Vehicle Build: ZR2 Duramax

This platform combines not just one, but two automotive industry requests. First, the rebirth of the ZR2 that was abandoned back in 2005 due to low sales volume. Secondly, a smaller displacement diesel in a compact truck. Sure, Ram had already released the EcoDiesel in their half ton fleet, but no one was offering something in a truly compact pickup such as the Colorado or Canyon.

We worked with our Offroad Power Products division to build a reliable and capable truck that would be used as a daily driver, but would frequently be out on the trails. Because Chevy already nailed the suspension system from the factory with the ZR2 models, featuring Multimatic DSSV shocks and an increased ride height, there was minimal upgrades we had to make. A simple to install ReadyLIFT leveling kit allowed us to clear 35x11.50x17 Nitto Trail Grapplers mounted on KMC XD231 beadlocks at all four corners. Because of the taller tires and the frequent offroad use this ZR2 would see, we upgraded the front and rear axles with a Nitro 4.56 ring and pinion gear set so we always had that extra snort at take off.

To help compensate for the low factory horsepower rating, the truck received an updated performance tune file from Calibrated Power via an EFILive AutoCal. Complementing the tuning is a high flow S&B Cold Air Intake that features a sealed airbox to ensure when we're out on dusty trails, it doesn't end up clogging the air filter. And to exhale the exhaust gases faster than the factory system, a Magnaflow Black Series 3.5" DPF Back Exhaust System was installed, plus gives a nice little rumble to this baby Duramax.

As stated, this truck would spend a lot of its time offroad, and so the bed was outfitted like a Snap-On toolbox with everything one may want when spending time in the great outdoors. Featuring a Leitner Designs Bed Rack with Gear Pod and a 23Zero Bundaberg rooftop tent, this ZR2 is a mobile sleeping quarters. Also attached to the rack system is a pair of MaxTrax recovery devices in case things get dicey. And if things get too hairy, a ComeUp 9.5rs winch is mounted behind the factory front bumper. In the bed you'll find a Pro Eagle 2 Ton Offroad Floor Jack securely mounted via one of Pro Eagle's custom mounts and even a Dometic Fridge Freezer to keep snacks and drinks cool while on the road. Finally, a set of Baja Designs Squadrons aid in keeping the trail well lit into teh wee hours of the night.

Overall, the ZR2 has proven itself as a very diversely capable machine and we're all pretty pumped that GM resurrected it with a Duramax.