2025 CHEVY COLORADO ZR2 BISON AN OFF-ROAD BEAST!
By NITISH S. RELE – motoringflorida@gmail.com
Located in the Sierra Nevada is a 22-mile-long Rubicon Trail, an off-road adventurer’s dream route of steep summits, narrow pathways and harsh terrain. The part road/4X4 route has served as a testing ground for numerous vehicles, including of course our most recent test-drive, the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison. Hardcore off-road enthusiasts are assured that the midsize truck will haul and kick dirt with flying colors on any challenging trail. And with the etched imprint of the off-road aftermarket manufacturer (AEV) American Expedition Vehicles, it’s a win-win.
Under the hood of the 4-wheel-drive, 5-foot bed Crew Cab pickup resides a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine blasting off 310 horsepower @ 5600 rpm and 430 pounds-feet of torque @ 3000 rpm. It is coupled with a seamless 8-speed auto gear box. Suspension is handled by an independent coil-shock front and a solid axle rear. Both ends get spool-valve dampers to warrant an uncompromised ride, on a dirt road or highway. An electric power rack-and-pinion steering ensures a nicely damped trip. Tow capacity peaks at a laudable 5,500 pounds.
Similar to its bigger sibling, Silverado ZR2 Bison, AEV-embossed bumpers and underbody skid plates for front, rear differential, transfer case and fuel tank grace the exterior. With ground clearance at 10.7 inches, the Colorado delivers an off-road approach angle of 38.2, departure of 26 degrees, and breakover of 26.9 degrees. LED headlights surround a “flowtie” front and ZR2 and Bison emblems on each side. The radiant red tint coat is worth the $495 tag.
This may be a midsize truck in name but there is plenty of space in the well laid-out cabin with supportive eight-way power heated/cooled front seats. Of course, one cannot help but notice AEV insignias on front headrests and floor liners. Sitting atop the straightforward dash is an easy-to-use 11.3-inch infotainment screen along with a physical volume knob. Readings on the 11-inch digital information center are large and clear for the driver. Thoughtful touches include built-in Google Assistant and maps, along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other no-cost goodies are dual auto a/c, heated tilt/telescopic steering column, spray-on bedliner, lockable storage-bin tailgate, wireless phone charger and remote start.
Along with front/rear lock differentials and 2-speed transfer case, standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes, stability and traction control, hill start assist, blind zone and forward collision alerts, auto emergency brakes, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.
So, why should you buy the Colorado Bison? Well, it’s not a full-size pickup but serves the purpose of one with notable cargo and towing capability, while delivering a robust and confident ride. And if you plan to go off the beaten trail frequently, this unrivaled off-road performer is a no-brainer!
COLORADO ZR2 BISON
Tires: 315/70R17 mud/terrain
Wheelbase: 131 inches
Length: 212.7 inches
Width: 84.4 inches
Height: 81.8 inches
Fuel capacity: 21 gallons
City/highway: 16 mpg
Base price: $49,600
Price as tested: $65,840
Web site: www.chevrolet.com