2026 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition – Specs and Features – If you’re an adventure seeker who demands a truck that can handle the roughest terrain without breaking a sweat, the 2026 Chevy Colorado is calling your name. This beastly midsize pickup builds on Chevrolet’s rugged ZR2 platform with exclusive upgrades from American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), making it the most capable off-roader in its class. Whether you’re tackling desert dunes, rocky trails, or muddy backroads, the ZR2 Bison combines raw power, innovative engineering, and everyday usability. In a world where midsize trucks are evolving to blend street smarts with trail dominance, this edition stands out for its uncompromised focus on extreme capability. Let’s dive into what makes this truck a game-changer for car enthusiasts and weekend warriors alike.
Engine and Performance: Power That Packs a Punch
At the heart of the 2026 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition beats a 2.7-liter TurboMax inline-four engine, delivering an impressive 310 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and a torque-rich 430 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm. This turbocharged powerhouse isn’t just about numbers—it’s tuned for real-world thrills, providing instant low-end grunt for climbing steep inclines or merging onto highways with confidence.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, the powertrain shifts smoothly between gears, whether you’re crawling over boulders or cruising at speed. Expect a 0-60 mph sprint in about 6.8 seconds, making it surprisingly quick for a truck loaded with off-road gear. For practical insight, if you’re towing a trailer on mixed terrain, the transmission’s adaptive logic helps maintain momentum without hunting for gears— a tip from seasoned off-roaders: always engage the low-range transfer case for those technical sections to maximize control.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the powertrain highlights:
- Engine Type: Turbocharged 2.7L I4
- Horsepower: 310 hp @ 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 430 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with overdrive
- Drivetrain: 4WD with power-locking front and rear differentials
This setup ensures the ZR2 Bison feels alive, whether you’re blasting through whoops or idling at a remote campsite.
Off-Road Capabilities: Built for the Wild
The true magic of the 2026 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition shines off the pavement, where it’s engineered for abuse. Collaborating with AEV, Chevrolet amps up the ZR2’s already formidable setup with components tested in grueling events like the Best in the Desert series. Think of it as a factory-hot rod for overlanding—no need for aftermarket mods right out of the gate.
Suspension and Tires: Soak Up the Punishment
The suspension is a standout, featuring upgraded Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers (front dampers inside the frame for protection, rears mounted outside for better articulation). Hydraulic front and rear bump stops soften high-speed landings from jumps, preventing bottoming out and extending component life. A practical tip: These dampers excel on high-speed desert runs, but for slow rock crawling, switch to the softer “Tour” mode via the drive selector to improve traction.
Rolling on massive 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires mounted to 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, this truck offers the largest rubber in the midsize segment. These aggressive mud-terrain tires bite into loose surfaces like loose gravel or sand, with deep treads that self-clean for consistent grip.
Protection and Approach Angles: Armor for the Trail
No off-roader is complete without solid armor, and the ZR2 Bison delivers with five Boron steel skid plates guarding the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank. This underbody protection shrugs off rocks and debris that would shred lesser trucks.
Key off-road geometry metrics include:
| Metric | ZR2 Bison Value | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Clearance | 12.2 inches | Clears massive obstacles effortlessly |
| Approach Angle | 38.6 degrees | Steeper climbs without scraping |
| Departure Angle | 25.1 degrees | Easier exits from deep ruts |
| Breakover Angle | 25.0 degrees | Bends over crests without high-centering |
These angles outperform most rivals, making the Bison ideal for technical trails. For example, during a Moab adventure, that extra clearance could mean the difference between a scenic overlook and a tow truck call.
Interior and Comfort: Rugged Meets Refined
Step inside the 2026 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition, and you’ll find a cabin that’s tough yet surprisingly comfortable—perfect for long hauls or post-trail naps. The crew cab seats five with perforated leather-appointed front buckets (ventilated via the optional ZR2 Convenience Package), offering firm support for bumpy rides. The rear bench is class-competitive, with ample legroom for adults, though taller passengers might prefer the front.
Unique touches like optional yellow seatbelts add a pop of color and personality, while a heated steering wheel keeps things cozy on chilly mornings. Storage is thoughtful: Lockable in-bed compartments and a multi-position tailgate make gear organization a breeze. Insight for buyers: Opt for the power-sliding rear window if you haul kayaks or bikes—it transforms the bed into an open-air hauler without tools.
Technology and Infotainment: Connected and Capable
Chevy keeps the tech stack modern without overwhelming the driver. The 11.3-inch touchscreen runs Google Built-In for seamless navigation and voice commands, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for your playlists. An 11-inch digital gauge cluster displays off-road metrics like pitch, roll, and altitude in real-time—handy for monitoring stability on uneven ground.
Upgrade to the Bose 7-speaker system for immersive audio during road trips, or add underbody cameras to spot hazards without dismounting. A pro tip: Use the trailering app on the infotainment to monitor trailer sway; it’s a lifesaver for safe towing on winding forest roads.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind On and Off the Road
Safety doesn’t take a backseat in the ZR2 Bison. Standard Chevy Safety Assist includes forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking (front and rear), blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a hitch-view backup camera. Optional additions like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system enhance visibility in tight spots.
For off-roaders, rear pedestrian alert adds an extra layer when maneuvering in campsites. These features make the truck forgiving for novice drivers while giving experts the tools to push limits safely.
Towing, Payload, and Fuel Economy: Balanced for Versatility
Despite its off-road focus, the 2026 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition tows up to 6,000 pounds—enough for a small camper or ATV trailer—thanks to integrated trailer brake control. Payload tops out at 1,445 pounds, so you can load up gear without worry.
Fuel economy is a realistic 16 mpg city/highway/combined, reflecting the truck’s burly tires and 4WD setup. To stretch those miles, alternate between Eco and Normal modes on pavement; it’s a simple swap that can add 10-15% efficiency on mixed driving.
Pricing starts around $62,000 MSRP (based on ZR2 estimates, with Bison upgrades pushing it higher), offering strong value for the capability. Compare it to rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor, and the Bison’s superior ground clearance often tips the scales.
Wrapping Up: Why the ZR2 Bison Rules the Trail
The 2026 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition isn’t just a truck—it’s a ticket to untamed adventures, blending blistering performance, bombproof protection, and smart tech in a midsize package that punches above its weight. Whether you’re a daily driver dipping into dirt roads or a hardcore overlander chasing sunsets, this edition delivers without compromise. Its AEV-tuned upgrades ensure it’ll outlast the competition, turning every drive into an epic story.
For a quick reference, here’s a summary table of the key specs:
| Category | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Engine & Power | 2.7L Turbo I4, 310 hp, 430 lb-ft torque, 8-speed auto, 4WD |
| Off-Road Specs | 12.2″ ground clearance, 35″ MT tires, Multimatic DSSV dampers, 5 Boron skid plates |
| Dimensions | 212.7″ length, 76.3″ width, 73.8″ height, 4,926 lb curb weight |
| Towing/Payload | 6,000 lbs towing, 1,445 lbs payload |
| Fuel Economy | 16 mpg combined |
| Interior/Tech | 5 seats, 11.3″ touchscreen, Google Built-In, Bose audio (opt.) |
| Safety | Chevy Safety Assist suite, optional 360° cameras |
| Pricing | ~$62,000 MSRP (est.) |
