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Battle of the titans: gmc all terrain vs chevy z71 – which off-road beast reigns supreme?

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • The All Terrain boasts a 2-inch suspension lift, while the Z71 comes with a 1.
  • This difference in height gives the All Terrain a slight advantage in ground clearance, allowing it to navigate rougher terrain more easily.
  • If you’re looking for a pickup truck with exceptional off-road capabilities, a higher suspension lift, and an advanced 4WD system, the All Terrain is the ideal choice.

When it comes to choosing a pickup truck that’s ready to tackle any terrain, two names stand out: the GMC All Terrain and the Z71. Both models offer impressive off-road capabilities, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the details of the GMC All Terrain vs. Z71 to help you make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for your adventure-filled lifestyle.

Off-Road Prowess

Suspension and Ground Clearance:

Both the All Terrain and Z71 feature enhanced suspension systems designed for off-road adventures. The All Terrain boasts a 2-inch suspension lift, while the Z71 comes with a 1.5-inch lift. This difference in height gives the All Terrain a slight advantage in ground clearance, allowing it to navigate rougher terrain more easily.

Four-Wheel Drive System:

Both models offer four-wheel drive (4WD) as standard equipment, but the All Terrain comes with a more advanced system. Its AutoTrac 4WD system automatically engages the front wheels when needed, while the Z71’s 4WD system requires manual activation. This makes the All Terrain more convenient for tackling unexpected off-road challenges.

Engine and Performance

Engine Options:

The GMC All Terrain and Z71 offer a range of engine options, including V6 and V8 engines. The All Terrain has a 5.3L V8 as its standard engine, while the Z71 comes with a 5.3L V8 or an available 6.2L V8. The larger engine in the Z71 provides more power and torque for towing and hauling.

Transmission:

Both models come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Z71 offers an optional 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smoother shifts and improved fuel economy.

Exterior and Styling

Exterior Design:

The GMC All Terrain and Z71 have distinct exterior designs that reflect their off-road capabilities. The All Terrain features a bolder front grille, skid plates, and black accents. The Z71 also has a rugged exterior, with a blacked-out grille, off-road tires, and a spray-on bedliner.

Lighting:

Both models come with LED headlights as standard equipment. The All Terrain also features LED fog lights and a light bar, which provide additional illumination for nighttime adventures.

Interior and Amenities

Comfort and Convenience:

The GMC All Terrain and Z71 offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The All Terrain has leather-trimmed seats and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Z71 also has leather-trimmed seats, but it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Technology and Safety:

Both models come with a range of advanced technology and safety features. The All Terrain has a Bose premium audio system and a Teen Driver system. The Z71 offers a navigation system and a rearview camera.

Final Note: The Ultimate Off-Road Choice

Choosing between the GMC All Terrain and Z71 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a pickup truck with exceptional off-road capabilities, a higher suspension lift, and an advanced 4WD system, the All Terrain is the ideal choice. However, if you prioritize power and towing capacity, the Z71 with its larger engine and optional 8-speed transmission is a better fit.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Which model has a better fuel economy?

The Z71 with its optional 8-speed transmission offers slightly better fuel economy than the All Terrain.

2. Does the Z71 come with a locking differential?

Yes, the Z71 offers an optional locking differential for improved traction on slippery surfaces.

3. What is the towing capacity of the All Terrain and Z71?

The towing capacity of the All Terrain is 9,600 pounds, while the Z71 with the 6.2L V8 engine can tow up to 12,900 pounds.

4. Does the All Terrain have a sunroof?

Yes, the All Terrain offers an optional sunroof for enhanced ventilation and natural light.

5. Which model has a higher payload capacity?

The Z71 has a slightly higher payload capacity than the All Terrain, with a maximum of 2,250 pounds.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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