The long-awaited diesel Silverado ZR2 variant is finally here, along with an updated exhaust for the current V8.
Back in 2022, Chevrolet announced its most hardcore and off-road-ready Silverado trim named the ZR2. But while it was only available with a beefy gasoline V8, fans longed for a more torquey diesel variant. Hence for the refreshed 2024 model, they’ll now get exactly what they wanted — a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo diesel option for the Silverado 1500 ZR2.
Indeed, at 305 hp, the turbocharged 3.0-liter Duramax V6 does seem significantly less powerful than the 420-hp Ecotec3 V8. But what makes the diesel variant more attractive is the extra torque at 495 lb-ft (vs. 460 lb-ft on the gas V8) and better overall fuel economy. Moreover, the Duramax’s peak torque is achievable from as low as 1,250 rpm, making it much more suitable for off-roading.
That said, you can still get the ZR2 with the updated 6.2-liter V8, though, now featuring an active dual exhaust that can adjust the tone for different drive modes via opening and closing the valves. This meant the exhaust could be quieted down when you don’t want to disturb your neighbor or dialed up for louder screams on Sport mode.
In addition, there are also a few nifty changes to the rest of the Silverado’s lineup. For instance, the 2.7-liter inline-4 turbo unit available for the WT, Custom, LT, and RST trim is rebranded to “TurboMax,” retaining the same punchy output of 310 hp and 430 lb-ft. Moreover, there’s a rear-seat belt indicator, some new exterior colors like Lakeshore Blue and Slate Gray, and a new Black Appearance package available for the Custom trim and above.
Overall, the star of the news here is still the new diesel-powered Silverado ZR2. Surely this decision will make many truck enthusiasts happy, especially since the truck’s main rivals, like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, no longer offer a diesel variant. Hence we’re glad to see the Duramax making its way to Chevy’s most hardcore Silverado.
While official prices of the 2024 Chevy trucks haven’t been revealed yet, they’re expected to be announced later this year. However, it’s safe to assume the diesel ZR2 will cost slightly less than the original V8 model, just like the other trims.
So what do you think of a diesel-powered Silverado ZR2? Would you get it over the V8?
Gallery: 2024 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2
