Delving Into the 2014 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Concept: Beyond the Pavement Boundaries
In 2014, Chevrolet threw down the gauntlet in the off-road vehicle arena with the unveiling of the Colorado ZR2 Concept. A potential successor of the standard midsize Colorado, this ambitious concept is meant to elevate off-road prowess with the integration of a 2.8L Duramax diesel engine, promising an exciting addition to the Colorado lineup in the near future.
Style Meets Substance
The ZR2 concept takes its design cues from the established production Colorado Z71, melding an aggressive aesthetic with enhanced capabilities that pay homage to Chevrolet's celebrated ZR2 production models. Tony Johnson, the Colorado marketing manager, points out that this design philosophy aims at extending the joy of driving off the asphalt and into the great outdoors. While the ZR2 is indeed a nod to Chevrolet's illustrious off-road heritage, the company also views it as a means of gauging public interest in the untapped potential of the Colorado range.
A Formidable Off-Road Stature
Distinctive in its imposing demeanor, the Colorado ZR2 concept features a stance four inches wider than its production counterpart, the Colorado Z71. Newly designed front and rear fascias ensure greater approach and departure angles, a crucial element for successful off-road navigation. This robust build is complemented by an increased ground clearance and integral skid plates, with a wider track adding to the stability during off-road excursions.
Designed for the Trail
The ZR2 concept stands out with an approach and departure angles of 30.7 and 22.7 degrees respectively, edging out the Z71's 25/21 degrees. The innovative off-road fascias significantly diminish front and rear overhang, enhancing the vehicle's ability to tackle challenging terrains. Additional functional features include integrated flip-out aluminum tow hooks, and a built-in winch on the front fascia. These enhancements, as pointed out by Johnson, are not mere cosmetic add-ons but are specifically targeted at facilitating safe and sustainable off-road driving.
Advanced Suspension and Traction Control
The Colorado ZR2 concept sports mono-tube coil-over shock absorbers developed by King™, promising superior suspension travel. The vehicle is also fitted with electronic-locking front and rear differentials, a feature that optimizes off-road traction by distributing torque to the specially designed 275/65R18 off-road tires. These tires are mounted on custom 18-inch aluminum multi-spoke wheels, lending an additional layer of ruggedness to the vehicle's overall demeanor.
Bringing the Outdoors Inside
On the inside, the ZR2 carries forward the mix of comfort and functionality found in the production Colorado Z71. The interior features the ZR2 logos prominently displayed on the front-seat headrests, floor liners, and instrument cluster. Additional electronic accessories such as AUX toggle and winch operation controls have been neatly integrated into the center stack, further reinforcing the ZR2's off-road warrior persona.
The Powerhouse: 2.8L Duramax Diesel Engine
At the heart of the Colorado ZR2 concept is the new 2.8L Duramax diesel engine. Estimated to deliver 181 horsepower and a torque of 369 lb-ft, this engine promises to provide the muscle necessary for navigating the toughest terrains. This turbo-diesel engine, belonging to a global family of four-cylinder engines, boasts a variable-geometry turbocharger for optimal power and efficiency. Johnson expects this addition to the engine lineup to bring a new level of efficient capability to the midsize truck segment.
The ZR2 Concept heralds Chevrolet's vision of taking the Colorado range to unprecedented heights. This concept not only amplifies the brand's off-road legacy but also sends a clear message to its rivals – that Chevrolet is ready to redefine the rules of the off-road game.
