I have the 2019 model and love it. It doesn't have lots of ground clearance and the hood is a little difficult to look over, but the truck comes with everything I wanted, rock rails, off road tires, front and rear lockers, very torqued diesel and a bunch of other simple extras. Thanks for the review
Watch out for that hpfp changed the original out to a cp3 cuz the cp4 failed me 50k miles in and the replacement cp3 failed 75k miles I’m on my 3rd hpfp but other that that I love it it’s the cleanest looking canyon on the road and I didn’t lift cuz I have a nice wang 😊
@@brendanstanford5612 we have one of these 2.8 and 2.5 duramax in asia. The stock is around 200hp 500nm. Yours in America is detuned to meet your emission standards.
They are actually design by VM Motori , it is the updated version of the 2.8l diesel engine found in the Jeep liberty crd ( 05' 06' ) It was called R428 this one is now called A428. Mercedes also manufacture the A428 for the Jeep wrangler in Europe and Australia with different pollution control configuration !
The most impressive part of this is the engineering. It’s not just a Colorado with taller springs and shocks. They actually reengineered, relocated & strengthened, the suspension mount points. As an aerospace systems engineer, seeing that level of actual systems integration is a big plus. The Taco had been on my wish list for years... but like their cars, Toyota seems to be resting on their laurels of late and the Taco now sits behind some new offerings from other makers. The fuel economy of the Tacoma is also pretty pathetic. Not even compared to the diesel... compare it to the gas GM V6, and the Taco still loses. Pre bankruptcy, I wouldn’t have picked the GM product over the bulletproof Tacoma. But post bankruptcy, they’re very much a different company. Huge steps forward. Also note the baby D-max in this isn’t a new engine with the usual teething problems, it’s co-designed with Isuzu, and they’ve been selling this engine (with different emissions controls) all over Asia and Australia for a long time. Isuzu truck motors are very well regarded and with good reason. If I didn’t already have a perfectly functioning full-size diesel pickup for farm duties, I’d probably have a ZR2 by now.
Get real, the 3.6 V6 in the colorado is marginally better. Speaking of suspension mount points, the rear shock mounts are in a terrible position for a vehicle designed to be off road oriented. The diesel in this truck is boooooring. The multimatic magic and standard front locker are awesome tho
@@MidnughtMerauders The V6 is a decent amount faster and the MPG difference is roughly $220 a year. A truck should last roughly 8-10 years (probably more but most people get a new one after 10), making the Toyota technically $2,200 more over a ~9 year period. For a (albeit slightly) weaker engine.
@@Oozywolf marginally quicker, but neither are fast vehicles. Which truck do you know will be worth more in 10 years? The Tacoma is one of if not the least depreciating vehicles out.
@@MidnughtMerauders Diesel will always have a higher resale. This and the tacoma haven't been out long enough to tell but toyota took a big hit in resale after the frame rot issues they had and the very minor upgrades to their off road packages. Also most of the time the pro cost more unless the diesel is picked even then you can find them within a grand of each other.
I love this truck so much, they hit so many things well on it, then you look at the interior and wonder if that part of the design team were a bunch of slackers.
The Duramax Colorado has been on my radar for a while. I had been wondering how they would handle the type of thing that I do and you answered those quesions pretty well. Thanks!
As a zr2 owner myself, I utilize the android auto/apple car play for navigation. Google maps with the satellite layer allows me to map a route and understand upcoming terrain. Haven't found an obstacle that has slowed down the truck yet, and the interior is much roomier than the Tacoma. I'll take that one step further and say that not having an adjustable seat bottom ruined the trd for me. That being said, a short coming of the truck is not having a 120v plug for accessories.
Hi Jason, Great job with the review. It’s a bit too small for me. I love my double cab Tundra TRD (though the mpg’s are horrible). Though I love your campsite videos, I’d like to see more truck reviews like this. 👍🏼👍🏼 Again, great job.
Jason another fine job. Congrats on going full time. Tundrarich, I have a 2010 DC, 5.7 auto 4x4. I get high 16-18 mpg. I don't think that is bad. Hi, from the West side (Buffalo). 👋👋
If that truck was offered with a manual I'd trade in my 08 Ranger FX4 tomorrow. I'm really liking the Tacoma TRD Pro with a manual. That diesel and front locker is very tasty though
Nice little mini review! You being a ford guy you might want to wait and give the ranger raptor a look before you eventually pull the trigger on a new beast. Assuming your looking to go smaller more maneuverable off road capable. I'm sure the trusty ol superduty will give you the time to find a ride that can hopefully fill the big shoes of your ford. I do like the baby D in the Colorado but I think ford might be putting a diesell in the ranger raptor as well. Great way to live the dream man! I'm your age used to Live in WY and do the sort of stuff you do. Stuck in IN for work right now maybe someday I'll get back out west. In the mean time I'll live vicariously through you and soak up the inspiration of going full time!
I have the GMC Canyon with the v6. It's the All Terrain X package and does everything I need it to do. I installed a 1" lift front and rear and an aluminum skid plate. The truck came with the Goodyear Dura track tires. The tires are amazing off road!!! It is difficult to see over the hood and all 4 corners while doing technical off road. The only thing I wish it had was the desiel. All in all, an awesome truck!
This was a well put together video. I'm definitely not a fan of the zr2 (I want to like it) but I think you did a good job of hitting most relevant points. Subscribed.
Bomb news!! I just read that GM will discontinued the 2.8l Duramax for next year. What do you think about it? The price of it will drop and find parts also will be hard. What's your thoughts about it?
is it really worth getting the diesel engine option?? im just looking for a good daily with lockers that i can take camping and overlanding once i get some money into it... plan on a gentle lift and bigger tires and stuff... is the colorado zr2 a good platform? what would be more responsive to an exhaust intake and chip upgrade? and lastly if you wouldnt mind, in ur opinion what truck would handle the extra weight if overlanding and offroading camping and occassionaly towing? is the diesel truly way more powerful? please help i cannot seem to find any info on if the diesel engine is powerful and worth it... please help me decide... thanks in advance,, i love your videos awesome content.. i just subscribed hope u can help answer my questions... god bless and keep on trailing!! -pistol
Peter Piccolo generally, diesels are excellent for low-speed offroading, because rock crawling requires torque, not horsepower. Diesels provide more torque and less horsepower than gas engines. Diesels are also excellent options for overlanding, primarily because of the better fuel economy. This allows you to travel father off the grid without running out of fuel
You said that you air the tires down to 35 psi. That's the normal recommended pressure for that tires that's indicated on the door sticker. Airing down would be in the low to high teens.
Great review. I really like the look and capabilities of these trucks. Interested to see how the Raptor Ranger answers back and how they fair in the long term. Thanks for the vid!
I haven't driven one of those yet but the Nissan Frontiers also feel very car like after driving full size Fords for so long. Let's hope Ford offers a diesel in the upcoming Ranger and that its visibility is good, then we may have something! Thanks for the review Jason! Have a great week from West Virginia!
Great overview, one of the better I’ve seen and as a matter fact what you do as an adventurer is what I’ve done for years. I’ve tugged travel trailers into places only goats go. I’ve been excited about this truck since it came out and from what I can see it would b the answer for me.
I love everything about the truck, except the infotainment that's hard to see in sunlight, and the rear seat space. That's the reason this video help me decide not to get it. Thanks. You saved me time and money.
Great timing! I picked up a gas ZR2 a couple weeks ago, Leitner Designs rack is on the way and I plan on getting the Decked system after I find a RTT. I noticed they are using a 3rd cross bar on the rack, was the tent attached to it or just sitting on top?
If you are going to maintain stock suspension, go with the ZR2. Otherwise, go with the TRD Offroad and upgrade your shocks to either King or Fox extended travel coilovers (that truck and suspension will total up to about the same price as the ZR2). If you don't want a rear locker, you can even go with an SR5 model Tacoma to give you more money for modifications. The Toyota will be a little slower accelerating, but you'll be able to maintain a faster speed over whoops and other obstacles with the better suspension. There is a lot more aftermarket support for the Tacoma.
I tried that truck a couple of weeks ago, I thought it was good, but the cabin was very small. I'm not going to change it for my Tundra. But if you like that, it's the important thing. Congratulations.
I currently drive a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and I’ve been thinking about downsizing to a Colorado but it really does seem a bit too small for me.
Nice truck but why can't Chevy properly put the rear shocks in a better position? Seems like they are two inches of the ground no matter what you do!....
Perhaps those idiotic engineers at GM should have called upon your vast wealth and depth of mechanical knowledge in modern truck suspension system design.... how could they be sooooooo stupid?
hi there nice review. good job. i want to know about the rack fitted on the rear cabin. As you put the rooftent on top of it, any noise coming from that? was it loud? any impact on the fuel consumption etc etc. I really want to know about it. hope to hear from you soon. Cheers
Looks like a very capable rig, and I wouldn't hesitate to rent it if I was flying in to Oregon. It's a little small for my taste though. I'll stick with my F350 with 7.3. Thanks for the thorough review.
After personally owning a 98 GMC Silverado gasser extended cab and a 00 Ford F250 Powerstroke Diesel crew cab, this baby GMC with the offroad package and diesel is mighty tempting. I will go with this or a Tacoma for my next truck. I love both my trucks, but bigger is not always better. This was a great review Jason. Thanks -Will
Just curious with the diesel, how strongly you can smell the exhaust, especially at slow trail speeds. I cant stand the sickly sweet smell of the new diesel exhaust these days, and this would be a deciding factor in me purchasing diesel vs gas. I know all the torque and fuel mileage numbers, but I don't want to purchase something and then hate walking around it because how strong the exhaust smells. seems petty, but you spend that kind of money, you better like what you bought.
You get more truck for the buc when you buy the ZR2. Tacomas are over priced and over rated. It's great to see Chevy get into the off-road market, even though Ford already nailed it!
I really like both. The interior on the Taco seems to have better fit and finish. Everything is more thought out. The Colorado interior and dash is kinda lackluster to say the least. The better seating position, front locker and Bose sound system are nice, but I'm concerned about how it will hold up over time.
Bro there is a dimmer control next to the steering wheel for the screen. My guess is you did not have the brightness turned all the way up. The truck also has Apple CarPlay and android auto for an infotainment option. Good review other than those misses.
Tim, thanks for the info I did check that it wasn't the issue the screen is just not very good and the dimmer is not going to change the fact the resolution is very poor. I also tried playing with the Android software and it wouldn't connect or work correctly half the time. Maybe it needed an update but since I didn't have service most of the time I couldn't check. I feel they need the ditch the proprietary infotainment system all together and give us a built in mount for us to use are own phone or tablet with a USB connection to the truck for charging and diagnostic data. Having a 20 Year background in Information Technology and knowing how technology advances and changes my guess this proprietary system will be out of date and useless in 3 to 5 years. Jason
Primal Outdoors - Camping and Photography thanks for the reply. Either you had a faulty unit or you had auto selected on the headlights. When the headlights are on the screen is dimmed. It does not take 20 years of IT experience to know that tech becomes obsolete in 3-5 years. What you are describing for the screen is basically what CarPlay is. You plug your phone in and it appears on the infotainment screen. Most of the complaints I have seen have been about the screen being too bright and owning the truck I have never had an issue with dimness. I wanted to give an owner’s opinion of the issue you raised to anyone else watching this video. Also to me the loose dirt hill test you did makes me want to clear something up. Without significant modification the geometry of an off-road truck is never going to be ideal for obstacles like that. Jeeps are designed to tackle obstacles like that. You have pluses and minuses for each platform. If you have a need to tackle those types of obstacles often you will either need to make modifications to the ZR2 or purchase a shorter wheelbase vehicle with a better brake over angle. It is important to understand brake over angle and typically stock off-road oriented trucks underperform other off-road oriented platforms in that metric.
@@timweber2434 I am glad like your truck, and overall I liked it too. I spent quite a bit of time looking at the manual and I stand by the fact I didn't like the infotainment screen, it is not to the quality of modern day tablets. CarPlay is not what I want at all I don't want to look at it on the built in GM Infotainment system, I want to look at it on the latest greatest tablet or smartphone that I can buy and have factory location to mount said smart phone or tablet in place of the infotainment system. If they did it that way it would only be up to GM to update their app and when this vehicle is 20 years old like my old Ford I would still be able see diagnostics on the truck and have the latest Pandora app (just and example) that works on a device that would have the latest tech so all the apps (GM and others) ran smoothly. The hill test I did was more about the approach angle I read a few reviews complaining about it and I felt the truck did great, plus it gave me the opportunity to play with the locker. Overall I thought the truck was great I loved driving it. I don't like the infotainment system and I didn't like the low beam on the headlights (I forgot to mention in the video) the spread has acute cutoff point just below my eye line and when I was driving at night off road if the front of the truck dipped down I couldn't see where I was going, the problem went away with the high beams, but if I was to buy a brand new truck right now it would be this truck, I haven't seen anything on the market that I feel compares to it for the price. In my opinion you own a great truck and if your happy with how it works that is all it matters. Jason
Primal Outdoors - Camping and Photography well thought out reply. I just want to give people a second opinion. I noticed the headlights issue with the truck as well. I ended up putting ditch lights to help aim some extra brightness. Going up on forest service roads ditch lights are almost a must add for this truck. Don’t get me wrong I am not trying to defend the truck no matter what I just wanted to give a second opinion on that screen. I won’t be switching mine out for quite a while, but it would be nice to see keyless entry/ignition and less fake carbon fiber in the cabin on the next refresh. I ended up switching the front bumper to a steel tube prerunner style bumper and putting 32” tires on the truck to help with approach angle. My truck is the Z71 diesel so I also had to put the Eibach long travel front springs and upgraded mono tubes to help fit the 32”’s.
You said Tundra and reliability in the same sentence.... You might want to speak with a few mechanics at your local Toyota delaership before you do that again.
For me, it is overpriced. However I do like the ZR2 Colorado. A lot of people think these trucks are "small" but I looked up the dimensions and compare it to a 90's Silverado ext cab, they are almost identical. Modern day "midsize" trucks are the full size of the past. Colorado ZR2 212-225″ L x 74-77″ W x 70-72″ H 97 Silverado194-237" L x 76-77.8" W 72.6-73.2" H
I did it was very buggy and didn't seem to want to work that well, it may have needed an update but I didn't have service most of the time so I couldn't check. Jason
I would be afraid to take that way off the beaten path do to all its emissions problems with the def system and the over heating issues and the lower clearance. I my self went with the 2017 Tacoma. But good video by Jason
True, I'll be buying a new Tacoma in a few weeks. I wouldn't consider on of these for emissions and service/repair costs. I have spent enough keeping Chevys/GMCs alive. I now have 2 Toyotas..
emission problems? over heating issues? it will keep up with or pass your taco in any situation. i have the gas version though. maybe the diesels have had problems im not aware of. and I also love taco's so no bias there.
If they would have done the shock mounts differently, and given it 33s I would be all over it. Between the small tires and the terrible shock location, just doesn't have the ground clearance for places I like to go.
Probably wanted a professional review, likely because he's reviewing a truck from a company that he seems to be collaborating with for the video. Scripted stuff isn't always bad. Usually cuts "Uh's" and "Um's" out to make a more concise video overall. I haven't seen his other stuff but I really enjoyed how this was done :)
Tucker Ryan just bought a ZR2 exactly like this one, even put the same rack and decked system on it. I traded my Jeep Rubicon for it and only regret not doing it sooner.
unsub they are perfect. I have put almost 2000 miles of mostly off-road driving all while towing a trailer. Nothing slows.this thing down and I am averaging 18mpg.. If you use your head and pick your line then you’ll never have any problems.
if only it comes in a manual... diesel is great, but I can't deal with the DEF and regen. My normal commute is 30 minutes in the city, I would have to purposely get out onto the highway many hours after rush hour, traffic is so bad it's hard to even get to speed limit, so the damn filter doesn't clog up. Diesel is great on paper, especially its city MPG is better than my current small hatchback's highway MPG, but in practice, these new diesels are too high maintenance, and the emission parts are too unreliable... regardless of manufacturer
I really don't think you cold go wrong with this truck. the only thing that's lacking is power, a tune fixes that but still very low numbers at the extra cost.
I have one and rarely have to go pedal to the metal it's a pretty light truck seems to have plenty of power for daily driving I don't need a race car Plus you can't beat over 20MPG in town and over 30 on the highway
I have the 2019 model and love it. It doesn't have lots of ground clearance and the hood is a little difficult to look over, but the truck comes with everything I wanted, rock rails, off road tires, front and rear lockers, very torqued diesel and a bunch of other simple extras. Thanks for the review
Watch out for that hpfp changed the original out to a cp3 cuz the cp4 failed me 50k miles in and the replacement cp3 failed 75k miles I’m on my 3rd hpfp but other that that I love it it’s the cleanest looking canyon on the road and I didn’t lift cuz I have a nice wang 😊
Pretty sick having a Duramax in a small, lightweight truck like that. Throw in a bigger turbo and a chip... hell yeah
Remapped on of these max out 248hp 590nm
@@armanpena3870 Thanks for the info. I diddnt know these were low hp diesels
@@brendanstanford5612 we have one of these 2.8 and 2.5 duramax in asia. The stock is around 200hp 500nm. Yours in America is detuned to meet your emission standards.
@@armanpena3870 Is there anyway to "tune" these little diesels to boost their horsepower?
They are actually design by VM Motori , it is the updated version of the 2.8l diesel engine found in the Jeep liberty crd ( 05' 06' ) It was called R428 this one is now called A428. Mercedes also manufacture the A428 for the Jeep wrangler in Europe and Australia with different pollution control configuration !
The most impressive part of this is the engineering. It’s not just a Colorado with taller springs and shocks. They actually reengineered, relocated & strengthened, the suspension mount points. As an aerospace systems engineer, seeing that level of actual systems integration is a big plus.
The Taco had been on my wish list for years... but like their cars, Toyota seems to be resting on their laurels of late and the Taco now sits behind some new offerings from other makers. The fuel economy of the Tacoma is also pretty pathetic. Not even compared to the diesel... compare it to the gas GM V6, and the Taco still loses.
Pre bankruptcy, I wouldn’t have picked the GM product over the bulletproof Tacoma. But post bankruptcy, they’re very much a different company. Huge steps forward. Also note the baby D-max in this isn’t a new engine with the usual teething problems, it’s co-designed with Isuzu, and they’ve been selling this engine (with different emissions controls) all over Asia and Australia for a long time. Isuzu truck motors are very well regarded and with good reason.
If I didn’t already have a perfectly functioning full-size diesel pickup for farm duties, I’d probably have a ZR2 by now.
Get real, the 3.6 V6 in the colorado is marginally better. Speaking of suspension mount points, the rear shock mounts are in a terrible position for a vehicle designed to be off road oriented. The diesel in this truck is boooooring. The multimatic magic and standard front locker are awesome tho
@@MidnughtMerauders The V6 is a decent amount faster and the MPG difference is roughly $220 a year. A truck should last roughly 8-10 years (probably more but most people get a new one after 10), making the Toyota technically $2,200 more over a ~9 year period. For a (albeit slightly) weaker engine.
@@Oozywolf marginally quicker, but neither are fast vehicles. Which truck do you know will be worth more in 10 years? The Tacoma is one of if not the least depreciating vehicles out.
@@MidnughtMerauders Diesel will always have a higher resale. This and the tacoma haven't been out long enough to tell but toyota took a big hit in resale after the frame rot issues they had and the very minor upgrades to their off road packages. Also most of the time the pro cost more unless the diesel is picked even then you can find them within a grand of each other.
Tacoma is well documented as the perennial king of minimal depreciation.
You aired down to 35 psi That's about the pressure you should run with on the street Maybe you met more like 20 or 25 psi
Yeah maybe he meant 25
They're probably 10-ply tires and run them at 50 PSI on-road. These tires can take up to 80 PSI.
I love this truck so much, they hit so many things well on it, then you look at the interior and wonder if that part of the design team were a bunch of slackers.
The Duramax Colorado has been on my radar for a while. I had been wondering how they would handle the type of thing that I do and you answered those quesions pretty well. Thanks!
professional, unbiased review. great job!
I just picked up a 2018 Colorado zr2 diesel iv been getting 21mpg hwy/city . 24/25 straight hwy I love the truck.
I've seen people say they're getting 30 mph on hwy.
It is definitely a nice rig. I love my Toyota rig but the ZR2 would be the next on my list.
I just picked 1 up 1st GM I've ever owned And have no regrets I love this truck
Great video and review! Very thorough.. covered all the points i wanted to know about before buying that truck. Thank you.
As a zr2 owner myself, I utilize the android auto/apple car play for navigation.
Google maps with the satellite layer allows me to map a route and understand upcoming terrain.
Haven't found an obstacle that has slowed down the truck yet, and the interior is much roomier than the Tacoma. I'll take that one step further and say that not having an adjustable seat bottom ruined the trd for me.
That being said, a short coming of the truck is not having a 120v plug for accessories.
Hi Jason,
Great job with the review. It’s a bit too small for me. I love my double cab Tundra TRD (though the mpg’s are horrible).
Though I love your campsite videos, I’d like to see more truck reviews like this. 👍🏼👍🏼
Again, great job.
Jason another fine job. Congrats on going full time.
Tundrarich, I have a 2010 DC, 5.7 auto 4x4. I get high 16-18 mpg. I don't think that is bad. Hi, from the West side (Buffalo). 👋👋
Great honest review Jason......amazing truck put to a test and past :).... awesome pics\vids of the countryside and landscape !
Of course a guy named chevyrok14 is gonna love a Chevy video! 👍🏻
The owners manual will show you how to upload GPS coordinates, into the nav system via usb flash stick.
Nice truck! Super reliable
5:52 . Good, honest review. Even better taste in music!!!
If that truck was offered with a manual I'd trade in my 08 Ranger FX4 tomorrow.
I'm really liking the Tacoma TRD Pro with a manual.
That diesel and front locker is very tasty though
Do you really wanna be riding clutch everytime in the trails
Nice little mini review! You being a ford guy you might want to wait and give the ranger raptor a look before you eventually pull the trigger on a new beast. Assuming your looking to go smaller more maneuverable off road capable. I'm sure the trusty ol superduty will give you the time to find a ride that can hopefully fill the big shoes of your ford. I do like the baby D in the Colorado but I think ford might be putting a diesell in the ranger raptor as well. Great way to live the dream man! I'm your age used to Live in WY and do the sort of stuff you do. Stuck in IN for work right now maybe someday I'll get back out west. In the mean time I'll live vicariously through you and soak up the inspiration of going full time!
Ranger Raptor isn't coming to the US.
I have the GMC Canyon with the v6. It's the All Terrain X package and does everything I need it to do.
I installed a 1" lift front and rear and an aluminum skid plate.
The truck came with the Goodyear Dura track tires. The tires are amazing off road!!!
It is difficult to see over the hood and all 4 corners while doing technical off road.
The only thing I wish it had was the desiel.
All in all, an awesome truck!
This was a well put together video. I'm definitely not a fan of the zr2 (I want to like it) but I think you did a good job of hitting most relevant points. Subscribed.
Bomb news!! I just read that GM will discontinued the 2.8l Duramax for next year. What do you think about it? The price of it will drop and find parts also will be hard. What's your thoughts about it?
is it really worth getting the diesel engine option?? im just looking for a good daily with lockers that i can take camping and overlanding once i get some money into it... plan on a gentle lift and bigger tires and stuff... is the colorado zr2 a good platform? what would be more responsive to an exhaust intake and chip upgrade? and lastly if you wouldnt mind, in ur opinion what truck would handle the extra weight if overlanding and offroading camping and occassionaly towing? is the diesel truly way more powerful? please help i cannot seem to find any info on if the diesel engine is powerful and worth it... please help me decide... thanks in advance,, i love your videos awesome content.. i just subscribed hope u can help answer my questions... god bless and keep on trailing!!
-pistol
Peter Piccolo generally, diesels are excellent for low-speed offroading, because rock crawling requires torque, not horsepower. Diesels provide more torque and less horsepower than gas engines.
Diesels are also excellent options for overlanding, primarily because of the better fuel economy. This allows you to travel father off the grid without running out of fuel
You said that you air the tires down to 35 psi. That's the normal recommended pressure for that tires that's indicated on the door sticker.
Airing down would be in the low to high teens.
They had them up to 45 because of the extra weight in the truck.
Saw your video with Kevin from Lifestyle Overland. I like your content. Subbed👍
The ZR2 is almost Jeep Wrangled sized. The rack and drawer system is the way to go when adding room for gear.
Great review. I really like the look and capabilities of these trucks. Interested to see how the Raptor Ranger answers back and how they fair in the long term. Thanks for the vid!
The Ranger Raptor isn't coming to the US.
Great video and overview of the Colorado. Really like that Duramax, thanks for sharing.
I haven't driven one of those yet but the Nissan Frontiers also feel very car like after driving full size Fords for so long. Let's hope Ford offers a diesel in the upcoming Ranger and that its visibility is good, then we may have something! Thanks for the review Jason! Have a great week from West Virginia!
Great overview, one of the better I’ve seen and as a matter fact what you do as an adventurer is what I’ve done for years. I’ve tugged travel trailers into places only goats go. I’ve been excited about this truck since it came out and from what I can see it would b the answer for me.
Yeah but I've pulled them farther and gone more than you do it's probably better for me, just sayin
It was a pleasure meeting you at the Umatilla National Forest.
Yeah, Marco thanks for the helpful information 👍
I love everything about the truck, except the infotainment that's hard to see in sunlight, and the rear seat space. That's the reason this video help me decide not to get it. Thanks. You saved me time and money.
Got to love the babby duro max as long as it is reliable like its big brother you got a winner with that low end torc.
nice shots man, good production quality. i love the new Colorado.
Solid Review Jason. Nicely done.
Great timing! I picked up a gas ZR2 a couple weeks ago, Leitner Designs rack is on the way and I plan on getting the Decked system after I find a RTT.
I noticed they are using a 3rd cross bar on the rack, was the tent attached to it or just sitting on top?
The tent just sits on top. We wanted extra rigidity since it's being used commercially.
American Overland still in business? Website appears to down.
Best zr2 review
Fun video. Great review. Thanks Jason.
Nice review, very informative. Thanks for posting.
I love mine. Great video
If I want more of a "Baja truck" should I go with the regular gas zr2, or Tacoma trd?
If you are going to maintain stock suspension, go with the ZR2. Otherwise, go with the TRD Offroad and upgrade your shocks to either King or Fox extended travel coilovers (that truck and suspension will total up to about the same price as the ZR2). If you don't want a rear locker, you can even go with an SR5 model Tacoma to give you more money for modifications. The Toyota will be a little slower accelerating, but you'll be able to maintain a faster speed over whoops and other obstacles with the better suspension. There is a lot more aftermarket support for the Tacoma.
I tried that truck a couple of weeks ago, I thought it was good, but the cabin was very small. I'm not going to change it for my Tundra. But if you like that, it's the important thing. Congratulations.
Hasn't the ZR2 has been around for 1 year; how can anyone know if it's dependable or durable?
its everywhere in the Far East Pacific(asia). It's new in the USA.
Hell yeah and playing Whiskey Myers on the radio
I currently drive a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and I’ve been thinking about downsizing to a Colorado but it really does seem a bit too small for me.
Nice truck but why can't Chevy properly put the rear shocks in a better position? Seems like they are two inches of the ground no matter what you do!....
Perhaps those idiotic engineers at GM should have called upon your vast wealth and depth of mechanical knowledge in modern truck suspension system design.... how could they be sooooooo stupid?
@wy wybulldog or maybe just copy Toyota! Not that hard bro!😂
@mike a
@@mojavedesert2610
hi there
nice review. good job.
i want to know about the rack fitted on the rear cabin. As you put the rooftent on top of it, any noise coming from that? was it loud? any impact on the fuel consumption etc etc.
I really want to know about it. hope to hear from you soon.
Cheers
Have yet to drive one of these beauties but great video. Thanks for sharing!
Looks like a very capable rig, and I wouldn't hesitate to rent it if I was flying in to Oregon. It's a little small for my taste though. I'll stick with my F350 with 7.3. Thanks for the thorough review.
After personally owning a 98 GMC Silverado gasser extended cab and a 00 Ford F250 Powerstroke Diesel crew cab, this baby GMC with the offroad package and diesel is mighty tempting. I will go with this or a Tacoma for my next truck. I love both my trucks, but bigger is not always better. This was a great review Jason. Thanks -Will
Enjoyed the review 👍🙏🏻
Jason, what did you think of the Leitner rack? Is it sturdy enough? I'm thinking of buying one.
We put it through its paces in the desert definitely a stout product.
Thanks Stuart!!
Checknout the Wilco racks as well. The have good tailgate replacement options.
I’d buy a truck from you! Haha great review, I love the honesty
Looks fun to take on a adventure.
I may have to. Looks fun.
I was looking forward to a glass of Pendleton near the end. 🥃
Did you have any issues with the low mounted rear shocks?
Just curious with the diesel, how strongly you can smell the exhaust, especially at slow trail speeds. I cant stand the sickly sweet smell of the new diesel exhaust these days, and this would be a deciding factor in me purchasing diesel vs gas. I know all the torque and fuel mileage numbers, but I don't want to purchase something and then hate walking around it because how strong the exhaust smells. seems petty, but you spend that kind of money, you better like what you bought.
You can't smell it at all.
I like the colorado ZR2. I'd probably get the V6 engine if it's available for the 2018
His is my favorite mid size truck with the diesel
Great review Jason!!! I always liked the ZR2’s but I’ll stick with my Tacoma😊
You get more truck for the buc when you buy the ZR2. Tacomas are over priced and over rated. It's great to see Chevy get into the off-road market, even though Ford already nailed it!
Funny when opinions are stated as fact.... Also, TRD Pro is $4k cheaper and will likely hold its value better over time....
I really like both. The interior on the Taco seems to have better fit and finish. Everything is more thought out. The Colorado interior and dash is kinda lackluster to say the least. The better seating position, front locker and Bose sound system are nice, but I'm concerned about how it will hold up over time.
Bro there is a dimmer control next to the steering wheel for the screen. My guess is you did not have the brightness turned all the way up. The truck also has Apple CarPlay and android auto for an infotainment option. Good review other than those misses.
Tim, thanks for the info I did check that it wasn't the issue the screen is just not very good and the dimmer is not going to change the fact the resolution is very poor. I also tried playing with the Android software and it wouldn't connect or work correctly half the time. Maybe it needed an update but since I didn't have service most of the time I couldn't check. I feel they need the ditch the proprietary infotainment system all together and give us a built in mount for us to use are own phone or tablet with a USB connection to the truck for charging and diagnostic data. Having a 20 Year background in Information Technology and knowing how technology advances and changes my guess this proprietary system will be out of date and useless in 3 to 5 years.
Jason
Primal Outdoors - Camping and Photography thanks for the reply. Either you had a faulty unit or you had auto selected on the headlights. When the headlights are on the screen is dimmed. It does not take 20 years of IT experience to know that tech becomes obsolete in 3-5 years. What you are describing for the screen is basically what CarPlay is. You plug your phone in and it appears on the infotainment screen. Most of the complaints I have seen have been about the screen being too bright and owning the truck I have never had an issue with dimness. I wanted to give an owner’s opinion of the issue you raised to anyone else watching this video.
Also to me the loose dirt hill test you did makes me want to clear something up. Without significant modification the geometry of an off-road truck is never going to be ideal for obstacles like that. Jeeps are designed to tackle obstacles like that. You have pluses and minuses for each platform. If you have a need to tackle those types of obstacles often you will either need to make modifications to the ZR2 or purchase a shorter wheelbase vehicle with a better brake over angle.
It is important to understand brake over angle and typically stock off-road oriented trucks underperform other off-road oriented platforms in that metric.
@@timweber2434 I am glad like your truck, and overall I liked it too. I spent quite a bit of time looking at the manual and I stand by the fact I didn't like the infotainment screen, it is not to the quality of modern day tablets. CarPlay is not what I want at all I don't want to look at it on the built in GM Infotainment system, I want to look at it on the latest greatest tablet or smartphone that I can buy and have factory location to mount said smart phone or tablet in place of the infotainment system. If they did it that way it would only be up to GM to update their app and when this vehicle is 20 years old like my old Ford I would still be able see diagnostics on the truck and have the latest Pandora app (just and example) that works on a device that would have the latest tech so all the apps (GM and others) ran smoothly.
The hill test I did was more about the approach angle I read a few reviews complaining about it and I felt the truck did great, plus it gave me the opportunity to play with the locker. Overall I thought the truck was great I loved driving it. I don't like the infotainment system and I didn't like the low beam on the headlights (I forgot to mention in the video) the spread has acute cutoff point just below my eye line and when I was driving at night off road if the front of the truck dipped down I couldn't see where I was going, the problem went away with the high beams, but if I was to buy a brand new truck right now it would be this truck, I haven't seen anything on the market that I feel compares to it for the price. In my opinion you own a great truck and if your happy with how it works that is all it matters.
Jason
Primal Outdoors - Camping and Photography well thought out reply. I just want to give people a second opinion. I noticed the headlights issue with the truck as well. I ended up putting ditch lights to help aim some extra brightness. Going up on forest service roads ditch lights are almost a must add for this truck. Don’t get me wrong I am not trying to defend the truck no matter what I just wanted to give a second opinion on that screen.
I won’t be switching mine out for quite a while, but it would be nice to see keyless entry/ignition and less fake carbon fiber in the cabin on the next refresh.
I ended up switching the front bumper to a steel tube prerunner style bumper and putting 32” tires on the truck to help with approach angle.
My truck is the Z71 diesel so I also had to put the Eibach long travel front springs and upgraded mono tubes to help fit the 32”’s.
Jason,
Consider a Toyota Tundra. Most reliable full sized truck you can buy.
And before someone asks, look it up yourself. Many sources agree.
You said Tundra and reliability in the same sentence.... You might want to speak with a few mechanics at your local Toyota delaership before you do that again.
Colorado ZR2 better than any Tacoma out there. Best midsize truck on the market.
More comfortable too.
no, cheaply built and we are seing lots of low milage failures in them
cheaply built? what about it is cheaper than a tacoma lol every automaker pulls the same tricks now a days toyota is no different
ElJomoL it’ll be interesting to see how the ranger is going to stack up to the Colorado
hey the glue sniffing frenchy is back, where you been havent seen your downy rhetoric in months
Good review. What's the soundtrack?
Great unbiased review Jason. Hope you can dial one of these in one day.
Aired down to 35....lol
FishHead I was thinking that too lol
Whiskey Myers! you earned a Sub for that one haha
Yes I like the truck
For me, it is overpriced. However I do like the ZR2 Colorado. A lot of people think these trucks are "small" but I looked up the dimensions and compare it to a 90's Silverado ext cab, they are almost identical. Modern day "midsize" trucks are the full size of the past. Colorado ZR2 212-225″ L x 74-77″ W x 70-72″ H 97 Silverado194-237" L x 76-77.8" W 72.6-73.2" H
its a fantastic truck
And here I thought you were a loyal Ford owner!!!!
brand loyalty is pointless buy what works good
@@13christbane Exactly. People act like they are being sponsored by these companies. I just research and buy what's best for me.
Hey Jason, Casey's jeep is on fire and completely destroyed. He's stranded out in the middle of the desert!
Good review !
Thanks!
How does it go with Ford 150 raptor?
Great Video. 👍
Did you happen to try out the Android Auto on the stereo? It uses Google maps
I did it was very buggy and didn't seem to want to work that well, it may have needed an update but I didn't have service most of the time so I couldn't check.
Jason
Ugh. Unfortunately there are thousands of complaints about this so probably wasn’t you. Bummer. Stick to the back country navigator lol
I would be afraid to take that way off the beaten path do to all its emissions problems with the def system and the over heating issues and the lower clearance. I my self went with the 2017 Tacoma. But good video by Jason
True, I'll be buying a new Tacoma in a few weeks. I wouldn't consider on of these for emissions and service/repair costs. I have spent enough keeping Chevys/GMCs alive. I now have 2 Toyotas..
emission problems? over heating issues? it will keep up with or pass your taco in any situation. i have the gas version though. maybe the diesels have had problems im not aware of. and I also love taco's so no bias there.
@@13christbane diesel only with the issues as far as I know the gas engine is just fine. But the 9 speed automatic some have issues
If they would have done the shock mounts differently, and given it 33s I would be all over it. Between the small tires and the terrible shock location, just doesn't have the ground clearance for places I like to go.
Bring back the S10 and then I will buy one.
Why? I've owned S-10's and the old and new model Colorado's. The newest Colorado's are a much nicer truck.
i wish i waited for the 1/2 ton with the diesel. anyways, i love the 5.3L.
Good truck.
Ram needs to put a cummins engine in the next dakota with the rebel or longhorn interior.
Sure is cool.
Wished it had a manual transmission option.
98% of TRD Toyotas are automatics.
J X well 0% of the duramax Colorado’s are
Got a 6 speed manual with the 2.8 here in Australia. Great car.
Isuzu did a great job with this truck!
Nothing to do with Isuzu !!!!!
@@egSmith-sp9gl You might want to do some research on the Australian Isuzu D-Max.
@@SimonElenor Isuzu made some of the d-max engine but not this one
@@egSmith-sp9gl Not Duramax! D-Max! It is a truck made by Isuzu that Chevy borrowed. Look it up on Google.
@@SimonElenor I was wrong, look's like the a428 is made at the Rayong, Thailand Isuzu plant !
you sounded like you were recording an audiobook the entire video....
0:40 I did a double take thinking there was a small BEAR in your back seat!!
Why does it sound like a very scripted review? It doesn't sound your natural you.
Probably wanted a professional review, likely because he's reviewing a truck from a company that he seems to be collaborating with for the video. Scripted stuff isn't always bad. Usually cuts "Uh's" and "Um's" out to make a more concise video overall. I haven't seen his other stuff but I really enjoyed how this was done :)
Yeah too robotic reading from que cards
@@EGGINFOOLS
@@wywybulldog3785 They're there. Don't get your feelings hurt snowflake. It's called constructive criticism.
@@EGGINFOOLS
Needs an LS3! 😁
Give me this over a taco any day especially W the dmax, pull the trigger on this rig!
Tucker Ryan just bought a ZR2 exactly like this one, even put the same rack and decked system on it. I traded my Jeep Rubicon for it and only regret not doing it sooner.
How are the rear shock mounts doing? Did you rip them off yet? Great design by Chevy
@@MrApplesaucestuff That the only bad thing about the Colorado.
unsub they are perfect. I have put almost 2000 miles of mostly off-road driving all while towing a trailer. Nothing slows.this thing down and I am averaging 18mpg.. If you use your head and pick your line then you’ll never have any problems.
Sounds like a go Jason.
if only it comes in a manual... diesel is great, but I can't deal with the DEF and regen. My normal commute is 30 minutes in the city, I would have to purposely get out onto the highway many hours after rush hour, traffic is so bad it's hard to even get to speed limit, so the damn filter doesn't clog up. Diesel is great on paper, especially its city MPG is better than my current small hatchback's highway MPG, but in practice, these new diesels are too high maintenance, and the emission parts are too unreliable... regardless of manufacturer
I would get one but I dont think it would be a good tow rig at all
I really don't think you cold go wrong with this truck. the only thing that's lacking is power, a tune fixes that but still very low numbers at the extra cost.
I have one and rarely have to go pedal to the metal it's a pretty light truck seems to have plenty of power for daily driving I don't need a race car Plus you can't beat over 20MPG in town and over 30 on the highway
Great setup but probably to pricey for me. Stick with my F150 for now.
I never use the built in maps on mine. hook your phone up via the USB and mirror the screen
I swear I just seen this vehicle pulling a trailer in Duchesne, Utah
It's an American pickup truck with Thai engine!
Looks nice,and capable but i just dont like the gear shift at all.weird huh? Lol
robert mcguire I agree it looks like Chevy pulled the same old shifter from 1981, I think you go aftermarket.