Is the ZR2 higher than the trail boss?
Yes. In terms of ground clearance—the distance from the road to the lowest underside point—the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 typically sits higher than the Silverado 1500 Trail Boss. Silverado ZR2 variants also tend to have a higher stance than the Trail Boss. The following details explain how the numbers stack up and what they mean for real-world use.
Ground clearance: ZR2 versus Trail Boss
How the official figures translate to real-world height
Below are typical ground clearance measurements for the main off-road trims. Exact numbers can vary by model year, tire size, and optional suspension packages.
- Colorado ZR2: roughly 11.0 to 11.3 inches (about 28 to 28.6 cm) of ground clearance depending on year and tire choice.
- Silverado 1500 Trail Boss: roughly 9.8 to 9.9 inches (about 25 cm) of ground clearance, with factory lift and tire setups affecting the figure.
- Silverado ZR2: roughly 11.0 to 11.3 inches (about 28 to 28.6 cm) of ground clearance, tuned for off-road capability.
Conclusion: Based on typical factory specifications, ZR2 variants generally sit higher than the Trail Boss, giving them an advantage in approach/departure angles and rough-terrain capability. Individual configurations can shift these numbers slightly.
Other factors that influence overall height and capability
Height and off-road performance aren’t determined by ground clearance alone. Suspension tuning, tire sizing, and overall geometry also play critical roles in how tall a truck actually sits and how it performs on rough terrain.
- Suspension setup: ZR2 models use more aggressive suspension tuning to maximize travel and control on challenging terrain.
- Tire size and wheel packages: Larger tires or different wheels can affect both height and ground contact characteristics.
- Vehicle weight and payload: Heavier configurations can slightly alter the effective height under load and impact handling.
In practice, if height and off-road capability are your priorities, ZR2 variants tend to be the taller option compared with the Trail Boss. The exact numbers depend on the specific model year and equipment you choose.
Summary
The ZR2 family—whether Colorado ZR2 or Silverado ZR2—generally sits higher than the Silverado Trail Boss in terms of ground clearance. This translates to better off-road angles and potential capability, though the precise height depends on year, trim, and tire/suspension choices. Always check the exact specifications for the exact model and year you’re considering.
