You might have heard the term “Z71” and know it relates to Chevy Trucks and their off-road prowess. That’s correct.
But there’s more to it, and you’re probably curious about the details.
What does the Z71 package include? Which vehicles come with it? What’s the real meaning behind it, and how did it originate?
Heck, does it even make sense or just a gimmick to impress truck enthusiasts? Should you buy one?
We’re here to answer all these questions in a clear and straightforward way.
What Exactly is Z71?
The ‘Z71’ label signifies Chevy vehicles tailored for off-road adventures.
Originally, Z71 was an RPO (Regular Production Option) code for GM’s off-road suspension package, available in various Chevy truck configurations. Introduced over 30 years ago, the Z71 lineup has grown and now even features its own unique trim level for Chevy trucks and SUVs.
The Z71 package, favored by enthusiasts, upgrades a Chevy truck’s off-road capabilities. It equips your Chevy with essential components that enhance ground clearance, ride quality, performance, and agility.
However, features can vary depending on the model, trim, and year of the vehicle. Additionally, not every Chevy vehicle offers the Z71 package or trim. Some models may only provide a Z71 appearance package.
While the traditional Z71 package prepares your truck for trails, the appearance package simply gives it a rugged look. This usually includes a “Z71” decal on the exterior, unique interior details, and other aesthetic enhancements.
How Did it Originate? The History of the Z71 Package
You’re probably wondering how the Z71 came into being and what it represents. Why did Chevy pick “Z71” to market their off-road performance package?
Automakers frequently use 2- or 3-letter/number codes to identify different packages and options for their vehicles. These codes streamline the ordering process and act as quick references. Z71, like other three-digit codes on GM vehicles, is known as a Regular Production Option (RPO).
Z71 is the code Chevy uses for their ‘suspension package’. These codes are primarily for internal use and weren’t initially intended for public knowledge. So, the Z71 designation wasn’t originally crafted by Chevy’s designers and marketers to highlight off-road performance.
Yet, car enthusiasts quickly recognized the code’s importance and began using it when discussing trucks and off-road builds. Over time, Chevy recognized this trend and officially adopted the Z71 label, that distinguished models like the Silverado and Tahoe with more rugged components beyond just a suspension upgrade, readying them for life beyond the pavement.
What You Get with the Z71 Package?
The Chevy Silverado pickup truck is the most popular vehicle that is associated with the Z71 package. It is offered as an optional extra across various permutations of its model configuration.
While the specifics of the package depend on the chosen trim and configuration, here’s a breakdown of the key features included in the 2024 Silverado’s Z71 off-road and protection package:
- Z71 Off-Road Suspension with Rancho Brand Shocks
Probably the cream of the Z71 package on the Silverado is its enhanced ride and handling on rough terrain. The package includes Rancho brand shocks, highly regarded in the off-road community. With Rancho shocks, you get better control and a smoother ride over rough terrain.
Additionally, the Z71 package offers a two-inch factory suspension lift, increasing the Silverado’s ground clearance for improved off-road capability.
- Autotrac Two-Speed Transfer Case
The Two-speed transfer Case from Autotrac is also a part of the Silverado Z71 package.
At the core, the work of a two-speed transfer case is to ensure that the transmission receives the appropriate amount of power at the right time. This is important for optimal performance, especially in varying driving conditions such as off-road or towing scenarios.
In low range, it changes the gear ratio to deliver more low-end power and torque, helping you tackle rocky paths and steep inclines with ease.
- Automatic Locking Rear Differential
Traction and control is a non-negotiable when navigating technical terrain, and an automatic locking rear differential is designed to deliver just that.
When one of the rear wheels loses traction, the ALRD kicks in to ensure both wheels receive equal power. This feature keeps your Silverado moving smoothly without getting stuck.
- Heavy-Duty Air Filter
The Z71’s heavy-duty air filter is built to withstand tough conditions. Its robust construction traps more dirt before it reaches the air intake, keeping dust and debris out of the engine. This not only ensures efficient engine performance but also protects surrounding parts from damage.
- Hill Descent Control
Steep descents become a breeze with hill descent control. This technology uses anti-lock braking to maintain a smooth, controlled descent without needing to press the brake pedal. The usefulness of this system becomes multifold when you are coming down hills carrying heavy loads.
- All-Terrain Tires and Dual-Outlet Exhaust
For LT and RST models, the Z71 package includes 18-inch Bright Silver painted aluminum wheels and all-terrain blackwall tires. LTZ trims get 20-inch wheels with all-terrain blackwall tires.
The Z71 Silverado is also identifiable with the polished dual-outlet exhausts integrated into the rear bumper; they not only look good but also improve exhaust flow, slightly boosting horsepower.
- Metal Underbody Shield and Brushed Metal Sill plates
Off-roading can be tough on your truck’s underbody. The Z71 package helps mitigate this risk with an underbody shield and brushed metal sill plates. These features protect the front underbody, oil pan, differential case, and transfer case, giving you the confidence to explore rough terrains.
- Front and rear all-weather floor liners with Z71 logo
The Z71 package also includes all-weather floor liners that feature a textured, anti-slip pattern. These liners trap debris and water while covering your carpet fully. They replace the factory floor mats and proudly display the Z71 logo on the front liners.
- Chevy Tec spray-on bedliner and rear wheelhouse liners
Finally, the Z71 package offers a Chevy Tec spray-on bedliner and rear wheelhouse liners. These components protect your truck’s rear wheelhouse area from damage caused by dirt, rocks, mud, road salt, and weather conditions.
Z71 Trim vs Package: What’s really the Difference?
You’ve likely realized that Chevy’s ‘Z71’ badge signifies off-road prowess. But there’s often confusion between the Z71 trim and the Z71 package. So, what’s the big deal?
The Z71 package is an off-road performance upgrade available for various Chevy trims. It’s packed with features tailored to enhance the vehicle’s off-road abilities. This means you can add Z71’s off-road perks to anything from a basic work truck to a more luxurious model.
On the other hand, the Z71 trim is a distinct model. Unlike the optional package, it’s a standalone trim that blends off-road features from the Z71 package with additional premium elements absent in lower trims. Z71 trims typically sport a unique look, featuring exclusive interior and exterior design touches that make them stand out.
Which Is Better: Z71 vs ZR2?
While the Z71 package or trim enhances Chevy trucks for off-road use, the ZR2 takes things up a notch.
Let’s break down the key differences and help you decide which is the best fit for you.
Which Chevy Models Feature ZR2 and Z71?
The ZR2 is a specialized trim available exclusively for Chevy trucks like the Silverado and Colorado. On the other hand, the Z71 trim isn’t limited to trucks; you can find it on Chevy SUVs such as the Tahoe, Suburban, and Traverse as well.
Notably, while the Colorado offers the Z71 as a unique trim, the Silverado includes it as an off-road package rather than a separate trim.
Which is More Capable Off-Road: Z71 or ZR2?
On the Colorado, the ZR2 trim features the ZR2 off road package that adds a bunch of extra features that make it perfect if you plan to go off-roading frequently or on more challenging trails.
The meat of this addition is the DSSV Multimatic suspension dampers along with a 3-inch factory-installed lift with high-performance suspension. This is an important addition since the Z71 trim on the Colorado doesn’t have a major suspension upgrade for off-road conditions.
When it comes to the Chevy Silverado, there is a considerable difference between the suspension setup of the ZR2 and Z71 models.
The Z71 offroad package on the Silverado adds a two-inch factory suspension lift and also equips the vehicle with Rancho brand shocks, a respected setup in the off-road domain.
The ZR2 on the other hand, upgrades the Silverado with a high-performance lifted suspension along with multimatic DSSV dampers.
Choosing Between Z71 and ZR2: Which Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing which factory lifted Chevy truck to go for, consider this:
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.
Which Chevy Vehicles Offer the Z71 Offroad Package?
Chevy’s Z71 off-road package has become a popular choice for adventurous drivers. While the Silverado includes the Z71 as a package option, other Chevy vehicles feature it as a separate trim.
1. Chevy Silverado Z71
The Silverado Z71 stands out as the most recognized model in the Z71 lineup, credited with popularizing the package. Available across multiple trims, the Z71 package focuses on flexibility across diverse terrains.
It achieves this through upgraded suspension, transfer case, wheels, and tires, along with skid plates, a heavy-duty air filter, floor liners, and spray-on liners. This impressive feature set comes at a relatively affordable price.
2. Chevy Colorado Z71
The Chevy Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck from the Chevy stable, but unlike the Silverado the Colorado gets a unique Z71 trim instead of an off road package.
While not as rugged as the Silverado, the Colorado Z71 still delivers additional luxury and off-road capabilities.
Apart from a bunch of convenience features, and aesthetic flare to the LT level, it includes a firmer suspension, all-terrain tires, hill descent control, and a limited-slip rear differential.
Four-wheel-drive with low range, and 8.9 inches of ground clearance, are another key highlights.
The Colorado Z71 is designed for more casual off-roaders and in a way also makes sense for someone who doesn’t want too many compromises to on road comfort and practicality.
3. Chevy Tahoe Z71 / Suburban Z71
Chevy’s biggest SUVs the Suburban and the Tahoe improve their off-road prowess thanks to the Z71 trim. Major differences include standard 4WD with two-speed transfer case, improved approach angle, hill descent control, all terrain tires, beefy metal skid plate, and a heavy duty engine air filter.
Visually, the Z71 trim replaces chrome accents with gloss black components and features multiple Z71 badges for a distinctive look.
Unlike the Silverado, the Tahoe and Suburban Z71 trims lack specialized off-road suspension components. However, the Z71 trim unlocks the “Off Road Capability Package,” which includes Magnetic Ride Control suspension, Air Ride Adaptive suspension, and electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD). The air suspension adds an extra two inches of ground clearance when fully raised.
4. Chevy Traverse Z71
The newest member of the Z71 family, the Chevy Traverse, may not compete with the Ford Bronco on trails, but it comes equipped with several robust off-road features. The highlight is a specially tuned twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system for off-road, complemented by a fully independent suspension for a smoother ride and optimal handling.
Other notable additions include terrain modes, hill descent control, off road friendly tires along with a better approach angle. The 2024 Traverse Z71 also looks the part, aligning with the rugged aesthetic of other Z71 trims.
How Much Does the Z71 Package Cost?
The Silverado is the only Chevy truck to offer a Z71 off-road package across multiple trims and configurations.
The cost of the Z71 Off-Road and Protection package for the Silverado depends on your chosen box, cab, and trim options. It’s important to note that Chevrolet sometimes offers discounts, so you might snag this package for a lot less depending on the timing and location of your purchase.
For the LT trim, the Z71 Off-Road and Protection package is priced at $2,210. On the RST trim, included features reduce the price to $1,910. The LTZ trim includes even more standard features, lowering the package price to $1,770.
You can find the exact pricing here: Chevy Silverado Configurator
Should you get the Z71 package: Is it Worth it?
The Chevy Silverado Z71 Package delivers substantial value. With skid plates, all-season floor mats, and liners alone potentially costing around $2,000 on other vehicles, getting these along with improved suspension, a transfer case, and specialized wheels for the same price is a fantastic deal. Moreover, Chevrolet occasionally offers discounts, making it an even sweeter proposition.
The Z71 package has evolved from a General Motors shorthand into a symbol of adventure and off-road prowess, especially cherished by long-time Chevrolet enthusiasts.
When you see the Z71 suspension package on a Silverado or Colorado model, you know you’re looking at a truck built for off-roading.
However, you need to consider your usage pattern before making the decision.
Even if you are not a hard core off-roader, this package is particularly beneficial for those living in areas with heavy snowfall.
On the other hand, if you don’t see yourself going off-road and your area has a milder climate, you might want to save the money. Off-road tires and suspension can make your Silverado less comfortable for daily commutes.
Find Your Perfect Vehicle at Schumacher Used
Now you know exactly what the ‘Z71’ moniker means. For enthusiasts seeking substantial off-road enhancements without breaking the bank, the Z71 package stands out as an excellent choice.
However, we strongly recommend understanding your requirements and usage pattern before making any decision.
For the best value, we recommend going for a used model instead of a new one. You can refer to our expert guide on buying a used truck.
Our expert team at Schumacher Used in New Jersey is here to help you find the right used Chevy SUV or truck to fit your lifestyle.
Contact us or directly choose from a large selection of used vehicles for sale online.
As one of the top-rated dealerships in the New Jersey state, with nearly a century of service, we pride ourselves on offering top quality used Chevy cars, trucks, and SUVs.
