Question for you Chevy guys

[redfishted]

What's the difference in a truck that's a Z 71 4X4 versus a truck that is just a 4X4

[Powertool1994]

Blistein shocks and used to be skid plates but I don't think the plates are added.

[louieagarcia]

The last Z71 I owned was a 1999. Then the difference was additional metal skid plates (front differential and transfer case), and slightly upgraded suspension...and a fancy sticker. Not sure what the differences are on the late model ones though.

[crawdaddy21]

Some come with G80 locker.

[New2bows]

Just bought a 2014 Z71. Traded in a 04 regular 4x4. 2014 has rancho shocks upgraded suspension. This is my second Z71 and the ride is much more comfortable in the Z71..

[Kurdawg]

Also the interior package is normally upgraded, 4x4 has same skid plates, but shocks are different. I have an 06 4x4 and an 08 z71.

[Eric Pence]

Just bought a 2014 2500HD GMC 4x4 Z71.They have the skid plates (as mentioned) and and what was listed on my sticker as a upgraded suspension package...

[HighCotton]

Over the years GM has changed their mind on what the Z71 package consists of. The Z71 package used to always indicate the vehicle was 4wd. In about 2004 they started offering the Z71 Tahoe/Burb in 2wd as well and did the same to the Silverado/Sierra Z71 in the 07-13 body style.

I'm assuming you are asking about the main difference between a Z71 and 4x4 pickup. The Z71 has underbody skid plates, locker, upgraded stiffer suspension, wheels, decals, fender flares (SUVs only) and generally painted (not chrome) bumpers. Basically the Z71 is designed for offroad and the 4x4 is just the regular truck with a transfer case. If you compare a GM 2wd truck to a GM Z71 2wd truck, you'll notice the Z71 sits the same height as a 4wd truck due to the suspension. I believe they've now split the package up into Z71 appearance and Z71 suspension.

When it comes to resale the Z71 is generally a more desirable vehicle as it's considered an upgrade from the base model SUVs/trucks.