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Chevy’s Colorado ZR2 Bison Promises to Be the Most Capable Mid-Size Truck Around

2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison 0 Hero
Photo: Chevrolet

From the GMC Canyon to the new Ford Ranger Raptor, the competition for the ultimate off-road-ready mid-size pickup is hotter than ever. But thanks to its Bison editions, Chevrolet’s Colorado ZR2 is still one of the most impressive trucks around, regardless of size. Now, the marque is back at it again for the 2024 version of the Bison, promising to be the most capable mid-size truck on the market.

2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison 1
Photo: Chevrolet

Chevy first teamed up with the off-road experts at American Expedition Vehicles back in 2019 for a special-edition version of the Colorado ZR2 and has even started giving these upgrade packages to the former’s half-ton Silverado and Silverado HD. Without compromising handling or safety, the upcoming Colorado will be capable of traversing any terrain and was even tested on the Rubicon Trail by off-road racer Chad Hall. Aside from an increased curb weight over its stock model, at 5,265lbs versus 4,940lbs, and a nominal difference in the approach angle, everything about this new Bison is an improvement (although it will be more expensive).

2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison 2
Photo: Chevrolet

Building on the already-impressive ZR2 base with the 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310hp and 430lb.ft of torque, the new Bison includes Multimatic front and rear Jounce Control Dampers to cushion hard landings, 35-inch OD Mud/Terrain tires (up from 32”) over AEV’s 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, AEV front and rear bumpers, including heavy-duty winch capability on the front, AEV fender flares, five boron steel skid plates (up from the three aluminum ones in the standard ZR2). The truck also boasts a best-in-class ground clearance (12.2”), approach angle (38.2 degrees), departure angle (26 degrees), and breakover angle (26.9 degrees). As for the max payload and max trailering, they will be at 1,050lbs and 5,500lbs, respectively.

2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison 3
Photo: Chevrolet

No price or release date was given thus far, but the 2024 Bison edition will certainly go for more than the standard 4WD Colorado ZR2, which retails for $48,295. You can head over to Chevy’s media site to learn more.