Unleashing the Power of the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 with LT4 V8 Swap
Any time we hear about a midsize truck making over 700HP—which is exceptionally rare—we ensure to gather all relevant information and keep you informed. In recent news, the spotlight shines on a Chevy Colorado ZR2 equipped with a supercharged LT4 V8 swap, prompting us to delve deeper into this impressive modification.
The Standard Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is already a formidable contender in the midsize truck segment, boasting impressive features straight from the factory. Equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.6L LGZ V6 engine, it generates 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, proving itself quite capable for a midsize pickup. Nevertheless, one adventurous owner opted to elevate their ZR2 Colorado’s performance even further with a powerful LT4 V8 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Installation Insights from Lingenfelter Performance Engineering
The supercharged 6.2L LT4 V8 engine is renowned for its performance, often featured in the Corvette Z06, Camaro ZL1, and Cadillac CTS-V. Factory ratings are already impressive at approximately 650 horsepower and torque. Following the installation, this Colorado ZR2 underwent modifications from Lingenfelter to achieve a remarkable upgrade to 720 horsepower, which includes a new supercharger pulley, air filter, spark plugs, and a custom tune. Additionally, the vehicle received precise calibration for its eight-speed automatic transmission.
Expert Insights
To gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable vehicle, we consulted Mark Rapson, VP at Lingenfelter. He stated, “The truck, which was originally swapped by Current Performance, is very cool. It may be considered a bit much for the average person, but when it came to adding our 720HP Package and custom calibration, we anticipated it would draw attention, showcasing our expanding involvement in the midsize truck market.”
Additionally, Rapson emphasized the ongoing research and development efforts dedicated to the Chevy truck platform, particularly with the new supercharger package designed for the V6 version. This modification allows users to enjoy V8-like power without needing a full engine swap, making it beneficial for off-roading, towing, or as a daily driver, all while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency.
Performance Results
Despite the extensive modifications, the installation retains a remarkably factory-like appearance, which is commendable for such a significant engine swap. Testing has shown that this high-performance Colorado ZR2 produces impressive results, delivering 534 horsepower and 526 pound-feet of torque at the rear wheels.
Conclusion: A Blend of Power and Capability
This spectacular transformation may be beyond the reach of many, yet it’s a testament to what passionate engineers and automotive enthusiasts can achieve. For those interested in enhancements that don’t require a complete overhaul, Lingenfelter offers the ’17-’20 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon 3.6L HFV6 TVS Supercharger 450 HP Package, providing a noticeable boost in performance without the extensive modifications undertaken in this case.
