The styling of the Chevy Silverado has an edgy angularity that looks contemporary. The Silverado shares its bold design cues with the Avalanche, the TrailBlazer SUV, and the mid-size Colorado pickup. The Silverado looks more conteporary than the relatively conservative Suburban and Tahoe SUVs.
Silverado's headlights angle down at the top like the determined eyebrows of a Marine drill sergeant. A large band runs across the middle of the grille punctuated in the middle by a big, gold Chevy bow tie. All of this is smoothly integrated into the front end, along with spaces for fog lamps and recessed tow hooks. The flared engine hood and squared-off wheel openings continue the aggressive theme down the sides of the truck. In the rear are bulging taillamps that maintain the Chevrolet family look yet uniquely identify the Silverado.
Silverado's large door openings make getting in and out easier, and the door handles are big and easy to grab. Extended cabs come standard with four doors, though the rear doors open in the reverse direction and not as wide as we would like. Optional puddle lamps mounted beneath the big side mirrors light the ground along the sides of the truck, handy in the woods and in the city. Mirrors are also available with redundant turn signal indicators, warning drivers alongside or in your blind spot that you are moving over. Heavy-duty models have running lights on the roof, tailgate, and leading and trailing edges of their bulging rear fenders. They add visibility for improved safety. Plus they look neat.
Silverado's bed features built-in tie-down brackets near the four corners. Indentations stamped into the inner bed walls can hold boards to form bulkhead dividers or a second floor for two-tier loading. The Silverado's load floor is 31.6 inches above the ground on 2WD models, and 33.7 inches with 4WD. That's relatively low, and low is good when loading heavy cargo. Short-box beds are 78.7 inches long; long boxes are 97.6 inches long. Fleetside boxes are 64.8 inches wide (at the floor); Sportside boxes measure 49.1 inches wide. All Fleetside boxes measure 50 inches wide between the wheel housings.
A Pro-Tec composite box is available for Silverado 1500 Extended Cab short-box models. Pro-Tec is a nearly indestructible material that's lighter and stronger than steel. It never rusts and it resists dents. It can support a lot more weight than a steel tailgate.
Inside, the Silverado is roomy and comfortable. The seats are big and cushy, though we don't always find them comfortable for long trips. The standard front bench seat can seat three, giving Extended Cab and Crew Cab models capacity for six people. It's split 40/20/40, and the middle part folds down to become a center console/armrest. There's lots of head room and plenty of leg room, hip room, and shoulder room. The standard bench is available in cloth or vinyl.
Optional bucket seats are more comfortable and adjust every which way. We like both the premium cloth and the leather. The bucket seats are separated by a deep center console that holds lots of stuff. The top of the lid features a nice rubber-lined indention handy for small items, though it would be even better if the rubber was an insert that could be removed for cleaning. The top of the console is angled forward, which seems unfortunate because clipboards and other items placed there tend to slide off. A big coat hook makes picking up the dry cleaning easier.
The instrument panel features a large speedometer and tachometer. Smaller gauges to the right display oil pressure, water temperature, fuel quantity, and battery charge. HD models with the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package come with a transmission temperature gauge on the left. All use highly legible white-on-black graphics. Headlamps and taillamps turn on automatically when it gets dark. A Driver Information Center, located in the instrument panel cluster, provides various bits of information, including an available engine-hour meter.
Dual-zone climate controls are standard. The manually controlled system that comes on base models is a good, straightforward design. Manual sliders are used to adjust the temperature The available electronic climate controls are better, featuring two large knobs for driver and passenger. A large LED displays the mode and fan settings. It's a well-engineered system that's sophisticated yet easy to operate.
The stereo systems feature digital controls with large knobs for volume and tuning. It's a good setup, more attractive and more sophisticated than some earlier systems, but just as easy to use. XM Satellite Radio is a great addition for people who want minimal blab interrupting their music, or who like to listen to 24-hour news or sports channels like NPR, CNN or ESPN. Satellite radio also means you can drive across the U.S. without ever having to switch from your favorite stations.
The 2006 models are available with a new generation of OnStar (called Gen 6) designed for improved hands-free operation, thanks to more intuitive dialing and improved voice recognition. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada. Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Personal Calling that allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls.
The back seat in Extended Cab models offers more room and comfort than expected. We wouldn't want to ride across the state back there, but three adults can fit and be reasonably comfortable for a short trip. The rear-seat bottom folds up to provide space for cargo, but it's still in the way when trying to carry a lot of stuff, and the floor is not flat. The entire rear seat assembly can be removed with a wrench and lifted out through the door when cargo capacity is more important than passenger space.
Crew Cabs offer roomy rear seats and additional interior cargo space. The back seats in Crew Cab models are very comfortable, similar to the rear seats in a Suburban or Tahoe. The rear seats can be flipped down, like those in a Suburban, to provide a big, secure cargo area.
The Chevy Silverado remains one of the best-driving full-size pickups, even when measured against its newer competition. It feels tight and quiet, with little road noise or wind noise.
Those are benefits of its stiff frame, which minimizes noise and vibration from the running gear. The rigid chassis allows the suspension to soak up and manage bumps and ruts and tar strips. The cab is stiffened by a magnesium beam behind the instrument panel and a lateral steel beam between the magnesium beam and the right side of the dash. This additional stiffening is designed to eliminate squeaks and rattles, and we haven't heard any.
The Chevy Silverado rides more smoothly than the Dodge Ram. We drove a Silverado 1500 2WD LS Extended Cab that rode very smoothly. Its long, 143-inch wheelbase contributed to the ride (and enhanced high-speed stability).
The Silverado handles well on dry pavement, loose dirt, deep dirt, and off road. It tracks straight at speed on dry pavement and it's stable on wet pavement. It holds its line when the rear wheels spin under acceleration, even when coming out of a low-speed turn on wet pavement. Steering is responsive and offers the right amount of feedback; there is a dead spot in the center when cruising, however, which Chevrolet says is designed to minimize steering corrections on the highway. Rack-and-pinion steering is used on Silverado 1500 4x2s. Four-wheel-drive and heavy-duty models use recirculating-ball steering.
The optional Ride Control Suspension is designed to enhance control when pulling a trailer. Press the Ride Control button when the truck is empty and the system firms up the shock damping, which reduces bouncing somewhat, although at the expense of increased harshness. When towing, Ride Control helps reduce the tendency of the truck to pogo as the trailer goes over bumps. It can also be used for better suspension control when driving off-road.
Four different engines are available for Chevy's light-duty pickups, so it's helpful to study power ratings, payload ratings, tow ratings, fuel-economy, pricing, and other data to choose the best engine for your needs. People talk about horsepower, but torque ratings better reflect how the truck will perform.
The V6 model is best for light-duty work when price and fuel economy are paramount; it also meets Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle, or ULEV, standards. But the two most popular engines are small-block V8s. The 4.8-liter V8 (294 cubic inches), which GM calls the Vortec 4800, is popular in base models and delivers 295 pound-feet of torque. It offers plenty of power unless you're towing, hauling heavy loads, or driving at altitude, but it could definitely use more juice when trying to accelerate up hills.
The 5.3-liter Vortec 5300 V8 (327 cubic inches) generates 335 pound-feet of torque, enough grunt for all but the most demanding applications. It's the engine we prefer. It only rates 10 horsepower more than the 4800, but offers a lot more torque, over a broader range of speed. The 5.3-liter's fat torque curve is useful for light towing and hauling, but also makes the Silverado more fun to drive when commuting or out and about. Fuel economy is about the same.
All of these Vortec small-block V8s are based on the SB2 architecture introduced on the Corvette and extended to the Camaro and Firebird in 1999. Since 2003, they have featured Electronic Throttle Control for more precise, consistent throttle operation; new oxygen sensors offer improved reliability and reduced emissions during warm-up. All of Chevy's Vortec engines come with 100,000-mile platinum-tip spark plugs, sequential fuel injection, and 150,000-mile anti-freeze.
Larger engines are available for heavy-duty Silverados. The big Vortec 6000 6.0-liter V8, standard on 1500HD, 2500HD and 3500 models, delivers 360 pound-feet for pulling big, heavy trailers. An 8.1-liter V8 is available for heavy-duty models, as well as a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8, which now produces 310 horsepower and 605 pound-feet in automatic-transmission applications.
A five-speed manual gearbox is standard in the base truck, but most buyers opt for the excellent four-speed automatic. The automatic features a Tow/Haul mode that reduces the tendency of the transmission to hunt between third and fourth gears in hilly terrain; and when it does shift, it shifts quicker and harder. This strategy reduces heat buildup for improved reliability. We recommend the automatic unless you run a snow-plowing operation or have a specific need for a manual. With all the advances that have been made in automatics, most of the advantages of a manual are now more imagined than real, even when driving off-road.
The Silverado SS, based on the 1500 Series short-bed Extended Cab, delivers quicker acceleration via a 345-horsepower version of the Vortec 6000 with 380 pound-feet of torque. A 3.06 first gear, 0.70 top gear and 4.10 rear end emphasize rapid performance and relaxed highway cruising over towing capability (although the SS can still tow a respectable 8,100 pounds). The SS model's 20-inch wheels and Z60 performance suspension are designed to improve road holding and cornering capabilities.
A Hybrid model, available only in California, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Nevada and Florida, promises up to 10 percent better fuel economy with the same power and performance as the 5.3-liter V8. In fact, the Hybrid is powered by that same engine, developing the same 295 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. Sandwiched between the engine and the four-speed automatic transmission is a compact 14-kilowatt (19-horsepower) electric motor/generator. While the Silverado is moving under the V8 engine's power, the motor/generator is feeding electricity to a 42-volt battery pack. Even while braking, the motor/generator uses the truck's forward motion to charge the batteries, a process called regenerative braking. Then, instead of idling in traffic or at a stoplight, the Hybrid's V8 engine automatically shuts down, so it uses no fuel at all when the truck isn't actually moving. The instant the driver touches the throttle pedal again, the starter/generator starts to turn the crankshaft, re-starting the engine almost instantly. An auxiliary oil pump assures enough line pressure in the automatic transmission for it to function instantly as well. A separate electric pump guarantees hydraulic pressure to the Hybrid's power steering and Hydroboost brakes, so steering and braking both function normally with the engine switched off. A significant side benefit of the Hybrid power system is that it essentially turns the Silverado into a mobile power generator, with two 120-volt/20-amp auxiliary power outlets (APO) under the rear seat of the cab and two more in the pickup bed. That means you can leave your portable generator home and use the Silverado's entire bed space for the job you have to do. The Hybrid option ($1,500) is available with 2WD or 4WD, but on standard-bed Extended Cabs only.
In some states, a bi-fuel gasoline/compressed natural gas (CNG) system is available for the 6.0-liter V8.
Silverado's frame is the stiffest, lightest, and strongest truck frame General Motors has ever built. First introduced on the 1999 models, its front rails are hydroformed, a process that uses high-pressure hydraulics to shape large and complex components that used to be fabricated from smaller stampings. One big hydroformed part is far more rigid than a bunch of pieces welded together. Tubular crossmembers and roll-formed mid-rails increase rigidity even more. This stiff structure enhances handling and ride quality immensely, while improving crashworthiness. The front suspension comprises aluminum upper and lower control arms, with coil springs on two-wheel-drive 1500s. Torsion bars are used on all 4WD models and 2500HDs.
Last year Chevrolet switched back from disc to drum brakes for the rear wheels of most 1500 models. Drum brakes are an older technology, potentially more vulnerable to dirt, water, and fade; but they are also lighter and less expensive. ABS is still standard, however, as is Dynamic Rear Proportioning (similar to Electronic Brake force Distribution, or EBD), which improves stability under heavy braking, whether the truck is loaded or empty.
For best ride quality and lowest load height, we prefer 2WD models, which can be ordered with electronic traction control. But four-wheel drive can be quite useful at times, and occasionally it's absolutely necessary. Silverado's Autotrac 4WD system lets the driver press a button to shift between 2WD (for best fuel economy) and 4WD. Select 4WD High, and it functions as a traditional part-time system that delivers excellent traction off-road. Press the button for 4WD Low for particularly rugged terrain. Spinning wheels in the rain? Pressing the Auto4WD button cures that problem. Auto4WD works very well. Step on the gas in the wet and there's half a moment of wheelspin as power is transferred to the front wheels and the Silverado takes off. Auto4WD is the mode to be in when road conditions are loose and fluctuating: icy roads, spotty snow, gravel roads, even slick pavement. Auto4WD eliminates the binding of the front and rear wheels that can occur with traditional part-time 4WD in tight parking lot maneuvers, nice in the winter. When the mud or snow get deep, or when the going gets rugged, switch to 4WD High. When it gets steep or truly nasty, switch to 4WD Low.
For even greater off-road capability, the Z71 package adds 46-mm gas-charged shock absorbers, off-road jounce bumpers, specific anti-roll bars, a skid-plate package, and a high-capacity air cleaner. While cruising on the blacktop, Z71 decals for the pickup box remind mere 2WD pilots of your off-road adventure potential.
Silverado SS comes with an exclusive full-time, electronic all-wheel-drive (AWD) that uses a viscous-coupled transfer case.
Like all full-size pickups, the Silverado is available in a vast array of configurations: two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD); regular cabs, extended cabs, and crew cabs; short beds (6-1/2-foot) and long beds (8-foot). Three trim levels are available: base, LS, and LT, plus a sporty SS. Full-width Fleetside beds are standard, but retro Sportside beds are offered for selected models. Silverado is available in several load ranges, but this review focuses on the light-duty 1500 series, which offers payload ratings from 1,215 to 2,040 pounds. Silverado 1500 models are available with a 4.3-liter V6, a 4.8-liter V8, a 5.3-liter V8, or a 6.0-liter V8.
Silverado also offers the 1500HD, which represents a compromise between the light-duty 1500 series and the medium-to-heavy-duty (and correspondingly harder-riding) 2500HD and 3500 series. Avaialble only as a Crew Cab with a 6-foot, 6-inch bed (instead of the standard 1500 Crew Cab's 5-foot, 8-inch bed), the 1500HD hauls 3,073 pounds with 2WD, 2,766 pounds with 4WD, and tows 10,200 pounds. Power is provided by the big 6.0-liter V8 that's used in the 2500HD/3500.
Standard equipment on all Silverado models, even the most basic W/T (Work Truck), are air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, tilt steering, a chromed front bumper, painter rear step bumber, and 17-inch painted steel wheels.
Moving up to LS trim (starting at $19,725) adds cloth instead of vinyl upholstery, a CD player, and an expanded list of options. LS Crew Cabs ($24,615) come with the 4.8-liter V8 and automatic. Silverado LT (starting at $23,000) is more luxurious, with upgraded upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and power windows, locks and mirrors. Again the Crew Cab version ($28,165) comes with more, including an upgraded six-speaker stereo. The 5.3-liter V8 is standard on LT Crew Cabs. LT2 and LT3 option packages add yet more equipment, but both price and specific content depend on cab style, driveline, and other factors. We suggest you see a Chevy dealer to sort it all out.
The Z71 off-road package includes full LS trim, plus special off-road suspension, locking rear differential, P265/70R17 on/off-road tires, skid plates, high-capacity air cleaner, wheel flares, fog lamps, and deep-tinted glass.
Silverado SS ($32,930) is a performance model equipped with a high-output 345 horsepower Vortec 6000 6.0-liter engine designed for quick acceleration and relaxed cruising. SS gets a high-performance Z60 chassis package; 20-inch wheels and tires; full-time all-wheel drive; a lower, wider stance; and special exterior and interior trim.
A Hybrid option ($1,500) is available in several states. With its unique starter/generator combined with a 5.3-liter V8, the hybrid offers up to 10 percent improvement in fuel economy while delivering the same 295 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque as any other Silverado with the 5.3-liter engine.
Options include XM Satellite Radio ($325), which provides CD-quality broadcast of 100 digital channels coast to coast, and a Bose sound system. Crew Cab models offer a Panasonic DVD Passenger Entertainment System ($1,295) and rear-seat audio controls. Late in the model year, Extended Cabs and Crew Cabs will offer a power sunroof ($795). OnStar ($695) is also available, which puts a human being at your assistance at the press of a button any time of day. OnStar operators can unlock your doors remotely and the system automatically calls for assistance if the airbags deploy.
Safety features on most 1500 models include dual-level front air bags, which are designed to provide an appropriate amount of inflation based on the severity of the crash. A passenger-sensing system automatically deactivates the passenger-side front air bag under certain conditions to protect children. Active safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS) on all models. GM's Autotrac 4WD improves traction and stability of four-wheel-drive models on slippery roads.