. Second, the ZR2 Colorado benefits from DSSV Multimatic dampers, paired with a high-performance suspension and a 3-inch factory-installed lift. Unlike the Z71 trim, which lacks extensive off-road suspension upgrades, the ZR2 is purpose-built to conquer challenging trails with confidence.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2
Think of this as the Colorado ZR2’s bigger, burlier brother. Here’s what it brings to the table:
- Off-road-focused chassis and suspension tuning
- ZR2 Suspension Package with a high-performance 3-inch lifted suspension and Multimatic DSSV dampers
- Upgraded 2-speed Autotrac transfer case with Terrain Mode for for improved one-pedal rock crawling
- 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory mud-terrain tires mounted on ZR2-specific 18-inch aluminum wheels
- Hill descent control
- Front and rear electronic locking differentials
- Large underbody aluminum skid plates for added protection
- High-clearance steel front bumper
- Performance Red recovery hooks
- Raised hood with a stylish black insert
- Exclusive interior theme of Graystone/Jet Black paired with Strike Yellow accent stitching
- Chevy “flow-tie” emblem for improved airflow
Since its debut in 2019, the fourth-generation Silverado has consistently evolved with subtle annual updates. A major refresh in 2022 brought something exciting to the lineup: the rugged ZR2 trim. Exclusively offered in a crew cab with a short bed, the Silverado 1500 ZR2 crowns the lineup, letting you choose between a 305-hp diesel or a rumbling 420-hp V8.
The Silverado ZR2’s aggressive design and tough hardware are tailored to handle the harshest terrains with confidence. The meat of this addition is the high-performance suspension coupled with DSSV Multimatic suspension dampers and a factory-installed 3-inch lift.
What truly stands out, however, is how these Multimatic dampers shine even while driving on paved roads. They effortlessly smooth out bumps and tame the truck’s rugged nature, offering a surprisingly comfortable ride for daily driving.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2
When regular heavy-duty just isn’t enough, the Silverado HD ZR2 steps up. Designed for those who crave the rugged style and off-road capability of the Silverado ZR2 with the added bonus of massive towing power, this truck delivers on all fronts. While it may not match the nimbleness of the lighter Colorado ZR2, it still packs plenty of off-road-focused features. Here’s what sets it apart:
- 1.5-inch suspension lift kit for enhanced off-road clearance
- Multimatic DSSV dampers
- 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires mounted on 18-inch Gloss Black wheels
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Autotrac 2-speed transfer case
- Aluminum front skid plate and a steel shield protecting the transfer case
- Off-road-specific front and rear bumpers with a blacked-out fascia for a rugged look
- Flow Tie emblem for increased airflow
A 8,266 pound XXL size Silverado ZR2 feels surprisingly potent on a rough trail or a dirt track. Credit goes to the Multimatic DSSV dampers, which excel at keeping the truck stable, preventing it from feeling like it’s on the verge of tipping or behaving unpredictably, even when pushed hard.
Interestingly, for an off-roader, the Silverado 2500 ZR2’s suspension is slightly softer than what you’d expect from a heavy-duty pickup. This is where the Multimatic dampers shine: their initial softness transitions into firmer action during more intense suspension cycles. This dual functionality makes the ZR2 a pleasure to drive both on pavement and, at moderate speeds, off-road.
Under the hood, the ZR2 comes equipped with a standard 401-hp 6.6-liter V8 gas engine or an optional 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8, generating an impressive 975 lb-ft of torque at just 1,600 rpm. The result is not only effortless performance, but also a staggering maximum towing capacity of 18,500 pounds.
How Much Does the ZR2 Variant Costs on Chevrolet Trucks?
The ZR2 range in the Chevy truck lineup begins at just over $48,000, with the Colorado ZR2 being the most affordable option to experience the flagship off-road variant’s capabilities.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the prices for each ZR2 variant across the Chevy truck lineup, along with the premium it commands over the standard variant it replaces:
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Starting price of ZR2: $48,695
- Starting price of lower variant (Z71): $40,500
- Difference: $6,600
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Starting price of ZR2: $69,900
- Starting price of lower variant (High Country): $62,700
- Difference: $7,200
- Chevrolet Silverado HD
- Starting price of ZR2: $70,600
- Starting price of lower variant (LTZ): $56,800
- Difference: $13,800
Is ZR2 better than Z71?
A common question among potential Chevy truck buyers is which is the better option: ZR2 or Z71. However, this comparison isn’t entirely fitting, as the Z71 and ZR2 models occupy different positions in the lineup and are designed to meet distinct needs.
If you’re into occasional off-roading, the Z71 might suit you well. But for serious off-road enthusiasts who love tackling tough trails, the ZR2 is a must-consider option. Its advanced suspension system makes it ideal for long road trips, especially on snowy or muddy mountain roads.
The ZR2 also offers a surprisingly smoother ride, reducing the bouncing you might get with the Z71, making it more balanced on regular roads. The Multimatic dampers work wonders, taming the truck’s excesses and making it comfortable for everyday use.
However, you need to get it that both these trucks are essentially off-road biased and aren’t the most comfortable option if the bulk of your driving is in civilization.
Big wheels, off-road tires, and a higher ride height all impact comfort. Chevrolet has other options in their lineup that offer a smoother and more cushioned ride.
If you’re still undecided about which factory lifted Chevy truck is right for you, we’re here to assist. Feel free to reach out or stop by to see these trucks up close and decide which one suits your lifestyle. At Schumacher Used, our team is ready to guide you through the process!
The expert staff at Schumacher Used in New Jersey is here to help you select the ideal GM truck for your lifestyle. We have six convenient locations in Northern New Jersey.
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