The Chevrolet Bison is a long-time favorite with the Expedition Portal and Overland Journal team, with Publisher and Chairman Scott Brady coining it “the ‘Hilux’ we always wanted, only better.” Further still, Joe Bacal, our resident Vehicle Dynamics Evaluator, concluded: “It is my job to pick this truck apart, but I am struggling. It hit all of the marks.” It was for these reasons and more that, in 2020, it was awarded our Mid-Size Truck of the Year and has only gone from strength to strength. In recent years, manufacturers have increasingly pandered to backcountry travel with rugged variants of existing models, but far fewer have built a vehicle aimed specifically for overlanding. In this regard, the Bison is something of an outlier, with GM openly stating it was their first dedicated “overland offering.” This is clear in the build spec with desirable features that include front and rear lockers, armor, Multimatic Dynamic Suspension, a 2-inch lift, and a plethora of tailored AEV (American Expedition Vehicle) products. It’s a masterclass in engineering and one of the few trucks that from the factory provides exceptional capability and performance on the trails without the need for further modifications. Today’s 2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison with 90,000 miles is, without doubt, the most impressive example we’ve showcased to date, which is perhaps unsurprising as it was designed and outfitted by the team at OK4WD. The New Jersey-based company was established back in 1979 and, over the last 45 years, has built a reputation for uncompromising quality and service. Subsequently, today is a unique opportunity to purchase a no-expense-spared expo build for a bargain $65,000 OBO. Sure, that’s no small sum of money, but it’s an unquestionable value for a professionally built overland vehicle and still $20,000 less than comparable used Tacomas we’ve featured.
From the Seller:
“My favorite thing about this truck is its combination of comfort, capability, and drivability. With factory-installed front and rear lockers, hot-stamped boron steel skid plates and bumpers, and Multimatic DSSV suspension, it has tackled all the terrain I’ve thrown at it with ease. With the minimal modifications made, this truck is ready for anything. The heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, premium sound system, and race-inspired suspension make it feel like a luxury car while driving down the road. The suspension handles the weight extremely well, and the factory brakes provide excellent stopping power even with the build-out. Sticking with a 33-inch tire has kept the fuel range at about 350-400 miles per tank (depending on driving style and terrain) and doesn’t overwork the drivetrain like a larger tire would have.
With the addition of the Canopy Camper, you have functional living quarters with ample food and water storage, lockable gear storage, and plenty of prep space for cooking. The fans and heater in the camper allow you to cool/warm the space for a great night’s sleep. The extra-height roof allows for bedding to stay in the sleeping area when not in use, along with a 3-inch mattress pad for a total 6-inch mattress. It’s a great little habitat with everything you need and nothing that you don’t. This truck truly provides a restful and enjoyable experience while on the road or trail. It’s easy to drive and even easier to camp in. Just bring your gear!”
2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison
The Bison is fitted with a 3.6-liter motor that delivers 308 horsepower, 275 pound-feet of torque, and returns 16/18 mpg (city/highway). The V6 provides a trophy truck-esque driving experience and propels the Chevy from 0 to 60 mph in under seven seconds. Exciting on-road performance is mated with class-leading all-terrain capability thanks to 4WD, low range, front and rear lockers, rock sliders, skid plates, a snorkel, Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve shocks, a 2-inch lift, and intelligent on-board systems such as hill descent control. Inside, these rugged credentials are balanced with a luxurious interior with driver comforts that include:
- Infotainment system with navigation (8-inch)
- Powered and heated leather seats
- Premium Bose sound system
- sPod Bantam
- Midland MXT500 GMRS radio and Ghost Antenna
- Cruise control
- Air-conditioning
- Power steering, windows, locks, and mirrors
- Rearview camera
- Keyless entry
- Heated steering wheel with controls
- Center console with cupholders
- Multiple USB charging points
- Wireless cell-phone charging
Distinguishing Features
- Bison Edition wheels with BFGoodrich KO2 tires
- Readylift 1.25-inch leveling kit, HD Old Man Emu leaf springs, Rago rear shock skids, and Peak Suspension tie-rod sleeves
- AEV snorkel, skid plates, and low tube center section
- ComeUp winch with synthetic line, wireless remote, and Factor 55 FlatLink shackle
- Alu-Cab canopy camper, shadow awning, and shower cube
- Freshwater (13 gallons)
- ARB twin air compressor
- Baja Designs lighting
- Renogy 50-amp-hour lithium battery, two 105-watt Sunflare solar panels, and Redarc Redvision and Manager 30 kit
- National Luna 90-liter fridge/freezer
- Sirocco II cabin fans
- Load bars on camper roof
- Goose Gear base plate, double drawer modules, utility modules, and lower bulkhead panel
- Dickinson P9000 propane heater/fireplace and Expedition Essentials propane tank mount
This 2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is listed for $65,000 OBO and is currently located in Stewartsville, New Jersey. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
Contact Information
Email: samw@ok4wd.com
Instagram: mr.samwheeler and ok4wd
Website: ok4wd.com
