The Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison is going to crank the truck’s off-road game up to the next level and spy photographers have caught the new model out testing.  

It was Off-Road.com that initially uncovered the trademark filing for the name “ZR2 Bison,” followed by obtaining confirmation from a Chevy dealer that a ZR2 Bison is, in fact, coming to market. With these spy photos, we have the visual proof that a new version of the ZR2 is coming, and it looks formidable.

READ MORE: Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Headed for Production With a Focus on Overlanding

The most obvious upgrade here is a snorkel intake system mounted to the A-pillar but looking closely reveals more details. The front end has been redesigned to give the truck a unique look and also to incorporate that redesigned bumper, which appears to be ready to house an integrated winch. A better approach angle also appears to be a benefit of the new bumper.

Full underbody protection is expected to be part of the package and at least front skid plate can be seen, while the ZR2’s optional rock rails are fitted here as well.

Larger wheel arches are seen under the graphic wrap, a necessary addition when you consider the truck is also getting a new long-travel suspension setup. This setup will offer the ZR2 more suspension travel, better articulation, and greater durability.

The test truck appears to be wearing Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires, though a set of 35-inch BFGoodrich KM2 Mud-Terrain tires were fitted to the original SEMA concept that served as the origin for this truck. Upgraded rubber will probably be available through a Chevy dealer of American Expedition Vehicles (AEV).

The SEMA concept was a collaboration between Chevy and AEV just like the production truck is expected to be. After all, AEV’s logo is a Bison.

We expect two routes will be available to customers. The first is buying the ZR2 Bison straight from a dealer, with all of the upgrades you see on the truck in these photos. Option two will be buying the truck through AEV, much like Jeep buyers can do. In that instance, AEV will take the ZR2 Bison and add even more off-road and overland gear to it before delivering the truck to your front door. Upgrades from AEV include things like onboard air compressors, bed racks, rootop tents and more.

When asked about the new ZR2 Bison, a Chevy spokesperson said, “We’ve had a great experience collaborating with AEV on the concept vehicle we showed at last year’s SEMA show. Customer reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Beyond that, we have nothing specific to announce at present.”

A production version of this truck probably isn’t far off, so expect more news on the ZR2 Bison soon.