Does the Silverado ZR2 4WD Pickup make a good outback touring vehicle  

Silverado ZR2 – The latest Silverado was released in 2023, and we have already given a comprehensive review from the launch

That article can be found HERE

So, for this article we are focusing on some of the more noticeable aspects of living with the ZR2 on a daily basis. We will also look at it from a slightly different aspect. How does it cope as a 4WD touring vehicle, compared to a more normal choice of large 4WD.

What makes a good 4WD touring vehicle – Silverado ZR2

Things I look for in a Touring 4WD are:

Dual range 4WD –

ZR2 comes with a 10 speed automatic transmission and enhanced 2 Speed Transfer Case with Push Button Controls, ‘Crawl Mode’ & Enhanced Traction Software (4-button control 2WD HI, 4WD Auto, 4WD HI, 4WD LO). It also has ZR2 off road mode.

Tyres –

Good off road tyres are needed to cope with the harsh outback terrain. Some of the more famous tracks, like the Oodnadatta or Birdsville track are nothing more than rock filled roads. The ZR2 has 18” Mud-Terrain Goodyear® Wrangler Territory® Blackwall Tyres.

Suspension –

Standard suspension just doesn’t cut it on a true outback touring vehicle. Many 4WD owners go for aftermarket suspension. The rear suspension is a solid axle configuration. The ZR2 comes standard with ZR2 Suspension Package with High Performance Lifted Suspension & Multimatic DSSVTM Dampers.

It soaks up corrugation and rocks with ease and lifts the vehicle for a better ground clearance

Towing capacity –

Most 4WDs are limited to 3500 kg and if you are close to that they do tend to struggle at times. The ZR2 has a 4200 kg rating with a 70 mm tow ball, and it tows with ease. The longer wheelbase, higher weight and solid rear axle make towing a breeze.

It also has the technology for towing that most 4WDs simply don’t have

Ground clearance, Approach and departure angles –

This is often a limiting factor for many 4WDs. The more suburban they become the more they struggle with this factor. Not to worry with the ZR2. It has up to 296 mm of ground clearance.

Standard measurements are – Approach 31.8 degrees, Rampover 23.4 degrees, Departure angle 23.3 degrees

Differential locks –

Lots of 4WDs now come with rear diff locks as standard. However, when you really get stuck or absolutely need to go through that rough patch, the ZR2 has both front and rear diff locks as standard.

Payload and Axle ratings –

Surprisingly many large 4WDs have a relatively ow payload. Add a few extras and gear and people and you are pushing the limit. ZR2 comes with a 717 kg payload, which is still a little light on. Axle ratings are 1725 kg front and back.

Power and Torque –

With a 6.2 L V8 petrol engine with 313 kW of power and 624 Nm of torque you are covered.

Room for all your gear –

This is where the ZR2 simply leaves most 4WDs behind. There is genuine room for 5 adults in comfort. The rear tub is huge compared to the space in a 4WD wagon. If you get a canopy, it becomes cavernous

Comfort –

ZR2 has exceptionally comfortable seating with all the little features like

• heated and ventilated front seats,
• electronically adjustable seats with lumbar support,
• heated outer rear seats,
• wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as
• wireless charging
• Dula zone climate controlled A/C
• Bose premium 7 speaker sound system and much more

Safety –

The ZR2 has all the necessary safety features you want. Just hasn’t gone through the ANCAP process.

Lighting –

Many 4WD owners will go for aftermarket driving lights. The ZR2 standard lighting has excellent LED auto headlights, DRLs and fog lights. I would still go for specific driving lights as well.

Styling –

Lets not pass this aspect by. Functionality is of prime importance. But if you can look cool while touring all the better. The ZR2 looks cool.

Silverado ZR2 Final Thoughts

For a big Pickup Truck its surprisingly nimble around a track.

With 4WD capability that matches the best of the 4WD wagons and Utes, it truly crosses boundaries.

In fact, there is a strong argument for saying that the ZR2 makes a better outback touring vehicle than many of the larger 4WD’s.

It has more interior room, will tow more and is just as capable off road.

It also comes with a host of specific 4WD features as standard.

 Silverado ZR2 – All the details

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges). Pricing is from Redbook as at date of article or from the manufacturer’s website.

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.