Is GM Working on a Raptor-Rivaling Off-Road Pickup?

BOLD RIDE

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Posted on by George Kennedy

                                      

The world needs more trucks like the Ford Raptor. Thankfully, the Blue Oval is rolling out a followup to its original off-road pickup, based on the previous-generation F-150. But there is a very good chance that General Motors is building something that is sure to rival the Raptor.

 

On a recent media drive of the new Buick Cascada, a representative from General Motors who wishes to remain anonymous, suggested that “something” is in the works. Though, that “something” remains to be seen.

We we’re told that a vehicle is currently at a GM proving ground that is boasting serious off-road chops, that it would make any off-roader perk up. Other than that, we’re left in the dark regarding details.

 

So what is it? The full-size competitor to the F-150 is the Silverado 1500, but as proven with vehicles like the Ram Power Wagon, there are some vehicles just too big for the trail. A Silverado 1500, or especially a 2500 just seem too big to be off-road mavericks. From our perspective, the Colorado is a better fit for this role.

GM has acknowledged the 4×4 and off-road potential of the Colorado. For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet is offering the Z71 Trail Boss package, building on the Z71 Off-Road model but adding unique visual bits and more aggressive tires. We’re hoping for a vehicle more in the image of the Colorado ZR2 Concept(top and bottom images).

The ZR2, which debuted at the 2014 LA Auto Show, featured more aggressive approach and departure angles, as well as beefed up skid plates, and grippy Good Year Wrangler tires. It also featured electronically locking differentials front and rear, a winch built into the front bumper, and GM’s new turbo diesel inline-4 under the hood.

It is a long shot, and we don’t have a lot to go on, but if we were to speculate on what the best vehicle GM could offer for the trail– the ZR2 concept as a production vehicle makes almost too much sense not to build.