The Chevrolet ZR2 nameplate covers three distinct truck lines: the Colorado ZR2 (midsize, 2017-present), the Silverado 1500 ZR2 (half-ton, 2022-present), and the Silverado HD ZR2 (heavy-duty, 2024-present).
Each variant is built with off-road hardware that reduces towing capacity relative to standard trim levels of the same platform.
This guide covers towing specifications by model year and configuration for all three ZR2 lines, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, tongue weight, and hitch requirements.
Staying within manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking components from premature wear and failure.
Quick Navigation
2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 (420 hp / 460 lb-ft); 3.0L Duramax I-6 Turbo Diesel (305 hp / 495 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Crew Cab only) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,800 lbs (3,992 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,800 lbs (3,992 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 880 lbs (399 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Advanced Trailering Package) |
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 8,800 lbs when equipped with the 6.2L V8 and factory tow package.
The available 3.0L Duramax diesel ZR2 configuration is rated at 8,700 lbs due to off-road hardware and different cooling dynamics.
Models without the tow package or equipped with the diesel produce lower rated trailer weights than standard Silverado trims.
2025 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.6L V8 Gasoline L8T (401 hp / 464 lb-ft); 6.6L V8 Duramax Turbo Diesel L5P (470 hp / 975 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,397 lbs (1,541 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 26,000 lbs (11,793 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,850 lbs (839 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Yes (standard) |
The 2025 Silverado HD ZR2 achieves a maximum conventional towing capacity of 18,500 lbs when configured with the 6.6L Duramax diesel.
The gasoline-powered HD ZR2 is rated at 16,000 lbs for conventional towing, while the fifth-wheel and gooseneck ratings reach 18,070 lbs with the gasoline engine.
Payload reaches 3,397 lbs on the standard HD ZR2 with the gasoline L8T, making it one of the higher-payload off-road trucks in its class.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 (420 hp / 460 lb-ft); 3.0L Duramax I-6 Turbo Diesel (305 hp / 495 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Crew Cab Short Bed only) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 890 lbs (404 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Advanced Trailering Package) |
The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 is rated at up to 8,900 lbs of conventional towing capacity with a standard ball hitch. The diesel-equipped ZR2 variant offers a reduced towing rating compared to non-ZR2 diesel Silverado trims because the ZR2 does not offer the Max Trailering Package (NHT). Payload is rated at 1,440 lbs regardless of engine selection.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.6L V8 Gasoline L8T (401 hp / 464 lb-ft); 6.6L V8 Duramax Turbo Diesel L5P (470 hp / 975 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) Gas / 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg) Diesel |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 18,070 lbs (8,196 kg) Gas / 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) Diesel |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,397 lbs (1,541 kg) Gas / 3,193 lbs (1,448 kg) Diesel |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 26,000 lbs (11,793 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) Gas / 1,850 lbs (839 kg) Diesel |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Yes (standard) |
The 2024 Silverado HD ZR2 marked the debut of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty off-road truck in the ZR2 lineup.
With the 6.6L Duramax turbodiesel, the HD ZR2 achieves a maximum conventional towing rating of 18,500 lbs, matching the top diesel ratings of the standard HD lineup.
The ZR2 Bison variant of the same year shares the same 18,500-lb diesel tow rating but carries slightly lower payload figures due to additional off-road equipment.
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 (420 hp / 460 lb-ft); 3.0L Duramax I-6 Turbo Diesel (305 hp / 495 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Crew Cab Short Bed only) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 890 lbs (404 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Advanced Trailering Package) |
The 2023 Silverado 1500 ZR2 carries the same towing and payload specifications as the 2024 model, using identical powertrain and drivetrain configurations.
The ZR2-specific off-road suspension, Multimatic DSSV dampers, and front and rear locking differentials contribute to the lower towing limit compared to Trail Boss or standard 4WD trims.
The truck is available exclusively as a Crew Cab with a short bed and 4WD.
2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L TurboMax I-4 (310 hp / 430 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 11,500 lbs (5,216 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Advanced Trailering Package, +$945) |
The 2025 Colorado ZR2 is rated at 6,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity, which is 1,700 lbs lower than the standard Colorado WT, LT, Trail Boss, and Z71 trims rated at 7,700 lbs. The reduced towing limit is a direct result of the ZR2’s off-road cooling configuration and heavier suspension components. The optional Advanced Trailering Package adds a trailer brake controller, in-vehicle trailering app, and automatic locking rear differential for $945.
2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L TurboMax I-4 (310 hp / 430 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 11,500 lbs (5,216 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Advanced Trailering Package) |
The 2024 Colorado ZR2 was offered in standard ZR2 and ZR2 Bison configurations. Both share the same 2.7L TurboMax four-cylinder engine and 6,000-lb towing limit. The 2024 model year also introduced the ZR2 Bison trim with AEV-sourced off-road upgrades, but towing specifications remained unchanged from the standard ZR2.
2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L TurboMax I-4 (310 hp / 430 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 11,500 lbs (5,216 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Colorado marked the debut of the second-generation Colorado platform with the new 2.7L TurboMax engine replacing the previous 3.6L V6 and 2.8L diesel options. The ZR2 trim maintained a 6,000-lb towing limit consistent with its off-road-focused suspension and cooling setup. This was the first model year for the third-generation Colorado ZR2 as part of the truck’s complete redesign.
2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 L87 (420 hp / 460 lb-ft); 3.0L Duramax I-6 Turbo Diesel LM2 (305 hp / 495 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Crew Cab Short Bed only) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 890 lbs (404 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Silverado 1500 ZR2 was the debut model year for the half-ton ZR2 nameplate. The 4WD Crew Cab Short Bed with the 6.2L V8 is rated at 8,900 lbs, confirmed in official Chevrolet towing charts where the ZR2 is specifically footnoted as a separate rating from Trail Boss and standard Crew Cab models. The ZR2 does not support the NHT Max Trailering Package, which limits its maximum trailer weight relative to other Silverado 1500 configurations.
2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.8L Duramax I-4 Turbo Diesel (186 hp / 369 lb-ft); 3.6L V6 (308 hp / 275 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Colorado ZR2 was part of the first-generation ZR2 platform, equipped with either the 2.8L diesel or 3.6L V6. The standard Colorado trims in 2022 were rated at up to 7,700 lbs, making the ZR2’s 6,000-lb limit a notable reduction linked to its off-road cooling and suspension hardware. This was the final model year of the first-generation Colorado ZR2 before the full platform redesign for 2023.
2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.8L Duramax I-4 Turbo Diesel (186 hp / 369 lb-ft); 3.6L V6 (308 hp / 275 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Colorado ZR2 retained the same 6,000-lb maximum towing capacity as prior model years on the first-generation platform. The 2.8L Duramax diesel option provided additional torque for sustained towing but did not change the rated towing limit for the ZR2 trim relative to the V6. The truck used AEV-sourced front bumper receiver mounts as an aftermarket addition for front recovery equipment, not as a rated towing hitch.
2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.8L Duramax I-4 Turbo Diesel (186 hp / 369 lb-ft); 3.6L V6 (308 hp / 275 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,100 lbs (499 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Colorado ZR2 towing capacity remained consistent with earlier model years of the first-generation platform. The GVWR for V6 Crew Cab models was rated at 6,000 lbs, shared across ZR2 and standard Crew Cab configurations. The standard rear 2-inch receiver hitch supported Class III towing equipment with a 600-lb tongue weight limit.
2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.8L Duramax I-4 Turbo Diesel (186 hp / 369 lb-ft); 3.6L V6 (308 hp / 275 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,254 lbs (569 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 10,500 lbs (4,763 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Colorado ZR2 is officially rated at a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. The truck came standard with front and rear locking differentials and an 8-speed automatic transmission, both of which are unchanged from other ZR2 model years. Payload capacity is rated at 1,254 lbs, slightly higher than later ZR2 model years due to platform differences.
2018 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.8L Duramax I-4 Turbo Diesel (186 hp / 369 lb-ft); 2.5L I-4 (200 hp / 191 lb-ft); 3.6L V6 (308 hp / 275 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,250 lbs (567 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 700 lbs (318 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Colorado ZR2 shared the platform-wide towing figure of up to 7,000 lbs, consistent with the broader Colorado lineup for that model year. This is one of the higher towing ratings recorded for any Colorado ZR2 model year, attributable to differences in platform and rating methodology before later ZR2 configurations introduced more specialized off-road calibrations. Three engine options were available, though the ZR2 was primarily positioned around the 2.8L diesel and 3.6L V6.
2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.8L Duramax I-4 Turbo Diesel (186 hp / 369 lb-ft); 2.5L I-4 (200 hp / 191 lb-ft); 3.6L V6 (308 hp / 275 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,250 lbs (567 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 700 lbs (318 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Colorado ZR2 was the debut year for the first-generation Colorado ZR2, introduced as a dedicated off-road midsize truck. Towing specifications mirrored the standard Colorado platform at 7,000 lbs maximum, with the GVWR set at 6,000 lbs. The ZR2 was only available in Crew Cab and Extended Cab body styles, with the 4WD drivetrain as standard equipment.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is required to reach and safely use the rated towing capacities of any ZR2 model. Missing or undersized equipment can reduce braking effectiveness, cause trailer sway, and void manufacturer towing warranties.
Tow Package
The Advanced Trailering Package on Colorado ZR2 models adds a trailer brake controller, 7-pin connector, in-vehicle trailering app, and automatic locking rear differential. The Silverado ZR2 does not offer the NHT Max Trailering Package, which limits its maximum trailer weight relative to other Silverado 1500 configurations and means owners cannot unlock higher towing ratings through dealer packages.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended for trailers exceeding 50 percent of the tow vehicle’s curb weight. It redistributes tongue weight across both axles, reducing front-end lift and improving steering and braking response. On the Colorado ZR2 with a 600-lb tongue weight limit, any trailer producing tongue weight near that figure benefits from weight distribution equipment.
Trailer Brake Controller
An integrated trailer brake controller synchronizes trailer brakes with the tow vehicle’s braking input. The Advanced Trailering Package includes this on Colorado ZR2 models. For Silverado ZR2 configurations towing near 8,800-8,900 lbs, a functioning trailer brake system is critical for stopping distances within safe limits.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Equipment | Normal Towing (under 50% GVWR) | Heavy Towing (near max trailer weight) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch type | Standard ball hitch | Weight-distributing hitch |
| Trailer brakes | Optional | Required |
| Transmission cooler | Standard cooling sufficient | Auxiliary cooler recommended |
| Tire load rating | Standard OEM tires | Verify load index at max GCWR |
| Trailer sway control | Optional | Strongly recommended |
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Chevrolet ZR2?
The maximum towing capacity depends on the specific ZR2 model. The Colorado ZR2 is rated at up to 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg), the Silverado 1500 ZR2 at up to 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg), and the Silverado HD ZR2 at up to 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg) with the 6.6L Duramax diesel.
How much can a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 tow with a tow package?
The Silverado 1500 ZR2 reaches its maximum towing capacity of 8,800-8,900 lbs with the optional Advanced Trailering Package. The ZR2 does not support the Max Trailering Package (NHT), so its rated limit is lower than that of identically engineered non-ZR2 Silverado trims.
Does 4WD affect Chevrolet ZR2 towing capacity?
All ZR2 variants are exclusively 4WD, so there is no two-wheel-drive comparison available within the ZR2 line. The 4WD drivetrain adds vehicle weight that contributes to the reduced towing ratings compared to 2WD models of the same platform, as towing capacity is a function of GCWR minus the loaded vehicle weight.
What trailer weight is safe for a Chevrolet Colorado ZR2?
The Colorado ZR2 is rated for a maximum trailer weight of 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) on 2020-2025 models. Staying at or below 80 percent of the maximum towing limit, approximately 4,800 lbs, provides a margin for payload, terrain variation, and braking distance.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Chevrolet ZR2?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required by manufacturer specification for most ZR2 towing scenarios, but it is recommended when tongue weight approaches the rated limit. On the Silverado HD ZR2, which supports up to 1,850 lbs of tongue weight, a weight-distributing hitch significantly improves front axle load distribution and trailer stability.
Why does the ZR2 tow less than other trims of the same truck?
The ZR2 trim uses specialized off-road hardware including Multimatic DSSV dampers, lifted suspension, and modified cooling configurations that reduce thermal headroom during sustained towing. These hardware differences lower the manufacturer-rated towing limit relative to standard, Trail Boss, and high-country trims using the same engine.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet ZR2 lineup spans towing capacities from 6,000 lbs on the Colorado ZR2 to 18,500 lbs on the Silverado HD ZR2 with the Duramax diesel. Engine selection, model year, and available tow package options all affect the final rated trailer weight for each configuration. The Silverado 1500 ZR2 occupies a middle ground at up to 8,900 lbs, a figure influenced by its exclusive 4WD Crew Cab Short Bed configuration and the absence of the NHT Max Trailering Package. Off-road-specific hardware across all ZR2 trims results in lower towing limits than identically powered standard trims, a trade-off that should be evaluated before selecting a ZR2 for regular towing use. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual and the door-jamb tire and loading label before towing any load.
