Let's count this out – as of today, Chevrolet has revealed three Colorado concepts in 30 days. The Colorado ZR2 concept revealed today at the LA motor show is a point-blank expression of 'truck meets off-road muscle'.
According to Chevrolet, the concept showcases the new 2.8-litre Duramax diesel engine that will arrive in the Colorado about mid-2015. And for the first time, Chevrolet is talking outputs from the US-spec four-cylinder diesel at 134kW at 3400rpm and 495Nm peak at 2000rpm. Against the Aussie-spec Colorado, the US engine drops power but achieves better peak torque. The Duramax engine dittos Aussie-spec in that it partners a six-speed automatic transmission.
Says Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager: "Chevrolet has a heritage of the ZR2 representing the ultimate in production-based off-road capability, and we'll gauge the public's interest in this concept as we continue to explore the possibilities for the new Colorado."
How that translates for Australia may be very good. The US market will push for accessories, option packs, suspension and wheel packages – plus dealer fit options – that may also become available in Australia.
Initial sales of Colorado, launched a few months ago, have been very strong claims Mark Reuss, President of General Motors North America. "Most are pre-sold and they aren't sitting long in showrooms."
The Colorado ZR2's ride height has been lifted by 5mm and the track is pushed 100mm wider than the production Colorado Z71, with features including new front and rear fascias designed to increase approach and departure angles of 30.7 and 22.7 degrees, respectively.
Off-road abilities are enhanced with electronic-locking front and rear differentials and 275/65R18 tyres on 18-inch aluminium multi-spoke, bead-lock-style wheels. The centre section of the wheel design has a raw aluminium appearance with black accents, while the bolt-on bead lock cover is orange-anodized aluminium.
The Colorado ZR2 wears a concept Cyprus Green with Henna Orange accents and custom ZR2 identification on the rear fenders, tailgate and grille.
Full coverage of the LA motor show on motoring.com.au
2014 LA motor show photo gallery on motoring.com.au