Hit the Trail in Style With a 2024 Colorado Z71

Few midsize pickups can match the off-road résumé of the Colorado. While other brands might offer one or two dedicated off-road trims or lackluster appearance packages that imbue a pickup with a sporty look without actually upping its utility or performance, there’s been a refreshingly different approach with the latest Chevy Colorado for sale. Out of the five trims on offer for 2024, three are designed with off-the-grid adventure in mind. 

It all starts with the Trail Boss, which elevates the base WT trim level with the addition of all-terrain tires, a two-inch lift, an automatic locking rear differential, and a two-speed transfer case. The ZR2 is the off-road all-star with an upgraded suspension, a three-inch lift, Multimatic DSSV dampers, driver-selectable front and rear locking differentials, 17-inch wheels with mud-terrain tires, and so much more. 

The range-topping ZR2 Bison variant sees Chevy continue its fruitful collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), which contributes a host of heavy-duty components like stamped steel front and rear bumpers (with integrated recovery points and a winch mount), AEV fender flares, Multimatic jounce-control and DSSV dampers, and a bed-mounted vertical spare tire mount with a full-size spare tire. 

The Trail Boss, ZR2, and ZR2 Bison all have their place in the lineup, but if you’re on the hunt for a pickup that can seamlessly meld off-road ability with a generous arsenal of premium features, you ought to consider the Colorado Z71. Arguably the best value of the bunch at just around $42k, the Z71 doesn’t force drivers to choose between practicality, comfort, and off-road performance; it takes the amenities of the mid-tier LT trim and injects a large dose of off-road verve. 

This versatile pickup trim is worth a closer look for any driver considering a 2024 Chevy Colorado—but before you head down to McCluskey Chevrolet for a test drive, let’s review some of the features that make the Z71 such a standout and see how this trim provides the perfect excuse for exploring the road less traveled. 

Off-Road-Ready Elements

Ground clearance is everything when it comes to an off-road vehicle, which is why it’s so nice to see Chevy design the Colorado Z71 with a one-inch factory lift and improved approach, breakover, and departure angles. These upgraded angles are particularly important as they allow drivers to approach steep grades with the confidence of knowing they’re not about to bottom or incur any dents or dings. The Colorado’s Eaton automatic locking rear differential is an important part of the package, seamlessly shifting power where it’s needed most to improve traction when things start to get a little slick. 

A locking rear differential is another essential feature for any off-road-worthy model, and Chevy hasn’t skimped with the impressive Eaton setup. The Z71 also packs a few fun surprises, like two front frame-mounted recovery hooks and a 120-volt bed-mounted outlet that’ll let you power electronics, small appliances, and other accessories when you’re miles away from civilization; however, it’s this pickup’s premium off-road tech that’s made it such a popular choice in the segment.

The Colorado’s Off-Road Performance Display lets drivers track vital metrics that can make or break their next off-road ride, from pitch, roll, and tire pressure to g-force and transfer case status. Monitored through the Colorado’s expansive 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and 11-inch Driver Information Center, the Off-Road Performance Display pairs well with the pickup’s advanced underbody camera. 

Offering nine views—including three available trailer hitch views that’ll take a lot of stress out of your next towing or hauling project—these cameras can even provide a live feed of the area directly under and around the bottom of the truck. From dodging rocks and logs to gauging the depth of puddles and avoiding other obstacles that could prematurely end your ride, the camera system is a perfect example of how technology can drastically improve off-road performance. 

Exceptional Control 

Driver Control Mode allows drivers to adjust the Colorado’s steering, transmission shift points, and pedal response to provide the perfect ride. While the Z71 might trade on its off-road ability, it also prioritizes the most important of pickup-related activities: towing. When properly equipped, the Z71 can tow up to 7,700 lbs, which puts it toward the top of the midsize segment. Tow/Haul Mode makes the Z71 an even more capable towing machine by tweaking the steering, pedal response, transmission shift points, and more to provide optimal control and stability.  

Normal Mode is ideal for everyday driving, delivering optimal comfort and efficiency without sacrificing performance—but when the going gets tough, the tough call on Off-Road Mode. Ideal for traversing mud, snow, loose sand, and other challenging off-road surfaces, Off-Road Mode improves traction by tailoring the truck’s four-wheel drive, Electronic Stability Control, and Traction Control Systems on the fly. Off-Road Mode also modifies the Z71’s antilock brake system, shortening the Colorado’s stopping distance to provide a safe, predictable driving experience. 

If Off-Road Mode just won’t cut it, simply switch the pickup into Terrain Mode. Perfect for rock crawling and other low-speed, high-torque applications, Terrain Mode activates the Colorado’s unique one-pedal driving feature. By taking over braking duties, the one-pedal driving system allows drivers to focus their attention on navigating tricky stretches of trail. That means no more backsliding or delicately switching between pedals when climbing a steep hill. 

Terrain Mode proves that advanced off-road tech can be just as important as robust equipment when it comes to finding success on the trail, but it’s not the only bit of advanced technology that makes the Colorado such a worry-free drive. Chevy has included its innovative Hill Descent Control feature on the Z71, which basically acts like a form of low-speed, off-road cruise control. Simply set your desired speed and Hill Descent Control will do the rest, adjusting the throttle and brakes and giving you the ability to focus 100% of your attention on a tricky stretch of trail. 

More Power, More Fun 

Luxury credentials aside, Chevy certainly hasn’t treated performance as an afterthought with the Colorado Z71. This pickup is powered by the same 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder setup as the rest of the 2024 trim lineup, but a little tweak sees this engine produce some extra power that’s sure to come in handy when you’re climbing a steep section of trail or working your way through a particularly messy patch of mud. The high-output TurboMax version of the 2.7-liter engine churns out 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, which is a considerable improvement over the 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque offered by the standard engine. 

These numbers allow the Colorado ZR1 to best much of its midsize competition, offering more horsepower and torque than the Toyota, Tacoma, Jeep Gladiator, and Honda Ridgeline. Chevy has also made four-wheel drive a standard feature on the Z71, Trail Boss, and ZR2, which, while expected, is still worth noting. An eight-speed automatic transmission provides plenty of pep and helps the Z71 achieve respectable fuel economy figures despite the upsized tires and added utility.

Upgrade Packages

The Colorado Z71 delivers a satisfying blend of off-road performance and contemporary comfort and convenience features, but if you’re looking to further enhance the pickup’s luxury profile, Chevy has you covered. The 2024 Colorado Z71 can be customized with any of ten optional packages, allowing drivers to turn their Colorado into a one-of-a-kind truck designed to fit their specific driving needs. 

Want to take advantage of Chevy’s innovative StowFlex tailgate or stop the endless search for power cords with a wireless smartphone charger? The Z71 Convenience Package III turns the Colorado’s cabin into a luxurious retreat with the addition of leather seating, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, while the Safety Package adds a full complement of advanced driver assistance tech like blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, rear automatic braking, and more. Let’s review some of the highlights and see how easy Chevy has made it to set your Colorado Z71 apart from the crowd…

Sports Bar Package

Few accessories can distinguish an off-road truck from the road-faring competition quite as well as a sports bar. The Z71’s available Sports Bar Package not only adds a bed-mounted sports bar with a sail panel, but it also throws a 40-inch off-road roof light bar in for good measure. This upgrade will provide plenty of illumination for those late-night excursions and can even offer a little added protection in the case of a rollover. 

Emblazoned with Colorado branding and designs to match the truck’s sporty aesthetic, the Sports Bar Package offers some obvious advantages over aftermarket options. Those who don’t want to spring for the full Sports Bar Package but are in the market for a little extra lighting should look into the Off-Road Lighting Package, which adds two ultra-bright LED lights mounted just in front of the windshield. 

Z71 Convenience Package II & III

The Z71 Convenience Package II and III might pack the same excitement as some of the Colorado’s utility- or appearance-focused upgrades, but they go a long way toward improving the truck’s comfort. A remote starter, dual-zone-automatic climate control, and auto-dimming rearview mirror give you fewer things to worry about when you’re behind the wheel, while the power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment and memory setting, leather upholstery, and a rear center armrest create an opulent experience for both the driver and passengers. 

That said, it’s the tailgate that really benefits from the addition of the Z71 Convenience Package, with Chevy adding its EZ-Lift and StowFlex features to the mix. The EZ-Lift tailgate is designed with a torsion bar and rotary damper that makes for easy access when you’re lifting and lowering, while the StowFlex feature adds a 45-inch-wide, four-inch-deep waterproof compartment with a lockable lid and drain.

Dark Essentials Package

Want to add a distinctive aesthetic to your Z71? Look no further than the Dark Essentials Package. This comprehensive appearance package sees the Colorado graced with a moody makeover from front to back. Black exhaust tips, door sill plates, badging, and nameplates give the Colorado a mature look, while the 20-inch black aluminum wheels immediately distinguish your truck from the rest of the 2024 lineup.   

Experience the 2024 Colorado Z71 Today

The 2024 Colorado Z71 provides a compelling alternative to the other midsize models that crowd today’s market. Offering an ideal combination of off-road performance, towing ability, convenience, and comfort, the Z71 trim should be on any driver’s shortlist when they test-drive 2024 pickups. From its Eaton automatic locking rear differential, high-output turbocharged engine, and Off-Road Performance Display to its Driver Control Mode, Hill Descent Control, and available upgrade packages, the Colorado Z71 is so well-rounded that it’s sure to satisfy any driver. 

If you want to learn more about the 2024 Colorado Z71, McCluskey Chevrolet is here to help. As one of Cincinnati’s most experienced and trusted Chevy dealers, we’re here to guide you through every step of the buying process. From the moment you walk into our dealership to the point of sale and beyond, we’ll offer you a level of friendly, knowledgeable service that few can match. Stop by today and see just how easy buying your next truck can be when you team up with McCluskey Chevrolet.