I do really like both, but in the TRDs defense, it already comes with more power and torque, and similar performance with smaller tires. I’d be curious to see a TRD Pro with 35s like the Bison.
I think back 25ish years ago when the first ZR2's came out in the S10 platform.. to run 35" tires you needed a 6" suspension lift and it would still rub. Plus, the front end was not strong enough, you were constantly replacing ball joints and axle half shafts. It cost a lot to run 35's back then. Now. Here is a truck from the factory with 35's and a warranty! So awesome..
At only 4x the cost of that original Zr2. Jeep wranglers prior to 2007 cane with 30" tires. I had a 2006 wrangler sport and had to put a 3" lift just to barely fit 32s
Yep. True. Tires are THE number one thing that adds capability to a vehicle. Does not matter how much is spent on components. Slap 35s on a Honda civic and it will go anywhere. lol
Yall talking cost complaining vs a '94 S10 ZR2...this $hit has 10 cameras, space age flatscrreen dash, airbags, LOCKERS on both ends, electric magnetic suspemsion w hydro bumps, Intercooled Turbo with more horsepower and 100 more torque than a '95 Corvette LT1 from an aluminum 4 banger. Beadlock wheels, sick sliders and bumpers, software lockers etc; and Tie Rods that dont snap like the foolsize gm trucks lol.
I've had my Bison for about a month and they really made a special vehicle here. It's not just great offroad. I would have thought with those chunky tires that it would be deafening loud on pavement but it's surprisingly quiet. It's really a swiss army knife of trucks.
Man that’s one beautiful truck! I’ve never really been into Chevy trucks! But lately Chevy and GMC are really coming out with some awesome looking ones!👌🥰👍
I would love to see Chevy give you this for a year-long term test. You guys would be absolutely justified to beat it to heck and back on CO trails to see how well it holds up...
I've owned my '23 ZR2 for nearly a month now and I've really enjoyed it. This Bison model just looks next level! I'm hoping and expecting that GM/AEV will offer the bumpers/skid plates a la carte so that I can add some of that down the line!
Love it Andre, great job. I've done a 2020 z71 fully tricked out Trail Runner version and now in a 23' Trail Boss done up pretty well as well, next is a ZR2 maybe 2025 and just go all out. Looking forward to it, maybe by then they'll approach 400HP and a bit more torque as well. I'm really liking these mid sized trucks !!
Sure it can go off-road but will it be bricked and crippled by its electronics? Andrei’s new Chevy Colorado did not last too long. I’d hate to have any failures while off-roading.
The Colorado Bison would be perfect with the LZ0 Duramax and getting rid of the yellow interior stitching and urban camo panels (seriously who approved that?) then add in an option for a power rear slider commonly available or as an option in most trucks now. Then you have a perfect mid sized truck.
@sean47w7 they do that and I would have no problem submitting a pre-order. As of right now... will hold off for some refinement. Absolutely love the 3.0 in my dad's new AT4 he picked up.
@@kylejames538 I believe Chevy did that with the avalanche and got sued by Toyota… but they did have the little window that would slide that’s been on trucks for a little bit now is that what you’re referring to?
I had a ZR2 and sold it a year back. Going to look at the new TRD Pro, ZR2 and Ranger Raptor see which I like best. Midsize offroad pickup market is heating up I love it.
That is a great looking truck, especially the stance and tire proportions. GM engineers should have dropped the pressure down to approximately 15 psi....21 psi is too high for the rock crawling they were doing. I wonder how good the bead retention system is on those rims?
I LOVED my S10 ZR2 and have wanted a Colorado ZR2 since they came out. I test drove a '24 Canyon AT4X and was VERY disappointed by the power. I'm sure a tune could fix that, but my '08 Silverado 1500 with the 5.3 and 33×12.50's has gobs more power.
Since when is 310hp not enough???? I love riding off road with my friends that have almost double the horsepower but we are going the same speed…less than 30mph.
My friend bent his frame from the crunch zone when he was winching himself. And you can see the bed and the cab move from the frame bending. You can see it on sand hill climbs.
I think it's a much better and bigger truck, but I wouldn't get rid of my 2020 bison because it's got the excellent diesel motor. If the new truck would offer it with the diesel I would definitely order one.
Why they still went with the leaf spring is unideal for an off-roading condition. Coil spring would've been the better choice. This truck definitely has the potential for serious off-roading. Hope GM swap out the leaf spring to a coil spring. Overall, it has the proper look and features. More power and torque could be better improve. The V6 just seems like the proper engine for this midsize truck.
They still have time to add some Xtra horsepower and try. 325hp and 450 ft lb of trq. and better gearing with proper tranny reprogramming would make this the truck it should be.I f done the right way you would even get better mpg. I'm just hoping for the best. Gm is getting better. We will see how good they want to be.
I love this truck, but seriously skeptical about issues. I have 62000 miles on a 2019 and it already had a failed climate controls panel, temperature sensor, camshaft solenoids, etc. I've had it for 1 year and now it's stuck 1100 miles away from me after it broke down on a roadtrip.
GM needs to give Bison more HP or make it a hybrid to make up for all that rubber and added steel. Make it stand out a little more under the hood. Otherwise, sweet rig.
Andre... I saw this truck at the State Fair of Texas... and it is awesome... but the Real Question is... When are we gonna see ZR2 Bison vs Gladiator Rubicon test??? Which is better and which is the best bang for the buck... Im Waiting... lol
It looks great but I do agree with the amazing suspension you are giving up some payload and I think all these new 4 cyl turbo engines are going to be working hard with a load.
@@brandonbireley1690 so you agree. Nice. I just thought it a little weird for Andre of all people to make an extra point of it more than usual because it is common with all the top offroad models from each manufacturer. They all have pretty low payloads and around 1000lbs seems to be about average.
I chose the 5th gen 4Runner because of the V6, reliability and easier to work on in emergency situations. Otherwise, I would prefer to buy an American mid-size truck - I'd way rather buy this Colorado ZR2 Bison or Ranger Tremor if it had the same type power train, be it Diesel V6 please.
I’m sure the engine is great but most 4 cylinder engines I’ve driven have been slightly rough. I had new-ish rental mustang with the 4 cylinder and it started really hard with a pretty good shake. The power was fine for a commuter car but that shake really made me want to avoid the small engines.
i have a bad feeling about all these small turbo charged engines... they are great when new.. but how are they going to hold up after 100k..150k.. etc.. compared to v6 and v8 engines, they are under alot more stress( pressure!)
@@zackmeuthsure it is now, but how about in 5-10 years or after 100k miles? thats what im saying is i dont have confidence in the longevity of these small over pressurized engines. now, for some one that gets a new car every couple years, thats a non issue.
@@zackmeuth I occasionally drove a 2012 optima from new which was later passed to a family member . It was great until about 100k then it burned oil like you wouldn’t believe. It was totaled when it was rear needed but i enjoyed the car. I’d buy a k5 if I were in the market and if I trusted the brands reliability.
Momentum in the Boulder field 🤷♂️ it a technical obstacle Andre momentum isn't your friend in this situation maybe bumping it a time or two, slow down take it east and enjoy. You have the best job in the world.
As an owner of a Silverado ZR2, I’m pretty pissed that the max tire size I can run without rubbing is 33”. Here we have the midsize truck out-tire sizing the full-size. I hate that I have to hack up my front wheel well and bumper just to get a proper sized tire on it.
You could easily run 295/70r18s (34.3s) and not even be close to rubbing… A guy I know has done that Edit: stock wheels tho, too much offset could result in rubbing so I wouldn’t go too far past 0 offset
Yup. This is one of the many reasons I wouldn't buy a Silverado 1500. The pathetic fuel tank size and the fact that you can't get the max trailering package and a 2 speed transfer case being other major reasons.
I love this Colorado ZR2 Bison! However, with the UAW strike these things will have crazy markups. Dealerships here in CA are already asking over $10K-$15K for a regular ZR2 even if you order one from the factory... Maybe I'll wait another year or two.
Agree, which is why I’m buying a Z71 & lifting it on my own to run 33s. I don’t need all the ZR2 nor Bison add-ons for the wheeling I do. The Z71s are at or below MSRP here in CA.
@philipparana9225 no full time employee is making $20/hr. Don't be deceptive. Plus, an organizations profits are of zero consequence. What's the work being done worth? IMHO, unless each employee is going to do something that increases revenue from where it currently is, there's zero reason to pay them more. More pay for the same work (that any adult could be taught) is absurd.
@@ryansheard8092shows how little you know about auto factories. There are lots of “temps” making less than $20. They hire in thinking they will turn into full time jobs but they never do. They just get laid off and more temps brought in.
Buy a Z71 and build it your own way. The ZR2 & Bison are super nice, but I’d rather spend $45K & then have it lifted & fitted w/ 33s. Most don’t need multimatic shocks or undercarriage cameras, plus front locker.
@krasnaludek298 plus when the DSSVs inevitably fail they are so expensive to replace most just switch to Kings anyway. But the factory locker would still be nice
@@krasnaludek298 If you don't need all that stuff then a Z71 makes sense, but if you buy a Z71 and upgrade it to the same capability as a ZR2 it would be cheaper to get the ZR2.
I can’t hope to imagine that a SUV body on this platform would look killer. Something to compete with the Bronco and 4Runner. I don’t mention the Wrangler since I think it’s in its own category (with solid axles)
Regarding comment on washboard. Washboard sucks……..that being said smoothest ride ever on washboard when I owned a 2004 Range Rover. It was beast off-road outside of rock crawling which to me is just not fun.
I just sold my 2019 zr2 bison last week . The previous videos on the 2019 zr2 bison made me buy one. I now own a sand dune metallic 2023 zr2 colorado and i really like it. I will be adding the boron under body protection as soon as possible. Thamk you Andre and TFL crew for all the informative videos. Mark
How do you like the sand dune metallic? I am stuck between that and the Sterling Grey. I have not seen a sand dune in person. some videos make it look dark and others it is super light
If you want some of the gnarliest terrain around, come on out to New Hampshire - there are thousands of miles of "Class 6" roads - they will challenge & test all parameters of the vehicles you're testing!
AEV is an awesome company here in my home state of Michigan. They built my 2012 Jeep Wrangler which handles way better than it did when it was stock. This seems like they are doing the same as the old generation Colorado Bison. Bumpers, skid plates, embroidered head rests, wheels and finally 35" tires. The lift i'm guessing comes from the 35" tires over the 33" factory ZR2 tires. Please tell me what they did with the suspension. Did they change out the front coil springs with their progressive rate coils? Larger block under the rear leaf springs? are they the same factory rear springs? Aluminum knuckles still there? Why not re-gear it to 4.11 or 4.56 to offset the 35" tires. Turbo engine probably could use a heat reduction hood with functional venting. Rock rails are the factory ones that are bolted to the body, not the frame correct? Love your channel and your reviews but i want more technical stuff explained. For $10,000 you should get more than what this offers.
I like the way this truck looks, IMO it looks better than the Silverado, and love its capabilities. However, considering the problems Andre has had with his Colorado I would likely go for a Ranger Raptor, depending on its capabilities or a Gladiator unless GM can get its act together.
@@B-rad303 cough, cough, Bronco V6, cough, cough. The thing with Andre's problems were that one of them, the drained battery, could leave you stranded in the boonies.
Great review! I have a 2018 Colorado ZR2 now you got me wanting one of these bad boys. Looks like almost the perfect off road vehicle! Now I need to sweet talk my honey into letting me buy my ideal retirement truck ( that was supposed to be the ZR2) Oh honey....
In a week i just might be buying a zr2 bison as my pre retirement truck now that i am living back in uooer northeastern Tennessee living so close by many mountain ligging roads withing a 50 to 100 mile drive. I would thoroughly enjoy driving this zr2 bison up in the Cherokee,pisgha and Smokey mountains in tn and western NC mountains. It could be fun to drive it in the swampy regions along the coast in nc,sc and ga,
Andre, any recommendations on a Chevy dealer that knows about these trucks? AEV was absolutely no help answering any general questions about their parts, what's included or recommendations for a dealer. If I go to my local Chevy dealer and Johnny salesman runs up asking me how he can earn my business today and I ask about a skid plate and he asks me what that is....I'm gonna lose it....haha!
I'm just curious if it would be more practical and affordable to just get the previous Gen. ZR2 with a V6 or the baby max and just give it a bit if a lift? I've seen used ones selling for around 35,000 and 5,000 for a lift would still keep you 20,000 under the new one. And yes I know the older bison sell for a bit more but if your going to mod it, why not save a bit if $ and just start with the standard ZR2
For the estimated price difference, I think I might stick with the ZR2 and just upgrade to 35’s, I understand there are some other smaller differences, but worth roughly $7-9k? At least not for me, especially if I can the wheels for approx 1500. But depends on price for the package.
If you're going to use these trucks the way they're meant to be used then you're going to eventually want the winch capable bumper and skid plates. But if you're just wanting to look cool in the parking lot then don't worry about it.
@@PeakDecline I get that, but a lot of that you can do yourself, makes it less expensive than through them, plus I’m not crazy with the placement of the spare tire. So I’m already looking at a new bumper so I can have a swing gate for the spare. I mean I love what they did, but it comes down to price. The 2022 bison on the Colorado was about $5500/6k, the dessert boss is almost 10k, now the bison is $8500 on the 1500 and $9400 on the heavy duty. If it’s around $6/7k it’s something I will think about, but the ZR2 is very very capable as is. Only a few grand can really make it into something cool.
@@Livestrong00782 I'm just talking from experience here. I owned a 2019 ZR2, I own a 2022 Gladiator Rubicon now for reference. I modified my ZR2 to run 35s, bought and installed my own front and rear bumper and skid plates. In the end it cost me more than what just buying the Bison package would have from factory. Why? Because good high quality bumpers are expensive up front and they cost a lot to ship to your house. Front bumper? $1500. Skid plates? $1500-$2000. Rear bumper? $1200-$3000 (if you want it to have a tire carrier). Jounce shocks? GM wants nearly $1700 for a set of DSSV jounce shocks. Tires and wheels? $2500-$3000. So... yeah no way you can actually replicate this for cheaper in the after market. At least without really cheaping out on parts or leaving out important aspects of the package. Assuming this comes in around $60-$63K... I think its a really good value. Very high quality parts and keeps your factory warranty.
@@PeakDecline I agree 100%, but I think depends on the price point that they’re going to list for, you have to remember the old bison package was far less expensive and I wouldn’t have hesitated on the 2022 or older. The factory warranty is definitely a plus, but if I’m not going to be using it that hardcore, I will be using it, but probably not as hardcore as it is intended for. Then it might not be worth it, just really need Chevy to release the price point, they have it released for the 2024 for both the light and heavy duty, but not the Colorado. I was really hoping to keep it around $58k, $50k for the ZR2 and the rest for the bison, I do wish the bison had a little more in power, no such thing as a perfect rig right? Ha ha
@@PeakDecline just buy some 6061 Aluminum n TIG weld ur own heavy duty front n back bumpers with winches, swing out tailgate, jerry can n water carrier, bed cage n rooftop tent, rock rails and skid plates! I could do all that all for less than $4000 USD of high strength metal. I could cut and weld all that together in just a weekend!
So what about gearing? I would imagine with those tires there has to be different gearing specifically for the Bison. Thx Andre! Really enjoy your videoes.
A fair amount of vehicles are "capable". But will GMC ✅ off the reliable box? Will they stand behind their product when it fails under warranty? Will you be left in your driveway with a dead battery because updates went on over night and you cannot get to work? (or on the side of the road or at work or at the campground)Will GMC do the honorable thing and send a tech./mechanic out to you when it fails and or supply you a loaner until they resolve the problem you did not create? 🤔
Yes the TRD PRO Tacoma will be 67 grand plus dealers absurd market adjustment fee of at least 5 grand. Then after add sales tax the tamoca will cost you close to 78 grand.
My buddy has a loaded 24 Bison on order. Summit white, every option. Vehicle will be used for camping/daily driving (in northern winters). Can buy a cap for it, or see if the dealership will remove the mount/tire or request it not installed at the factory.... it's a big risk indeed. The factory prob won't ship it without the AEV bed mount, and they drill many holes in the bed to install it so having it taken off/removed could potentially compromise your bed or maybe they could patch it up properly who knows. If camping with a big family and all gear...not the truck for you. Typically my friend goes camping in pairs. No bed cover. Poor gas mileage. Poor payload.... This is known when buying a monster like this. Camp with less gear....have a sweet ass truck that goes literally anywhere and looks damn good doing it.... some would pick the truck but sacrifices do have to be made at this point. I suggested my buddy runs without the spare tire unless going off-roading..... problem solved. Added bonus = If you can figure out how to keep it gassed up with a reserve fuel tank or something, it makes a legit SHTF truck.
@@Dan-nk3lc Definitely familiar with the tradeoffs, I run a gen 2 Raptor as my DD and camping rig. You trade truck capabilities for offroad capabilities which is fine. This Bison is just further over on that sliding scale. I immediately thought of a cap too, though it eats further into payload and you're taking everything out of the bed if you need the spare. Just something you've gotta accept. Or buy the ZR2 1/2 ton or HD, haha! Then you've got the utility but give on size and offroad capabilty. Horses for courses!
No they don’t. only on the Chevy. I think the GMC would have been crazy expensive if they added them. I think GM wanted to make the Chevy the true off roader, gmc is more luxury.
What diffs are they using in this vehicle? The Colorado ZR2 has been based heavily on the H3 over the years, I'm wondering if they beefed up the diffs to handle that tire size better.
Imagine if Chevy used this platform for the Blazer and made a real Bronco competitor!
Imagine. That’s all I can do after my 73 K5 .
Everything since then has been subpar for excitement.
There are so CLUELESS
Don't hold your breath. the blazer name is dead as far as a good offroader
What would they call it?
@@watnw2411the trail blazer
What the 2024 TRD Pro should have been. Perfect truck Chevy
I do really like both, but in the TRDs defense, it already comes with more power and torque, and similar performance with smaller tires. I’d be curious to see a TRD Pro with 35s like the Bison.
I think back 25ish years ago when the first ZR2's came out in the S10 platform.. to run 35" tires you needed a 6" suspension lift and it would still rub. Plus, the front end was not strong enough, you were constantly replacing ball joints and axle half shafts. It cost a lot to run 35's back then.
Now. Here is a truck from the factory with 35's and a warranty!
So awesome..
At only 4x the cost of that original Zr2. Jeep wranglers prior to 2007 cane with 30" tires. I had a 2006 wrangler sport and had to put a 3" lift just to barely fit 32s
Yep. True. Tires are THE number one thing that adds capability to a vehicle. Does not matter how much is spent on components. Slap 35s on a Honda civic and it will go anywhere. lol
@@canyonero2050 Twice the cost. An S10 in 2024 would be $28,001.29 MSRP w/ inflation.
Yall talking cost complaining vs a '94 S10 ZR2...this $hit has 10 cameras, space age flatscrreen dash, airbags, LOCKERS on both ends, electric magnetic suspemsion w hydro bumps, Intercooled Turbo with more horsepower and 100 more torque than a '95 Corvette LT1 from an aluminum 4 banger. Beadlock wheels, sick sliders and bumpers, software lockers etc; and Tie Rods that dont snap like the foolsize gm trucks lol.
This truck is awesome. Chevy wasn't messin around with this off-road trail. Awesome video
I've had my Bison for about a month and they really made a special vehicle here. It's not just great offroad. I would have thought with those chunky tires that it would be deafening loud on pavement but it's surprisingly quiet. It's really a swiss army knife of trucks.
The ZR2 Bison finally lives up to it's hype. Those 35's are kill, I've been on 33's for a few years now, time for more trimming and 35's, thanks TFL.
Just go 37s and thank me later 😎
Man that’s one beautiful truck! I’ve never really been into Chevy trucks! But lately Chevy and GMC are really coming out with some awesome looking ones!👌🥰👍
Looking , yes
Very impressive and tires held up really well. Nice driving and review, Andre!
I would love to see Chevy give you this for a year-long term test. You guys would be absolutely justified to beat it to heck and back on CO trails to see how well it holds up...
Take a EV in woods for a few days it would suck give me a gas and go go baby
The Bison looks great with those 35’s! Thanks for the video TFL!
I've owned my '23 ZR2 for nearly a month now and I've really enjoyed it. This Bison model just looks next level! I'm hoping and expecting that GM/AEV will offer the bumpers/skid plates a la carte so that I can add some of that down the line!
Yes, they plan to.
Do you live in the US? How did you get your hands on one?
@@Gammaafordered it
That’s a legit off-roader from the factory. Very nice.
Love it Andre, great job. I've done a 2020 z71 fully tricked out Trail Runner version and now in a 23' Trail Boss done up pretty well as well, next is a ZR2 maybe 2025 and just go all out. Looking forward to it, maybe by then they'll approach 400HP and a bit more torque as well. I'm really liking these mid sized trucks !!
Would be nice if Chevy was even getting the 2023’s out to people. I gave up on my ZR2 and bought a Silverado Trail Boss. Couldn’t wait forever!
I got mine, ordered December 2022 got it August of 2023.
Sure it can go off-road but will it be bricked and crippled by its electronics? Andrei’s new Chevy Colorado did not last too long. I’d hate to have any failures while off-roading.
Or a bent frame 😂
Spell check much?
@@windycitywarrior71 actually it was the apple spell check that messed my comment up but thanks for the valuable input Mr. grammar nazi
Good thing I only do on-reading
Agreed.
Best looking mid size truck in the market, just don't know how reliable the powertrain will be long-term.
Nissan looks good and probably more reliable
@@gregmoessner3104but not more capable
The Colorado Bison would be perfect with the LZ0 Duramax and getting rid of the yellow interior stitching and urban camo panels (seriously who approved that?) then add in an option for a power rear slider commonly available or as an option in most trucks now. Then you have a perfect mid sized truck.
Yes, I hope that they will add that LZ0 to the Colorado for 2024!
@sean47w7 they do that and I would have no problem submitting a pre-order. As of right now... will hold off for some refinement. Absolutely love the 3.0 in my dad's new AT4 he picked up.
Heck I wish they’d just offer it with the 5.3
The rear sliding window not being powered is kinda inexcusable. Like why? And forcing the yellow interior is also a strange decision.
@@kylejames538 I believe Chevy did that with the avalanche and got sued by Toyota… but they did have the little window that would slide that’s been on trucks for a little bit now is that what you’re referring to?
I had a ZR2 and sold it a year back. Going to look at the new TRD Pro, ZR2 and Ranger Raptor see which I like best. Midsize offroad pickup market is heating up I love it.
I'm going PRO TOO. That Taco is sweet.
that's a proper demo event. these folks had confidence in their work
You know i've been a GM Fan for a while and have never cared for the colorado / Canyons. But this body style is by far the sexiest ever made
That is a great looking truck, especially the stance and tire proportions. GM engineers should have dropped the pressure down to approximately 15 psi....21 psi is too high for the rock crawling they were doing. I wonder how good the bead retention system is on those rims?
I LOVED my S10 ZR2 and have wanted a Colorado ZR2 since they came out. I test drove a '24 Canyon AT4X and was VERY disappointed by the power. I'm sure a tune could fix that, but my '08 Silverado 1500 with the 5.3 and 33×12.50's has gobs more power.
Good job pointing the payload issue.
They need to QC better at factory, mine have been in the shop 2 times since I got it and still in the shop.
Since when is 310hp not enough???? I love riding off road with my friends that have almost double the horsepower but we are going the same speed…less than 30mph.
Exactly you can only get so much HP to the ground. Just Spinning tires don’t make it any faster
Unless dunes or big mud is on the menu, you’re right, off-roading generally doesn’t take much power!
Suspension is where it’s at for sure.
@@slidewide1999 there would be no reason to offer/choose a Bison over a ZR2. It is about flexin status in the streets too.
The huge smile on your face at 21:00 says it all!
I honestly feel like the regular ZR2 I ordered was overkill lol
My friend bent his frame from the crunch zone when he was winching himself. And you can see the bed and the cab move from the frame bending. You can see it on sand hill climbs.
I think it's a much better and bigger truck, but I wouldn't get rid of my 2020 bison because it's got the excellent diesel motor. If the new truck would offer it with the diesel I would definitely order one.
Chevy should offer the ZR2 as a package to add to any model from base to the top of the line truck
Why they still went with the leaf spring is unideal for an off-roading condition. Coil spring would've been the better choice. This truck definitely has the potential for serious off-roading. Hope GM swap out the leaf spring to a coil spring. Overall, it has the proper look and features. More power and torque could be better improve. The V6 just seems like the proper engine for this midsize truck.
Absolutely sick!!!! I'm sure the price tag is out of my range but my goodness what an awesome build straight from the factory!!
Actually it's not bad at all when compared to the ranger raptor.
Well….. I want one now
Great performance by the truck...
They still have time to add some Xtra horsepower and try. 325hp and 450 ft lb of trq. and better gearing with proper tranny reprogramming would make this the truck it should be.I f done the right way you would even get better mpg. I'm just hoping for the best. Gm is getting better. We will see how good they want to be.
They could of deleted the leaf suspension for this particular model.
But that's just my opinion.
I was surprised they were the only manufacturer to keep leaf suspension.
I love this truck, but seriously skeptical about issues. I have 62000 miles on a 2019 and it already had a failed climate controls panel, temperature sensor, camshaft solenoids, etc. I've had it for 1 year and now it's stuck 1100 miles away from me after it broke down on a roadtrip.
I’ve had a 17 ZR2 since new and it’s been bulletproof
Lemon?
I love that truck
TFL is great, but Andre is the best!
Great ride in the ZR2 Bison - always enjoy your vids Andre' - keep up the great reviews and content!
impressive. Some of those obstacles were pretty gnarly.
GM needs to give Bison more HP or make it a hybrid to make up for all that rubber and added steel. Make it stand out a little more under the hood. Otherwise, sweet rig.
No they don’t it’s plenty powerful enough as is.
Unfortunately those batteries will cut into an already kinda low payload rating. Extra power from more boost could never hurt. Call it Turbo SuperMax.
@@windycitywarrior71it needs 500hp 😂
Over 300 is plenty.
@@TJY2K A 300hp truck is a dog, that already is the standard ZR2. Thing better be as quick as a 392 Wrangler for that price.
Andre... I saw this truck at the State Fair of Texas... and it is awesome... but the Real Question is... When are we gonna see ZR2 Bison vs Gladiator Rubicon test??? Which is better and which is the best bang for the buck... Im Waiting... lol
Wish they still had the diesel engine option. Come on Chevy!!! I have a 2019 Chevy Colorado ZR2 with the 2.8 Duramax.
They nailed it with this truck
It looks great but I do agree with the amazing suspension you are giving up some payload and I think all these new 4 cyl turbo engines are going to be working hard with a load.
Of course you’re giving up payload. If you want payload you get one of the other ones 🤷🏽
@@brandonbireley1690 so you agree. Nice. I just thought it a little weird for Andre of all people to make an extra point of it more than usual because it is common with all the top offroad models from each manufacturer. They all have pretty low payloads and around 1000lbs seems to be about average.
I chose the 5th gen 4Runner because of the V6, reliability and easier to work on in emergency situations. Otherwise, I would prefer to buy an American mid-size truck - I'd way rather buy this Colorado ZR2 Bison or Ranger Tremor if it had the same type power train, be it Diesel V6 please.
Awesome, looking forward to watching this soon!
Nice review Andrei! Thank you.
Thank you for watching!
I’m sure the engine is great but most 4 cylinder engines I’ve driven have been slightly rough. I had new-ish rental mustang with the 4 cylinder and it started really hard with a pretty good shake. The power was fine for a commuter car but that shake really made me want to avoid the small engines.
i have a bad feeling about all these small turbo charged engines... they are great when new.. but how are they going to hold up after 100k..150k.. etc.. compared to v6 and v8 engines, they are under alot more stress( pressure!)
Go drive a Kia k5 that is a refined turbo 4. Great car so far.
@@zackmeuthsure it is now, but how about in 5-10 years or after 100k miles? thats what im saying is i dont have confidence in the longevity of these small over pressurized engines. now, for some one that gets a new car every couple years, thats a non issue.
@@zackmeuth I occasionally drove a 2012 optima from new which was later passed to a family member . It was great until about 100k then it burned oil like you wouldn’t believe. It was totaled when it was rear needed but i enjoyed the car. I’d buy a k5 if I were in the market and if I trusted the brands reliability.
That's because they were Fords.
Great truck!
Guys these trails really aren't that challenging; i have been on these trails with my current 2020 zr2....no big deal
Blah blah blah
This trail would be difficult for beginners and newbies.
Momentum in the Boulder field 🤷♂️ it a technical obstacle Andre momentum isn't your friend in this situation maybe bumping it a time or two, slow down take it east and enjoy. You have the best job in the world.
Hope these trucks don't end up plagued by recalls and dealer service that cant or wont fix issues
If they built this as a blazer SUV, with a solid axle front option, it would sell like hotcakes...
As an owner of a Silverado ZR2, I’m pretty pissed that the max tire size I can run without rubbing is 33”. Here we have the midsize truck out-tire sizing the full-size. I hate that I have to hack up my front wheel well and bumper just to get a proper sized tire on it.
You could easily run 295/70r18s (34.3s) and not even be close to rubbing… A guy I know has done that
Edit: stock wheels tho, too much offset could result in rubbing so I wouldn’t go too far past 0 offset
Yup. This is one of the many reasons I wouldn't buy a Silverado 1500. The pathetic fuel tank size and the fact that you can't get the max trailering package and a 2 speed transfer case being other major reasons.
I love this Colorado ZR2 Bison! However, with the UAW strike these things will have crazy markups. Dealerships here in CA are already asking over $10K-$15K for a regular ZR2 even if you order one from the factory... Maybe I'll wait another year or two.
Agree, which is why I’m buying a Z71 & lifting it on my own to run 33s. I don’t need all the ZR2 nor Bison add-ons for the wheeling I do. The Z71s are at or below MSRP here in CA.
Never mind the price increase the manufacturers will need to add to pay for the UAWs foolery.
Yeah it's not the record profits it's the guys making $20 hr that are the problem.
@philipparana9225 no full time employee is making $20/hr. Don't be deceptive. Plus, an organizations profits are of zero consequence. What's the work being done worth? IMHO, unless each employee is going to do something that increases revenue from where it currently is, there's zero reason to pay them more. More pay for the same work (that any adult could be taught) is absurd.
@@ryansheard8092shows how little you know about auto factories. There are lots of “temps” making less than $20. They hire in thinking they will turn into full time jobs but they never do. They just get laid off and more temps brought in.
We need a Raptor R version, maybe a Corvette engine and 6” more travel 🤩😎
The ZR2's here in Houston are already selling for over $65k... assuming you can even find one. I'd be stunned to find a 2024 ZR2 Bison for under $70k.
The current new market markups are absolutely insane
They're not getting any better either.
Buy a Z71 and build it your own way. The ZR2 & Bison are super nice, but I’d rather spend $45K & then have it lifted & fitted w/ 33s. Most don’t need multimatic shocks or undercarriage cameras, plus front locker.
@krasnaludek298 plus when the DSSVs inevitably fail they are so expensive to replace most just switch to Kings anyway. But the factory locker would still be nice
@@krasnaludek298 If you don't need all that stuff then a Z71 makes sense, but if you buy a Z71 and upgrade it to the same capability as a ZR2 it would be cheaper to get the ZR2.
Nice video. Awesome truck!
Excellent Video as always!!! 😁
Should have had coils in the rear with full floating axles for added capacity
I can’t hope to imagine that a SUV body on this platform would look killer. Something to compete with the Bronco and 4Runner. I don’t mention the Wrangler since I think it’s in its own category (with solid axles)
They need to do that with the Trailblazer name.
Blazer was bigger than bronco size wise, not talking the S10 blazer, but k5, the real blazer.
Regarding comment on washboard. Washboard sucks……..that being said smoothest ride ever on washboard when I owned a 2004 Range Rover. It was beast off-road outside of rock crawling which to me is just not fun.
I just sold my 2019 zr2 bison last week . The previous videos on the 2019 zr2 bison made me buy one. I now own a sand dune metallic 2023 zr2 colorado and i really like it. I will be adding the boron under body protection as soon as possible. Thamk you Andre and TFL crew for all the informative videos. Mark
Thank you for watching! Much appreciated. -Andre.
How do you like the sand dune metallic? I am stuck between that and the Sterling Grey. I have not seen a sand dune in person. some videos make it look dark and others it is super light
The sand dune color can match your Flat Dark Earth AR furniture.
If you want some of the gnarliest terrain around, come on out to New Hampshire - there are thousands of miles of "Class 6" roads - they will challenge & test all parameters of the vehicles you're testing!
That was serious business.
That fake engine sound being sent in during the Baja section was pretty pretty bad.
I wanna see how it does in the whoops like ford shows every raptor model doing!
I want to see Ford put the Raptors on a rock-crawling course like GM just did.
I cant wait for the Ranger Raptor drive
It'll have to wait until the fools at the UAW decide they want to start working again rather than demanding more $ for less work.
Perhaps we should talk to the UAW bosses or we won’t be able to see any of these wonderful trucks anytime soon.
@drnick40 those lazy, greedy mf'ers need to be replaced with ROBOTS!
AEV is an awesome company here in my home state of Michigan. They built my 2012 Jeep Wrangler which handles way better than it did when it was stock. This seems like they are doing the same as the old generation Colorado Bison. Bumpers, skid plates, embroidered head rests, wheels and finally 35" tires. The lift i'm guessing comes from the 35" tires over the 33" factory ZR2 tires. Please tell me what they did with the suspension. Did they change out the front coil springs with their progressive rate coils? Larger block under the rear leaf springs? are they the same factory rear springs? Aluminum knuckles still there? Why not re-gear it to 4.11 or 4.56 to offset the 35" tires. Turbo engine probably could use a heat reduction hood with functional venting. Rock rails are the factory ones that are bolted to the body, not the frame correct? Love your channel and your reviews but i want more technical stuff explained. For $10,000 you should get more than what this offers.
I like the way this truck looks, IMO it looks better than the Silverado, and love its capabilities.
However, considering the problems Andre has had with his Colorado I would likely go for a Ranger Raptor, depending on its capabilities or a Gladiator unless GM can get its act together.
I couldnt buy either since they both cost more than I make in a year.
They're both poorly made junk sadly. Late stage capitalism and all.
It's a ford, it'll have plenty of issues also.
@@B-rad303 cough, cough, Bronco V6, cough, cough.
The thing with Andre's problems were that one of them, the drained battery, could leave you stranded in the boonies.
@@IronmanV5I have a Maverick ecoboost, two years in and 24,000 miles. Zero issues 🤷♂️
Loving the Michigan plates lol
Does the transfer case has a locking function ?
It is a shame they don't sell the sand dune colour pre dusted - it looks great dirty!
I’ll look forward to you doing a head to head with that vs the new Ranger Raptor.
Great review! I have a 2018 Colorado ZR2 now you got me wanting one of these bad boys. Looks like almost the perfect off road vehicle! Now I need to sweet talk my honey into letting me buy my ideal retirement truck ( that was supposed to be the ZR2) Oh honey....
In a week i just might be buying a zr2 bison as my pre retirement truck now that i am living back in uooer northeastern Tennessee living so close by many mountain ligging roads withing a 50 to 100 mile drive. I would thoroughly enjoy driving this zr2 bison up in the Cherokee,pisgha and Smokey mountains in tn and western NC mountains. It could be fun to drive it in the swampy regions along the coast in nc,sc and ga,
I would never of guessed they would put 35s on the Colorado before they put them on the Silverado 1500 😂
All i want is a midsize truck with a 6ft. bed 😢, GM.
Andre, any recommendations on a Chevy dealer that knows about these trucks? AEV was absolutely no help answering any general questions about their parts, what's included or recommendations for a dealer. If I go to my local Chevy dealer and Johnny salesman runs up asking me how he can earn my business today and I ask about a skid plate and he asks me what that is....I'm gonna lose it....haha!
I'm just curious if it would be more practical and affordable to just get the previous Gen. ZR2 with a V6 or the baby max and just give it a bit if a lift? I've seen used ones selling for around 35,000 and 5,000 for a lift would still keep you 20,000 under the new one. And yes I know the older bison sell for a bit more but if your going to mod it, why not save a bit if $ and just start with the standard ZR2
For the estimated price difference, I think I might stick with the ZR2 and just upgrade to 35’s, I understand there are some other smaller differences, but worth roughly $7-9k? At least not for me, especially if I can the wheels for approx 1500. But depends on price for the package.
If you're going to use these trucks the way they're meant to be used then you're going to eventually want the winch capable bumper and skid plates. But if you're just wanting to look cool in the parking lot then don't worry about it.
@@PeakDecline I get that, but a lot of that you can do yourself, makes it less expensive than through them, plus I’m not crazy with the placement of the spare tire. So I’m already looking at a new bumper so I can have a swing gate for the spare. I mean I love what they did, but it comes down to price. The 2022 bison on the Colorado was about $5500/6k, the dessert boss is almost 10k, now the bison is $8500 on the 1500 and $9400 on the heavy duty. If it’s around $6/7k it’s something I will think about, but the ZR2 is very very capable as is. Only a few grand can really make it into something cool.
@@Livestrong00782 I'm just talking from experience here. I owned a 2019 ZR2, I own a 2022 Gladiator Rubicon now for reference. I modified my ZR2 to run 35s, bought and installed my own front and rear bumper and skid plates. In the end it cost me more than what just buying the Bison package would have from factory. Why? Because good high quality bumpers are expensive up front and they cost a lot to ship to your house. Front bumper? $1500. Skid plates? $1500-$2000. Rear bumper? $1200-$3000 (if you want it to have a tire carrier). Jounce shocks? GM wants nearly $1700 for a set of DSSV jounce shocks. Tires and wheels? $2500-$3000. So... yeah no way you can actually replicate this for cheaper in the after market. At least without really cheaping out on parts or leaving out important aspects of the package. Assuming this comes in around $60-$63K... I think its a really good value. Very high quality parts and keeps your factory warranty.
@@PeakDecline I agree 100%, but I think depends on the price point that they’re going to list for, you have to remember the old bison package was far less expensive and I wouldn’t have hesitated on the 2022 or older. The factory warranty is definitely a plus, but if I’m not going to be using it that hardcore, I will be using it, but probably not as hardcore as it is intended for. Then it might not be worth it, just really need Chevy to release the price point, they have it released for the 2024 for both the light and heavy duty, but not the Colorado. I was really hoping to keep it around $58k, $50k for the ZR2 and the rest for the bison, I do wish the bison had a little more in power, no such thing as a perfect rig right? Ha ha
@@PeakDecline just buy some 6061 Aluminum n TIG weld ur own heavy duty front n back bumpers with winches, swing out tailgate, jerry can n water carrier, bed cage n rooftop tent, rock rails and skid plates! I could do all that all for less than $4000 USD of high strength metal. I could cut and weld all that together in just a weekend!
So what about gearing? I would imagine with those tires there has to be different gearing specifically for the Bison. Thx Andre! Really enjoy your videoes.
A fair amount of vehicles are "capable". But will GMC ✅ off the reliable box? Will they stand behind their product when it fails under warranty? Will you be left in your driveway with a dead battery because updates went on over night and you cannot get to work? (or on the side of the road or at work or at the campground)Will GMC do the honorable thing and send a tech./mechanic out to you when it fails and or supply you a loaner until they resolve the problem you did not create? 🤔
Great vid. Gives visual and specs. Newsom should get those Cali homeless to clear up these trails, LOL.
The Tacoma TRD Pro costing $5K more than this is hilarious
Yes the TRD PRO Tacoma will be 67 grand plus dealers absurd market adjustment fee of at least 5 grand. Then after add sales tax the tamoca will cost you close to 78 grand.
ZR2 is the one to get
I wish they had a single cab 6.5 foot bed colorado zr2 bison.
If they just remove all the electronics for an off roader we dont need all these complicated systems
So next level, their roofs are splitting apart😅😂😅
Does it have cruise control?
Does it have disk brakes?
Looks fun and capable, but the payload and spare tire make it problematic for anyone wanting to kit it out for camping/travel.
My buddy has a loaded 24 Bison on order. Summit white, every option. Vehicle will be used for camping/daily driving (in northern winters). Can buy a cap for it, or see if the dealership will remove the mount/tire or request it not installed at the factory.... it's a big risk indeed. The factory prob won't ship it without the AEV bed mount, and they drill many holes in the bed to install it so having it taken off/removed could potentially compromise your bed or maybe they could patch it up properly who knows. If camping with a big family and all gear...not the truck for you. Typically my friend goes camping in pairs. No bed cover. Poor gas mileage. Poor payload.... This is known when buying a monster like this. Camp with less gear....have a sweet ass truck that goes literally anywhere and looks damn good doing it.... some would pick the truck but sacrifices do have to be made at this point. I suggested my buddy runs without the spare tire unless going off-roading..... problem solved. Added bonus = If you can figure out how to keep it gassed up with a reserve fuel tank or something, it makes a legit SHTF truck.
@@Dan-nk3lc Definitely familiar with the tradeoffs, I run a gen 2 Raptor as my DD and camping rig. You trade truck capabilities for offroad capabilities which is fine. This Bison is just further over on that sliding scale. I immediately thought of a cap too, though it eats further into payload and you're taking everything out of the bed if you need the spare. Just something you've gotta accept. Or buy the ZR2 1/2 ton or HD, haha! Then you've got the utility but give on size and offroad capabilty. Horses for courses!
Do the hydraulic bump stops come on the GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Bison?
No they don’t. only on the Chevy. I think the GMC would have been crazy expensive if they added them. I think GM wanted to make the Chevy the true off roader, gmc is more luxury.
I have a new ZR2 Colorado and aside from 2 extra skid plates underneath and badging, I dont see $11,000 extra dollars for the bison
Just noticed it doesn’t have the stupid indentations mid fender flare like the standard ZR2.
18:27 "THHHICCC"😂😂
I wish this truck had a 6 cylinder
Nice rig. Bad they used leaf springs. Just don't think it's better than the Ranger Raptor.
the back spare tire is not allowing you to see what in backside loool
What diffs are they using in this vehicle? The Colorado ZR2 has been based heavily on the H3 over the years, I'm wondering if they beefed up the diffs to handle that tire size better.