SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1479178
2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 The Midsized Truck Gets More Power And Off-Road Capabilities by Elijah Sanchez Midsize pickups have come a long way from their beginnings, as they were originally designed for light duty, easy maneuverability, and maximum fuel economy. Chevrolet has since then, reimagined what a midsize pickup can be when in 2017 they debuted the Colorado ZR2. It was a fully capable off-road version of the midsized light-duty truck. Chevrolet continues to take midsize trucks to the next level to keep up with technological advancements and to redefine off-roading performance and comfort. Proving Colorado’s capabilities on the race course, pros like Chad Hall, son of legendary off-road racer Rod Hall, and who carries on the Hall Racing Team, can attest to the vehicle’s off-road power and potential. Hall most recently took tenth place in the SCORE Trophy Truck Spec Class at the 2021 SCORE Baja 500. When it comes to the Colorado ZR2 race truck, he has finished every race since its introduction. In addition, his off-road expertise has helped shape and attest to the upgraded components in the newest 2023 Colorado ZR2 model. Design Features The 2023 Colorado ZR2’s updated exterior maintains an aggressive, rugged look. A sleek, angular fascia is featured in the front of the truck, resting perfectly under the signature Chevrolet “bowtie” on the center of the grille. With an even more solid and powerful appearance than previous models, the 2023 ZR2’s updated exterior pairs well with the newly refined and intuitive interior that comes in four unique options, along with an expanded off-road accessory portfolio to choose from for even more customization. As the interior centerpiece, a standard 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen stands out in addition to the rounded outboard vents, available wrapped and stitched knee pads on the doors and center console, and exclusive red or yellow seat belts for the ZR2. To top it all off, the upgraded bed and tailgate design features offer class-leading functions. Standard on the ZR2 is a built-in, water-tight storage system with eight standard fixed tie-downs, and room for a total of 17 available additional tie-downs for more cargo bed functionality and storage options than ever before. Engine Taking a look under the hood, the 2023 Colorado ZR2 has some serious upgrades that take this model to the next level. A new 2.7L Turbo engine has three distinct output variants for horsepower, torque, and trailering capacity. The base 2.7 L turbo offers 237 horsepower, 259 (lb.-ft.) torque, and a max trailering of 3,500 lbs.– 18% more horsepower and 36% more torque than the current Colorado base engine. For drivers looking for even greater performance, an available 2.7L Turbo High-Output engine offers 310 horsepower, 430 torque, and up to 7,700 lbs. of max trailering capacity. The upgraded engine is paired with a new second-generation eight-speed automatic transmission, designed for smoother shifting, quicker downshifts, and greater low-speed mobility when off-road. Chassis and Performance All four of the new Colorado models also feature three reworked chassis setup options for greater customization and optimization for every on-the-road situation, from everyday drives to taking on more vertical off-road terrain. All models come standard with a 3.1-inch longer wheelbase compared to the current short box model. A front overhand also improves the truck’s approach angle for improved climbing capability. Taking on challenging terrain at high speeds typically requires substantial suspension modifications, but the 2023 ZR2 model offers superior capability with a high-performance 3-inch lifted suspension and racing-inspired Multimatic spool-valve dampers. The unique spool-valve design offers unlimited tuning variability for greater control and damping precision. ZR2 Desert Boss Package To honor Colorado’s desert-racing legacy, Chevrolet is offering a ZR2 Desert Boss package with special-edition racing-inspired features. This includes 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, an off-road bumper, front fascia, a sports bar with a sail panel, a roof-mounted light bar, an underbody camera, and “Desert Boss” decals and emblems for the ultimate racing look. Other accessory options for the ZR2 include a grille light bar, a removable assist step, off-road bumper lights, and an interior switch plate. Drive Modes To support the increased off-road and trailering capabilities for any driving condition, five new selectable driving modes are available, including: Normal, Tow/Haul, Off-Road, Terrain, and Baja. Created specifically for high-speed desert running, the Baja mode has specific throttle control, transmission shifting, and other drivetrain control calibrations. Technologies In addition to the enhanced driving modes, Colorado also features new safety and driver awareness features for an even more elevated driving experience. The standard Chevy Safety Assist package includes features such as: Forward Collison Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam® automatic high-beam assist. Additional new technologies also include a new 11.3-inch infotainment screen for an even more intuitive driving experience for accessing maps, music, vehicle functions, up to 10 camera views, a Trailering App, and a new Off-Road Performance Display App. Production for the 2023 Colorado is expected to begin during the first half of the year, with additional details and pricing to come soon. SCORE fans can expect to see the ZR2 in action in the upcoming seasons and look forward to cheering on teams like Hall Racing as they drive the Colorado to the finish line in Baja. SJ