2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Is $41,000s Worth of Toughness

The ZR2 off-road trim level goes on sale this spring

Chevrolet has announced pricing for the high-performance, off-road Colorado ZR2 ahead of the model's launch this spring.

With a starting price of $40,995 (including a $940 destination fee), the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 costs about $1,000 less than its chief rival, the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro ($40,960 plus $885 destination). So what does Chevy's midsize pickup offer for 41 grand?

The automaker says the base Colorado ZR2 comes with all of the essential off-road technologies as standard. These include front and rear locking electronic differentials, Multimatic DSSV dampers, Autotrac transfer case, Modified rear axle with a 3.42 ratio, front and rear tracks widened 3.5 inches (89 mm) over a standard Colorado, a 2-inch (51-mm) lift for the suspension over a standard Colorado, and more.

The standard engine is a 308 hp 3.6-liter gasoline V6, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. An 186 hp 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel with a six-speed auto gearbox is available. ZR2 models are available in crew- or extended cab configurations.

Styling-wise, you'll recognize a Colorado ZR2 thanks to the more rugged appearance given by the modified bumpers, off-road rocker protection, exclusive ZR2 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels shod with 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires, aluminum skid plate, as well as the aggressive grille and hood.

Highlights among the standard features include heated front seats, wireless phone charging, rear sliding window, locking tailgate, a six-speaker audio system with Chevrolet MyLink Radio with Navigation and an 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen, cruise control, and a rearview camera.