Previewed by a concept car launched in 2014 and spotted testing under heavy camouflage numerous times in 2016, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 has finally made its official debut in production form at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The most extreme iteration of the Colorado to date, the ZR2 is highly capable on the unbeaten path, yet it can still pull campers, trailers, and other gear.

With its raised suspension and and more aggressive body lines, the ZR2 is unique not only among other Colorado trucks, but in its segment too. However, far more impressive than its looks is the Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) damper technology is uses. Developed by racing gear manufacturer Multimatic, these dampers are actually borrowed from high-profile supercars and race cars. Up until now, they have been fitted in the Aston Martin One-77, Mercedes-AMG GT, Ford GT, and even the Red Bull Formula One cars that won four championship titles from 2010 to 2013. The technology isn't exactly new to Chevy, which uses similar dampers in the Camaro Z/28, but it's a first for the pickup truck industry.

Chevy says that putting Multimatic DSSV dampers in the Colorado ZR2 gave the truck an unprecedented balance of on- and off-road performance, as well as exceptional performance in a variety of scenarios, from rock crawling and tight two-track trails to high-speed desert running.

Another ground-breaking feature in the Colorado ZR2 is the sophisticated four-wheel drive system, which includes class-exclusive electronic-locking differentials front and rear and the company's AutoTrac transfer case. The ZR2 thus offers nine drive configurations, from simple 2WD to 4WD Lo with locked transfer case, and locked front and rear differentials.

More good news comes from the drivetrain department, as the ZR2 can be had with any of the standard Colorado engines, including the diesel, which makes it the only extreme production truck with an oil burner option. Both engines remain stock, meaning that the 3.6-liter V-6 comes with 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque on tap, while the Duramax diesel cranks out 181 horses and 369 pound-feet of twist. Despite the off-road upgrades, the ZR2 can still tow up to 5,000 pounds or carry 1,100 pounds of payload. Awesome!

Continue reading for the full story.

Why it matters

Judging by the features listed above, the Colorado ZR2 promises to be a big success and it's a solid candidate for the truck of the year award in my book. And, this news piece doesn't even include all the cool features that come with it. But we're not ignoring. We're working on a comprehensive review for the ZR2 as we speak, so make sure you stay tuned for a deep dive into the truck's new technology and that race-inspired suspension system.

|