Chevy pondering Colorado ZR2; manual transmission confirmed for base model
Mon, 25 Nov 2013
After years of watching the market for compact and midsize pickup trucks dry up, we're finally starting to see some genuinely exciting events unfold. Aside from bringing the first all-new vehicle to this market in years, not to mention an upcoming diesel engine, Automotive News reports that Chevy is considering the development of a special off-road version of the 2015 Chevy Colorado, which could bring back the ZR2 moniker.
Introduced in 1994 on the Chevy S-10 (and most recently used on a 2009 SEMA concept truck), the ZR2 trim level brought extensive modifications for better off-road driving, which gave the S-10 and Blazer things like a wider track, lifted suspension, meaty tires and upgraded axles and suspension. It isn't clear what kind of changes Chevy would make to Colorado ZR2, but in speaking with AN, GM North America President Mark Reuss indicated that there is room above the Colorado Z71 for an off-road variant.
In addition to the possible ZR2 model, Chevy will – cue the angelic chorus – definitely offer the Colorado with a manual transmission. Left out of the official press release from the truck's LA Auto Show debut, AN says that this transmission will be available only on the extended-cab, two-wheel-drive WT trim level.
By Jeffrey N. Ross