Baby steps. That is the phrase we would use to describe how General Motors is approaching the rugged opportunities provided with the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon twins.
When we last sat down with Chevrolet to discuss the introduction of the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Trail Boss, the approach was defined: offer near full-blown accessory packages from the factory to keep more aftermarket spending by the consumer at the dealership.
Now, Chevrolet has upped the ante with the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Trail Boss, providing further off-the-beaten-path thrills right from the dealer lot. Though, most of the special edition and accessory packs have been directed towards the bowtie, some may question why GMC hasn’t been graced with the same treatment.
There may be a plausible explanation behind this.
It’s clear GMC is the “Professional Grade.” More features and extra luxurious touches whisper “white collar” more so than the Chevy’s appeal. There’s a reason why the GMC Canyon has been spied in Denali specification and we haven’t heard, or seen, a peep or image on a Chevrolet Colorado High Country for the U.S. It makes sense to define each truck’s purpose in the marketplace, despite being identical corporate cousins.
This leaves Chevrolet to explore the rugged side of things, and GMC to scoop up the softer consumers looking for the functionality of a midsize truck, but have no plans to do any off-road dirty deeds with their trusty steeds.
Besides, those baby steps may become one greater step forward. If we’ve read Chevrolet’s attitude correctly (which we’re pretty sure we have) surrounding the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 concept, we’re very close to a production-spec truck. After all, Chevrolet explicitly noted the concept was built on purpose.
Comments
This is still just an appearance package, I think GM NEEDS to make the Colorado Zr2 because the Zr2 actually modifies the vehicle to improve off road performance while still getting the aggressive look that people buy the trail boss for in the first place. Other brands like Ford and Toyota offer packages that actually do something mechanically to the vehicle to enhance capability.
I agree with Tanner… this will cost 40K plus and it’s just cheap “ascetics” . When the ZR2 came out back in the 90’s I remember my jaw dropping. I was young but could I could still see that it was Bad A**. They lifted it, threw some nice Bilstiens on along with a little suspension mod and gave you BFG ATs. If i’m going to pay 40K for a midsize I need more than a plastic roll bar and aftermarket wheels. We need a mini Raptor like truck… now I would buy that!!!
I would also like to see the diesel in this package along with some of the comments from Tanner.