Title: The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison: A Beastly Off-Road Machine
Introduction:
In Landers, California, sitting behind the wheel of the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, I am surrounded by the stunning landscape of Johnson Valley. The rocky trails, known as the Hammers, and the undulating creosote bushes on the valley floor set the stage for an exhilarating off-road adventure. With Baja mode engaged, I am ready to experience the full capabilities of this powerful truck.
Performance on the Trail:
The regular ZR2 already boasts impressive off-road capabilities, but the Bison takes it a step further. Equipped with front and rear jounce control dampers in addition to the Multimatic DSSV dampers and 10.0 inches of front travel and 11.6 inches of rear travel, the Bison can handle the harshest impacts effortlessly. Even at high speeds, the truck remains stable and comfortable. The off-road goddess in me is exhilarated as I dominate the whoops with ease.
Key Specifications:
– Engine: Turbocharged 2.7-Liter I4
– Output: 310 Horsepower / 430 Pound-Feet
– Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic
– Ground Clearance: 12.2 Inches
– Price As Tested: $55,000 (est.)
– On Sale: Late 2023
Impressive Rock Climbing Abilities:
To test the Bison’s rock climbing capabilities, I tackle the challenging Little Johnson trail, a route used in the King Of The Hammers off-road race. The Bison’s geometry and armor prove valuable as I navigate steep ledges and big boulders. With an approach angle of 38.2 degrees, a departure angle of 26 degrees, and a breakover angle of 26.9 degrees, this truck is well-prepared for any obstacle. The five steel skid plates and rocker panels ensure protection, although some scraping is inevitable.
Superior Off-Road Potential:
In terms of off-road prowess, the Bison surpasses even the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, boasting greater ground clearance and an impressive breakover angle. Engaging the Terrain mode and utilizing the one-pedal driving function allows for precise control and a smoother ride. The rear differential lock and front locker provide exceptional traction when faced with challenging situations. The Bison’s off-road capabilities truly impressed and rewarded me with an unforgettable adventure.
Exterior and Interior Features:
The Bison’s appearance matches its performance, with a 3.0-inch lift and wider stance that exude a rugged and confident aura. The Chevrolet “flowtie” badge on the grille adds to its intimidating presence. Inside, the cabin offers comfort and style, with contrasting stitching, AEV branding on the seats and floor liners, and thoughtful knee pads for enhanced support during intense off-road maneuvers.
Infotainment and Technology:
The Bison features an 11.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment, offering Google Maps integrated into the native navigation system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available for seamless connectivity. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed off-road pages, providing essential information such as pitch, roll, altitude, and GPS coordinates. Chevrolet prioritizes map accuracy with a numerical compass, catering to map enthusiasts like myself.
Minor Complaints:
While the interior design is generally impressive, Chevrolet’s decision to bury the headlight controls within the infotainment system is an inconvenience. A mechanical switch would be more user-friendly, especially during off-road adventures where quick adjustments are necessary. Additionally, the Bison sacrifices towing and hauling capabilities compared to the standard Colorado. Potential buyers must consider whether the focus on off-road performance outweighs their specific hauling needs.
Price Expectations and Competition:
While Chevrolet has yet to announce pricing for the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, estimates suggest starting prices around $55,000. For those seeking the best all-around off-road truck, the Bison is a highly desirable choice. However, competitors such as the upcoming Ford Ranger Raptor and the Tacoma TRD Pro, which offers a powerful hybrid powerplant, may challenge its dominance. Nonetheless, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison presents a compelling package that may entice off-road enthusiasts to join the Bison family.
In conclusion, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is a remarkable off-road truck that delivers exceptional performance and versatility. Boasting impressive capabilities, stunning aesthetics, and advanced technology, this truck embodies the spirit of adventure. While minor issues exist, such as the placement of controls, they are easily outweighed by the overall strengths of this formidable machine. I am personally tempted to add a Bison to my own collection, a testament to its undeniable appeal. With its release on the horizon, the 2024 Colorado ZR2 Bison is destined to captivate the off-road community.