Chevrolet has long been a leader in the off-road truck market, producing rugged vehicles capable of handling extreme terrain while delivering power and comfort.
Whether you’re heading for an overlanding adventure or tackling rugged, technical trails, Chevrolet’s range of trucks offers something for every type of off-roading enthusiast.
Here’s an expanded breakdown of the ten best Chevrolet trucks for off-roading, complete with their off-road gear, unique purposes, and differentiating features.
Chevrolet was founded on November 3, 1911, by Louis Chevrolet, Arthur Chevrolet, and William C. Durant. The company is headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, United States of America, and is owned by General Motors. Its current CEO is Mary Barra. All information has been sourced from the manufacturer’s available archives.
Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss
The Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss is designed for those who want an affordable mid-size truck that can handle itself when the going gets tough.
It’s a solid entry-level truck for those who need a balance between both daily utility and reliable off-road performance. Its off-road credentials include a factory-installed 2-inch suspension lift, all-terrain tires, and factory skid plates.
The raised suspension provides extra ground clearance and improved approach and departure angles, while the Drive Mode Selector allows you to adapt to changing trail conditions. The Trail Boss also includes an automatic locking rear differential, offering better traction on uneven surfaces.
It’s one of the best Chevy pickups out there. Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss — Base MSRP: “$37,600”, Ground Clearance: “9.51 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “Factory 2-Inch Lift, All-Terrain Tires, Automatic Locking Rear Differential.”
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck is all-new, now with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine under the hood.
The ZR2’s bold stance, chunky tires, aggressive front-end styling, chamfered bumper corners, and high-riding suspension set it apart visually.
In comparison, the rest of the Colorado lineup might seem tame, their appearances blending together into what some might dismiss as ordinary midsize trucks for those unable—or unwilling—to splurge on the all-out ZR2.
However, that perception is challenged by the new Colorado’s comprehensive emphasis on off-road capability and, in particular, by the surprisingly well-equipped and affordably priced Colorado Trail Boss.
Once merely an option package, the Trail Boss has been elevated to its own distinct trim level within the newly redesigned 2023 Chevrolet Colorado family. Positioned as the gateway to the trio of off-road-oriented Colorados—sitting below the Z71 and the top-tier ZR2—it opens at a very approachable $38,495.
To the casual observer, comparing the Trail Boss to the ZR2 might make it seem like just another Colorado adorned with a black plastic grille, some fender flares, and a few stickers on the bed. But dig a little deeper, and the Trail Boss proves itself with an impressive suite of features.
Standard equipment includes 32-inch all-terrain tires (with mud-terrain versions available for an extra $495), an automatic-locking rear differential, a front skidplate, a 2.0-inch suspension lift, and a 3.0-inch-wider track than what’s found on the Colorado WT and LT models.
Unlike the WT and LT, which only offer four-wheel drive as an option, the Trail Boss is the first trim on the pricing spectrum to provide it as standard—joining the Z71 and ZR2 in that regard.
It also marks the first affordable entry in the lineup to come with low-range gearing, as the four-wheel-drive systems on the lower trims only operate in high-range modes. Additionally, every 4WD Colorado includes an “auto” mode for high range, which automatically engages four-wheel drive when wheel slip is detected.
Powering the Trail Boss is the “Turbo Plus” version of the Colorado’s shared 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers a robust 310 horsepower but comes with a slightly lower torque output of 391 lb-ft, compared to the 430 lb-ft found in the ZR2. Other base models start with a 237-hp, 260-lb-ft tune of the same engine.
However, customers who choose the Trail Boss or similarly equipped trims can upgrade to the 430 lb-ft output via a dealer-installed, fully warrantied engine control unit reflash for $395.
This mid-tier engine calibration will be discontinued next year, simplifying the engine lineup so that all 310-hp Colorados will come standard with 430 lb-ft of torque.
In addition to its mechanical prowess, the Trail Boss comes packed with intelligent support software. Drivers benefit from multiple drive modes including Off-Road and Terrain—on top of standard modes like Tow, Haul, and Eco.
The Terrain mode introduces a clever one-pedal driving feature, similar to what’s found in electric vehicles, that allows the truck to come to a complete stop when the driver lifts off the accelerator. This system can be fine-tuned for sensitivity using the up and down gear-selection buttons located on the gear shifter.
One-pedal driving is especially useful when navigating over uneven obstacles, eliminating the need for left-foot braking as each wheel drops down behind rocks, into ditches, or over other rugged terrain. Hill-descent control is also standard, adding further confidence and control when driving downhill in difficult environments.
Chevrolet Colorado Z71
The Chevrolet Colorado Z71 is a blend of daily usability and off-road capability, designed for adventurers who need to switch between urban driving and light off-roading.
The Z71 does not benefit from the factory 2-inch lift, but it does benefit from the same all-terrain tires and auto locking rear differential. This gives the Z71 great driving dynamics across different terrains.
The Chevy Colorado Z71 also comes equipped with hill descent control to help you navigate tricky downhill sections on the trail, and some underbody protection to protect the truck’s underside.
If you want one of the best Chevrolet cars for off-roading that won’t cost the earth, the Colorado Z71 is a good option.
Chevrolet Colorado Z71 — Base MSRP: “$42,095”, Ground Clearance: “8.9 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “All-Terrain Tires, Automatic Locking Rear Differential, Hill Descent Control.”
Few vehicles have performed as well in our Of the Year awards as the Chevrolet Colorado. The previous-generation version of this midsize pickup earned our highest truck accolades twice, and we’ve now named the latest iteration our 2024 Truck of the Year.
Unless you’re consistently towing over 8,000 pounds or carrying more than 1,600 pounds in the bed, it’s hard to find a truck as enjoyable and practical. Among its competitors in the midsize segment are the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and GMC Canyon.
Chevrolet introduced a completely redesigned Colorado for the 2023 model year, featuring updated styling, upgraded powertrains, and a far more refined interior.
Last year also saw the debut of the rugged ZR2 Bison and the standardization of the 11.3-inch digital instrument cluster. For 2025, the base LR2 Turbo engine has been dropped, leaving the L3B TurboMax as the only available powertrain across the entire lineup.
Following up a Truck of the Year winner comes with lofty expectations, but Chevrolet’s third-generation Colorado exceeded them, earning our 2024 Truck of the Year title. Even from our first drive, we were impressed by the new turbocharged four-cylinder engine options.
They deliver strong torque and smooth performance, especially the version that puts out 430 lb-ft of torque. We also commend its surprisingly agile handling—this midsize truck corners with the balance and confidence of a smaller, lighter vehicle.
The lower-tier LT trim is both comfortable and well-equipped, though we do wish it included a low-range transfer case. We also encountered a few quality issues with early production units. That said, every version of the Colorado exhibits serious off-road potential, particularly the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 trims.
In a head-to-head test against rivals like the Jeep Gladiator Mojave X and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, the unstoppable Colorado ZR2 Bison came out as the overall winner. Interior quality is generally solid, though we’d prefer a more spacious rear seat.
While there are a few cost-cutting details visible to discerning eyes, the Colorado does a good job of hiding them, and we’ve been pleased with the inclusion of a large infotainment display and the now-standard digital instrument cluster.
As a whole, the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado is a capable, comfortable, and thoroughly modern midsize truck that rightfully earns its place at the top of our list.
In contrast to the previous generation, all 2025 Chevrolet Colorado models are powered by variations of a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard on most trims, with four-wheel drive available as an option.
Previously, the WT and LT trims featured a version of this engine that produced 237 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque.
For 2025, every Colorado is now equipped with the higher-output version of the 2.7-liter engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque—a configuration Chevrolet calls the TurboMax. Fuel efficiency for rear-wheel-drive models is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
For four-wheel-drive versions, that drops to around 17/21 mpg, and in the ZR2 trim, it can go as low as 16/16 mpg. In our tests, 0-60 mph acceleration times ranged from 6.0 to 6.9 seconds, depending on the specific trim.
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is a serious off-roader equipped with high-tech gear. The ZR2 is made for the off-road purist, built to handle the most punishing terrain—from rock crawling to desert crossings—without sacrificing performance or durability.
It features Multimatic DSSV dampers (Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve) that provide precise control and stability, along with an additional three inches of ground clearance.
This model also comes with front and rear electronic locking differentials, a feature not commonly found in mid-size trucks. Its 33-inch mud-terrain tires add to its off-road prowess, while underbody protection in the form of skid plates and off-road rocker protectors ensures improved durability when navigating rough trails.
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 — Base MSRP: “$47,100”, Ground Clearance: “10.73 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “Multimatic DSSV Dampers, Electronic Locking Differentials, Off-road Rocker Protectors.”
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition takes the impressive capabilities of the ZR2 to an even higher level. It’s built for extreme overlanding and off-road enthusiasts who demand the absolute best in protection, ruggedness, and off-road performance.
Co-developed with AEV (American Expedition Vehicles), the Bison Edition is outfitted with five hot-stamped Boron steel skid plates for superior underbody protection. This trim also includes heavy-duty steel bumpers at the front and rear for improved resistance against off-road impacts, and it rides on massive 35-inch mud-terrain tires.
It retains the DSSV dampers and locking differentials from the standard ZR2, making it one of the most capable and resilient off-road mid-size trucks available today. As Chevrolet puts it: “The Colorado ZR2 Bison is the most off-road-capable midsize truck, offering unrivaled off-road performance without compromising ride quality, handling or safety.
It has been tested and proven by champion off-road racer Chad Hall in competition — as well as testing on the Rubicon Trail.” Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition — Base MSRP: “$59,245”, Ground Clearance: “12.2 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “AEV Steel Skid Plates, Multimatic DSSV Dampers, AEV Bumpers.”
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom Trail Boss
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom Trail Boss is a rugged full-size truck built for adventurers who need a capable off-roader with strong towing abilities, making it ideal for hauling gear during off-road expeditions.
This model comes straight from the factory with a 2-inch suspension lift and an off-road suspension system that includes Rancho monotube shocks. It also features Goodyear Wrangler Territory mud-terrain tires, which deliver excellent traction on dirt, gravel, and rocky trails.
Additional off-road features include underbody protection, an automatic locking rear differential for enhanced grip on uneven surfaces, and an Autotrac 4WD system that automatically distributes power between the wheels to maintain traction over varied terrain.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom Trail Boss — Base MSRP: “$51,800”, Ground Clearance: “11.1 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “2-Inch Lift, Autotrac 4WD, Rancho Monotube Shocks.”
As a Chevrolet dealership, it’s no surprise that we’re big fans of the Silverado 1500, but one of the things we appreciate most is the wide variety of trim levels and configurations it offers. If you’re searching for a dependable daily driver, the Silverado stands out as one of the top choices among Chevy trucks for sale near Pelham.
What makes the Silverado 1500 even more impressive, however, is its versatility—it can easily serve as a hardworking truck for the weekday grind or transform into an off-road powerhouse ready for weekend adventures. Today, we’re focusing specifically on off-road performance, particularly as showcased by the two Trail Boss trims available for the 2024 Silverado 1500.
These trims are off-road-ready versions of existing Silverado configurations, delivering both excellent interior features and impressive trail capability. Let’s dive into what makes them stand out and how they differ from each other.
To begin with, it’s important to clarify exactly what we mean when we talk about the 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 Trail Boss models. Chevrolet offers three distinct off-road-oriented trims for the Silverado 1500, which speaks volumes about how seriously the brand takes off-road performance.
The top-tier option is the ZR2, a formidable off-road machine that’s undeniably capable, though its higher price tag might place it out of reach for some buyers. For those who still want trail-ready features without stretching their budget too far, the Trail Boss trims offer an ideal alternative.
When discussing Trail Boss models, it’s essential to know that there are actually two distinct versions bearing this name—each one based on a different Silverado trim but both designed with off-road performance in mind.
Although we’ll explore their specific differences shortly, the key point is that they share several features and engineering elements that allow them to perform confidently off-road.
The standout characteristic of both Trail Boss models is the Z71 suspension package, which includes a two-inch factory lift to improve ground clearance and trail capability. This factory lift is arguably the signature component that defines the Trail Boss line and makes it so appealing to off-road enthusiasts.
Both Trail Boss models come exclusively with four-wheel drive (4WD), a necessary inclusion for any truck designed with off-road use in mind.
Each one includes Hill Descent Control, which helps maintain steady braking and speed while descending steep or uneven terrain—a crucial feature for navigating rugged trails.
They also feature a two-speed Autotrac transfer case that offers both 4WD Hi mode for slippery conditions like sand or snow and 4WD Lo mode for low-speed traction in more extreme off-road environments such as steep inclines or deep, loose terrain.
While snow may not be a major concern in the Pelham area, this capability is still valuable for those seeking out more remote trail experiences.
Additional off-road features include an automatic locking rear differential for improved traction, heavy-duty air filters and batteries for enhanced durability, and skid plates to safeguard the vehicle’s undercarriage from potential damage.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss is designed for off-roaders who want serious terrain-conquering capability without giving up luxury and comfort. It follows the rugged Trail Boss formula but adds more refinement to the package.
Like the Custom Trail Boss, the LT version comes equipped with a factory 2-inch lift and Rancho monotube shocks to handle uneven and challenging surfaces. It includes the same Goodyear mud-terrain tires and underbody skid plates for added protection, along with an automatic locking rear differential.
Additionally, the LT Trail Boss features off-road technologies such as hill descent control and the Autotrac 4WD system, helping drivers retain control on difficult trails. All the while, it delivers these features in a more upscale interior environment.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss — Base MSRP: “$58,000”, Ground Clearance: “11.1 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “2-Inch Lift, Rancho Monotube Shocks, Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires.”
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 stands as the most extreme off-roader in Chevrolet’s full-size truck lineup. It comes equipped with Multimatic DSSV dampers that deliver exceptional driving dynamics and comfort, even over rough terrain.
Like the Colorado ZR2, its mid-size counterpart, the Silverado ZR2 features selectable front and rear electronic locking differentials, allowing drivers to maintain complete control in demanding off-road situations.
The truck also boasts enhanced ground clearance, protective skid plates, and a specially tuned suspension system designed to handle the most intense off-road challenges. A reinforced chassis adds to the ZR2’s durability, providing extra peace of mind during extreme adventures.
Combined with a wide stance and an available 6.2L V8 engine, the ZR2 offers an imposing presence that sets it apart from most other full-size trucks.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 — Base MSRP: “$69,900”, Ground Clearance: “11.2 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “DSSV Dampers, Locking Differentials, Skid Plates.”
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Bison Edition
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Bison Edition is built for overlanding and serious off-road enthusiasts who demand maximum protection and capability when facing the harshest terrains.
As Chevy’s top-tier off-roader, this edition was developed in collaboration with AEV to deliver unmatched ruggedness. Like the Colorado ZR2 Bison, it features AEV-designed steel bumpers, high-clearance fender flares, rocker protection, and Boron steel skid plates that shield essential components such as the fuel tank, oil pan, and transfer case.
These enhancements ensure that the Bison Edition can take on extreme trails with confidence. It retains the advanced DSSV dampers and front and rear locking differentials found in the standard ZR2 but adds a heavy-duty off-road aesthetic that sets it apart.
Representing the pinnacle of Chevrolet’s off-road engineering, the Silverado ZR2 Bison is truly an incredible machine. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Bison Edition — Base MSRP: “$78,735”, Ground Clearance: “11.3 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “AEV Skid Plates, DSSV Dampers, Steel Bumpers.”
Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 with the Z71 Off-Road Package is designed for those who need heavy-duty power combined with off-road capability. This truck merges robust towing performance with specialized off-road gear, making it ideal for individuals who frequently travel to remote areas for work or adventure.
With the Z71 Off-Road Package, the Silverado 2500 includes essential features such as skid plates, Rancho off-road-tuned shocks, and all-terrain tires. It also comes with a two-speed transfer case that provides low-range gearing for navigating rocky or uneven terrain.
With a lineup of powerful engines and off-road enhancements, the Silverado 2500 Z71 is built to haul large loads through rugged environments with ease.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Z71 Off-Road Package — Base MSRP: “$49,425 (Double Cab WT)”, Ground Clearance: “10.2 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “Rancho Shocks, Skid Plates, All-Terrain Tires.”
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD represents a middle ground between the lighter-duty Silverado 1500 and the heavy-duty 3500HD. Properly equipped, it can tow over 22,000 pounds, making it suitable for pulling large trailers that the 1500 might struggle with. It also offers a smoother ride and a more affordable price compared to the 3500HD.
Josh Jacquot, a seasoned automotive journalist with over two decades of experience, highlights the Silverado 2500HD’s strengths, including its stout power, quick acceleration, and high-tech interior available on most trim levels. The cabin is spacious with plenty of storage, and an available camera system aids in towing.
However, the truck’s payload capacity doesn’t quite match best-in-class ratings, and its tall, broad hood can limit forward visibility. The 2025 model introduces a new Trail Boss off-road package on the LT and LTZ trims, continuing the fourth generation of Silverado HD trucks launched in 2020.
Cost-to-drive estimates for the 2025 Silverado 2500HD Work Truck, based on 15,000 miles annually with a typical 55% city and 45% highway split, place it competitively among large trucks, although it is not EPA tested.
The Trail Boss package is a noteworthy addition, offering an attractive option for LT and LTZ owners who want to venture off-road more often.
While not as extreme as the ZR2, the Trail Boss package includes increased ride height, off-road suspension components, underbody protection, and black 20-inch wheels fitted with special off-road tires.
It also features a blackout aesthetic, with dark-colored bumpers, trim, and badges, complemented by bright red recovery hooks, enhancing both capability and style.
In terms of competition, the Silverado 2500HD’s closest mechanical counterpart is the GMC Sierra 2500, while the Ford F-250 provides a strong alternative in towing and hauling capabilities.
For buyers intrigued by the Trail Boss package’s off-road focus, Ram’s heavy-duty offerings—the Rebel and Power Wagon—present different approaches to the heavy-duty off-road truck segment.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 is the brand’s latest addition to the heavy-duty off-road segment, engineered for demanding overlanders and professionals working in remote areas.
This truck perfectly combines the immense strength of the HD series with the advanced off-road capabilities of Chevrolet’s ZR2 lineup. It features high-performance Multimatic DSSV dampers, a rear electronic locking differential, and elevated ground clearance to tackle the harshest trails.
The Silverado 2500HD ZR2 is outfitted with Goodyear Wrangler Territory mud-terrain tires and upgraded underbody protection, including reinforced skid plates for enhanced durability.
Built to endure extreme off-road conditions while maintaining the ability to tow substantial loads, it is the go-to vehicle for serious adventurers who demand maximum capability.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 — Base MSRP: “$70,600”, Ground Clearance: “11.6 inches”, Key Off-Road Features: “DSSV Dampers, Skid Plates, Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT Tires.”
Chevrolet offers a versatile lineup of off-road trucks, each designed to excel in different overlanding and trail conditions. From the mid-size Colorado ZR2 Bison to the heavy-duty Silverado HD ZR2, these trucks come equipped with advanced off-road features like Multimatic DSSV dampers, locking differentials, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
Whether for light trail use or extreme overland adventures, Chevrolet’s trucks deliver the perfect blend of power, durability, and off-road performance, catering to a wide range of off-road enthusiasts and professionals alike.
When considering off-road specialists, a truck like the massive, heavy-duty 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 doesn’t usually come to mind first. The 2500 is traditionally designed for tough work—hauling heavy loads rather than camping deep in the wilderness or speeding across desert trails.
However, the Silverado 2500 ZR2 stands apart not just because of its size, nor solely due to its impressive Multimatic DSSV dampers. If you can find trails wide enough to accommodate this hefty truck, the ZR2 truly is the complete package.
At first glance, it’s hard to imagine this truck being described as “quick” or anything similar, considering it weighs 8,266 pounds. Yet, the ZR2’s 6.6-liter turbodiesel Duramax V-8 delivers an impressive performance, propelling the massive 4×4 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds and completing the quarter mile in 15.1 seconds at 91.8 mph.
This acceleration is thanks to the 975 lb-ft of torque the diesel V-8 produces at a low 1,600 rpm. While GM hasn’t released official details on how long this torque holds steady on the updated Duramax, it feels substantial for an extended period.
To achieve that strong launch, you need to brake-torque the engine for about four seconds to build boost, but even without doing this, the diesel engine hardly struggles with slower traffic or highway merges.
The Silverado 2500 ZR2 also pulls heavy loads efficiently. Although timed acceleration tests with loads aren’t typically done, it’s clear the truck performs well towing an 8,750-pound travel trailer.
The exhaust brake is a valuable addition for towing, smoothing out deceleration and supporting the powerful onboard brakes.
When empty, the 2500 ZR2 stops from 60 mph in 139 feet, which is respectable for a heavy-duty truck, though not extraordinary.
By comparison, a couple of 2023 Ford F-series Super Dutys, including the off-road-focused F-250 Tremor, required between 154 and 162 feet to stop from 60 mph. One drawback is the brake pedal feel, which doesn’t match the strong braking performance.
The pedal feels spongy and soft, encouraging you to press it all the way down, reminiscent of the old GM Hydroboost system that offers little feedback until the brakes nearly lock up.
This can make precise brake modulation tricky, not ideal when trying to maximize the off-road potential of the DSSV-equipped ZR2.
Despite the somewhat soft suspension, the Silverado 2500 ZR2 never feels unstable or dangerous when pushed, a testament to its off-road design. Interestingly, its suspension feels softer than what’s typical for a heavy-duty truck.
This is where the Multimatic dampers shine: their initial softness provides comfort, but they firm up during more intense suspension activity. This dual nature makes the ZR2 enjoyable on pavement and reasonably capable off-road at moderate speeds.
However, the 2500 ZR2 is not a Ford Raptor or Ram TRX. If you plan to drive it aggressively off-road, you’ll need to temper your expectations.
The truck will get you anywhere beyond pavement, but its large size and mass—both sprung and unsprung—make high-speed off-roading challenging. Push it too fast on dirt, and the physics take over, resulting in a rough ride with plenty of head toss, despite the sophisticated dampers.
Lower your speed to a more manageable pace, and the ZR2 excels. The torque of the 6.6-liter Duramax combined with the agility of the ZR2 suspension impressively conquers nearly any obstacle in front of its steering axle.
Just remember, this isn’t a Wrangler or Bronco—it’s a big, long truck that requires thoughtful path planning. Still, it will get you there smoothly, barely needing you to press the accelerator.
