2017–2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: Specs, History, Guide

2017–2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 (2nd Gen): The Multimatic-Empowered Mid-Size Benchmark

Historical Context and Development Background

When Chevrolet reintroduced the Colorado to the U.S. for the 2015 model year, it found a mid-size pickup segment hungry for something more than work-truck utility. The ZR2 answered that call for 2017, revealed in production form after the well-received ZR2 Concept had previewed the formula: increased ride height, widened track, substantive underbody protection, and locking differentials. The headline, however, was the adoption of Multimatic’s DSSV (Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve) dampers—technology proven in premier motorsport and previously seen in Chevy’s own Camaro Z/28. This was the first mass-production pickup to run DSSV, and it changed expectations for both on-road composure and high-velocity control off-pavement.

Corporate intent was clear: create a credible Baja-capable platform that also retains daily-driver civility and towing usefulness. The ZR2 slotted above Z71 in Chevrolet’s hierarchy with a roughly 2-inch suspension lift and a track widened by approximately 3.5 inches versus standard Colorado. Superstructure changes were thoughtful rather than theatrical: reprofiled ends for improved clearance, functional skid protection, rocker guards, and 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac rubber on 17×8 wheels. Front and rear selectable electronic locking differentials, a two-speed transfer case, and specific off-road calibrations rounded out the package.

On the competitive front, the ZR2 arrived into a reshuffling class. The Tacoma TRD Pro was the entrenched rival, while the Ford Ranger returned to the U.S. with an FX4 package during the run, and Jeep added the Gladiator Rubicon later in the period. Against this backdrop, the ZR2’s DSSV hardware and dual e-lockers gave it a distinctive technical edge. Chevrolet also leaned into motorsport development; near-stock ZR2 entries campaigned in long-distance desert events with Chad Hall Racing, underscoring durability and the efficacy of the Multimatic dampers.

Engines and Technical Specifications

The ZR2 offered a choice of powerplants: the high-revving LGZ 3.6-liter direct-injected gasoline V6 paired to an 8-speed automatic, or the torque-rich LWN 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel four backed by a 6-speed automatic. Both were integrated with a two-speed Autotrac transfer case and driver-selectable front and rear locking differentials.

Driving Experience and Handling Dynamics

What separates the ZR2 is the way it stitches together bandwidth. On pavement, the DSSV dampers deliver an un-trucklike precision, keeping body control tidy without resorting to punishing spring rates. The spool-valve internals offer highly repeatable, precisely metered damping; that means sharpedged impacts, mid-corner heaves, and corrugated surfaces are absorbed in a way that lesser monotube setups can’t quite emulate. Steering is light but accurate, and the wider track helps stability, especially on quick transitions.

Off-road, the calibration breadth shows. There’s meaningful travel and effective bump control at higher speeds, yet the ZR2 also feels composed when crawling. The selectable front and rear e-lockers transform traction allocation on loose, ledgy climbs, and the recontoured front and rear ends improve clearance where it matters. The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires (265/65R17) are a sensible compromise: aggressive enough lugs for dirt and snow, yet predictable on wet pavement. The V6/8-speed combination offers crisp part-throttle response and eager midrange; the diesel’s low-end torque is the connoisseur’s choice for crawling or towing on grades, backed by long-legged gearing from the 6-speed automatic.

Full Performance Specifications

Independent instrumented testing across the run has produced broadly consistent figures for the V6 and diesel variants. Differences arise from cab configuration, options, and surface conditions, but the envelope is well understood.

Variant Breakdown and Notable Editions

Across the 2017–2022 span, Chevrolet kept the core ZR2 formula intact while adding special editions and a mid-cycle front-end update.

Note: Chevrolet did not publish comprehensive production totals by trim or special edition for the ZR2 line; the Bison was sold in limited quantities but without official numeric release figures.

Ownership Notes: Maintenance, Parts, and Service

• Powertrain service: The 3.6L LGZ uses a timing chain and direct injection; follow the oil-life monitor and severe-duty schedule if the truck sees frequent off-road, dusty, or towing use. The 2.8L Duramax requires periodic diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) care and has a manufacturer-specified timing belt replacement interval (commonly referenced at 150,000 miles under normal duty). Front and rear differentials, as well as the transfer case, should be serviced more frequently after water crossings or sustained severe use.
• Transmission notes: Early calibrations of the 8-speed automatic (8L45) used with the V6 were known for torque-converter shudder under certain conditions; GM issued updated fluid and calibration procedures addressing it. Verify service history for fluid exchange with the later-spec fluid. The 6L50 paired with the Duramax has a straightforward service schedule; heat is the enemy when towing, so proactive fluid maintenance is wise.
• Suspension and DSSV: The Multimatic DSSV dampers are durable and rebuildable; after extensive high-speed off-road work, a refresh can restore peak performance. Steering, ball joints, and control-arm bushings hold up well if tires and alignment are kept within spec; heavy aftermarket wheels/tires accelerate wear.
• Brakes and tires: The factory 17-inch wheels and Duratrac tires offer a useful balance for mixed surfaces; rotation schedules matter to keep noise and wear in check. Four-wheel disc brakes provide consistent pedal feel; use severe-duty pads if frequent mountain towing is planned.
• Parts availability: Mechanical and body components are widely available through Chevrolet and the aftermarket. AEV-specific Bison components (skid plates, bumpers) are supported through AEV. Core wear parts are readily sourced.
• Restoration difficulty: Body and chassis are robust; rocker protection saves the cab from trail rash, but check underbody skid plates and mounting points for impact history. Electronic locker wiring and connectors should be inspected after deep water/mud use.

Cultural Relevance and Market Perspective

The ZR2 carved a distinctive identity by combining dual locking differentials with DSSV dampers—hardware usually reserved for specialized builds—into a showroom truck that could commute as cleanly as it could cross whoops. Media coverage consistently praised the damping sophistication and the range of capability. The AEV Bison collaboration became a halo for the platform, bringing hardened underbody protection normally seen on expedition builds into the factory realm.

Collector interest centers on low-mile, unmodified examples, with the Bison commanding a premium thanks to its factory armor and limited availability. Clean, well-optioned V6 trucks tend to be the easiest to live with day-to-day, while Duramax trucks attract buyers prioritizing torque, range, and controlled descent on steep terrain.

FAQ: Real-World Questions Answered

How reliable is the Colorado ZR2?
The core mechanicals are solid when maintained. Known items include the early 8L45 torque-converter shudder on some V6 trucks (addressed by updated fluid/calibration) and typical diesel emissions ancillaries (DEF heaters, NOx sensors) on Duramax models. Regular differential and transfer-case service is advisable for trucks used off-road.

What’s the difference between ZR2 and Z71?
ZR2 adds a 2-inch lift, a roughly 3.5-inch wider track, Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear selectable electronic lockers, more aggressive tires, and additional skid/rocker protection. Z71 is an off-road-flavored trim, but without the DSSV dampers, lockers (it relies on a different traction strategy), track width, or clearance revisions of the ZR2.

V6 or Duramax diesel—which should I choose?
The 3.6L V6 is quicker and paired to an 8-speed, with responsive throttle mapping. The 2.8L Duramax offers superior low-speed control and towing confidence thanks to its torque curve and engine braking characteristics. For frequent highway commuting and mixed use, the V6 is the more effortless all-rounder; for technical trails and load pulling, the diesel has advantages.

What are the EPA fuel economy estimates?
Published estimates vary by cab and year, but ZR2 figures typically hover in the mid-to-high teens combined for the V6 and around the low 20s combined for the Duramax. Aggressive tires and lift mean a penalty versus non-ZR2 Colorados.

What are the towing and payload ratings?
ZR2 ratings are lower than other Colorado trims due to suspension and tire package. Typical ZR2 tow ratings are around 5,000 lb with either engine, with payload commonly in the ~1,000–1,100 lb range depending on configuration. Always verify the door-jamb label for a specific truck.

Any must-check items when buying used?
Inspect underbody skid plates and frame rails for impact damage, check operation of both lockers, verify transmission service history (especially fluid updates on early 8-speed trucks), and look for evidence of water/mud intrusion in wiring connectors and differentials on heavily off-roaded examples. For Duramax trucks, confirm DEF system health and timing belt service planning.

What does DSSV actually do for the ZR2?
DSSV (Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve) dampers use precisely machined spool valves instead of flexible shims, providing highly consistent damping curves and excellent control at both low and high piston speeds. In practice, that means better impact absorption off-road and superior body control on-road—key to the ZR2’s broad performance envelope.

Why the ZR2 Matters

At launch, the Colorado ZR2 reframed what a mid-size pickup could be from the factory: not simply a lifted trim package, but a deeply engineered chassis with genuine motorsport-grade damping and the traction tools to match. As a result, it remains a touchstone for enthusiasts who measure trucks not only by spec sheets but by the nuance of their ride, the clarity of their responses, and the breadth of their capability.