Chevy Bison Stampedes on the Scene

We already knew the Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison was coming to market, but GM just made it official. In January 2019, the midsize off-road pickup will stampede into showrooms and enthusiasts’ hearts.

Created with help from American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), the Bison takes a regular Colorado ZR2 and pumps up the rugged factor.

With off-roading, damaging vital components on rocks, tree stumps, etc. is a problem. The Bison comes with five hot-stamped Boron steel skid plates that cover the engine oil pan, transfer case, fuel tank, and both the front and rear locking differentials. These should take a real beating and not bend, giving you confidence to do stupid things on trails.

The front grille with oversized “Chevrolet” lettering seems like a rip-off of the Ford Raptor’s design. It’s a dead-giveaway that this isn’t a regular Colorado. Also included are steel bumpers, with provisions for mounting a winch on the front bumper, plus standard fog lights. The rear bumper has integrated recovery points, which are invaluable on a trail.

Other exclusive pieces of equipment include the 17 x 8-inch aluminum wheels. Wrapped around them are 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires. Bigger fender flares accommodate the additional rubber.

Unfortunately, the snorkel is an optional piece of equipment. You also can add the 2.8-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine for great low-end torque.

Chevrolet hasn’t released even a hint at pricing. That will come out likely in late fall or early winter, just before the Colorado ZR2 Bison launches.