New generation of the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado is on the way, and reportedly the automaker is already working on the rugged versions ZR2. Thanks to some quick eyes, we have spy shots of the latest 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 model that is caught in the parking lot. Alongside this truck, we also noticed the upcoming GMC Canyon AT4X that’s standing on its right side.
In terms of the overall design, the new trucks appear to be roughly the same size as the original one. Unfortunately, the body of ZR2 is camouflage on the front end, but we noticed a different nose compared to the original and some mild visual changes. We expect the new Colorado ZR2 to share its powertrain with the GMC Canyon AT4X model. So, according to many reports, both trucks will be powered by a new turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine.
2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Design
At first glance, the forthcoming 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 looks more robust than the original model. However, it seems that’s roughly the same size as the current model. Recently, this truck has been caught testing in a parking lot alongside the GMC Canyon AT4X model. First of all, the body of the new ZR2 is heavily camouflaged in the front end, but we immediately noticed a different nose. Also, the new truck has a high-mounted headlights at each corner and a horizontal LED strip above them.
Interestingly, as the GMC Canyon AT4X, the Colorado ZR2 comes with the same cameras in the center of the grille. Off-road performance is the main weapon of this truck. Thanks to that, the Colorado ZR2 will be able to tackle any rugged terrain. It wears 33 inches in diameter Goodyear Wrangler Territory all-terrain tires, performance-oriented Multimatic DSSV shock absorbers, skidplates, unique bumpers, just like its sibling Silverado ZR2. Additionally, you can count on a power up/down tailgate, called “Multi-Flex” tailgate. This is the same version as the Chevrolet’s MultiPro tailgate.
Cabin Features
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will come with a new cabin, which is a big upgrade. According to our close source, the ZR2 is offering more modern design and better technology. We also expect to see a better-integrated accent trim, high-end leather, that will definitively help this truck to compete with more luxurious trim levels of the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
The ZR2 also comes with an updated dashboard and infotainment/gauge cluster screens. At this point, we don’t have information will GM’s clever “Super Cruise” semi-autonomous driving system be offered, or it will only be on the top-spec High Country trim.
2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Engine Specs
Beneath the hood, the forthcoming 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will likely share its engine with the GMC Canyon AT4X model. Reportedly, both models will use a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder that makes 310 hp and 420 lb.-ft. As you may notice, the same unit is powering the Silverado ZR2 model as well. However, there’s a rumor that the version of this powerplant under the AT4X could provide 325 hp and 380 lb.-ft.
The engine under the Silverado is using a eight-speed automatic transmission, and we expect same on the Colorado model. However, alongside the engine above, the Silverado also offers 5.3-liter V8 engine that makes 335 horses, 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horses, and the 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel inline-6 producing 277 horsepower.
How Much Can the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Tow?
As far as we know, the new 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will not depart in towing numbers from the original one. So, expect this truck to tow around 13,300 pounds.
Price, Release Date
We expect the new 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 to be in the same ballpark as its sibling, the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2. So, the price of $60,000 would be the sweet spot for the starting price point. As we mentioned, the upcoming truck has been spied testing on a parking lot alongside the GMC Canyon AT4X model.
Nevertheless, you need to wait for the next year to get the new Colorado ZR2 model. For folks who don’t need the off-road equipment, a standard version is also on the way.
Source: motor1.com