The Silverado was introduced in 1999 as a replacement for the light-duty C/K pickups, with new V8 engines. Since 2003, it got updated exterior styling, interior refinements, optional Quadrasteer, a hybrid and an AWD SS model.

Pros :
– Powerful engine choices.
– Infinite body styles.
– Spacious interior in most models.
– Optional Quadrasteer a life saver.
– Good brakes for such large trucks.

Cons :
– Poor fuel economy even with hybrid technology.
– Cheap interior fit and finish.
– Top models too expensive.
– Tight second row seat in extended cab.
– Aging design.

Review :
As General Motors’ best selling vehicle, the Chevrolet Silverado has an unequaled reputation for outstanding performance, dependability and capability. Silverado also is known for having one of the broadest model ranges in the entire industry, to meet every personal and professional need in the full-size pickup truck market.

Silverado’s extensive range of 1500 is expanded even further for 2005, with the introduction of a gas-electric hybrid version of the 1500 Series Extended Cab for the retail market. Hybrid models are powered by a standard Vortec 5300 V8 and Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission coupled with the segment’s first hybrid propulsion technology, to provide up to 10 percent better fuel economy; 120-volt electrical power with ground fault detection; and unique accessory powering capability.

In addition to the hybrid-powered Silverado, an even more potent 310 horsepower version of GM’s Vortec 5300 5.3L V8 is available for 2005 on 4WD Silverado 1500 Extended Cabs with a standard cargo box.

Other functional changes for 2005 include the availability of a power sunroof on all Extended Cab and Crew Cab models. Front-disc, rear-drum anti-lock brakes are now standard on all light duty models except those equipped with GM’s innovative Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system.

A new 3.23 rear axle ratio is standard on 2WD models, while a more powerful 145-amp alternator is standard on all models for 2005. (A 160-amp alternator comes with the optional Snow Plow prep package.)

New tire choices for 2005 include P245/70R17-108S all-season blackwall tires as standard on 2WD models, with P245/70R17-108S all-season white-outlined letter tires as an option. P265/70R17 all-season blackwall tires are now standard on 4WD Regular and Extended Cab models, while P265/70R17 all-season white outlined-letter tires are available.

Revised wheel combinations include six-lug painted 17 x 7-inch steel wheels standard on Work Truck Models, and six-lug chrome-styled steel 17 x 7.5-inch wheels on all models except 2WD Extended Cab and 2WD/4WD Crew Cab models.

Within the light duty lineup, Silverado can be ordered in an almost unlimited number of configurations to suit any requirement: Regular, Extended or Crew Cab body styles; standard 6.5-foot or extended 8-foot cargo boxes in either Fleetside or Sportside style; 1500 half-ton or 2500 three-quarter-ton models; and either 2WD or 4WD systems.

An impressive array of Vortec engines is offered: a 4300 4.3 L V6; 4800 4.8L V8; two models of the Vortec 5300 5.3L V8; and the powerful Vortec 6000 6.0L V8. Engine output ranges from 195 hp all the way up to 330 hp.

In addition to the new hybrid version, Silverado can be ordered in several reduced-emissions or alternative-fuel variations. All Silverados with the Vortec 4300 4.3L V6, and those sold in California with the Vortec 4800 4.8L or Vortec 5300 5.3L V8, have a robust catalytic converter system that meets Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards. Models equipped with the Vortec 6000 6.0L V8 come with a dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) or bi-fuel system that can run on CNG or gasoline.

Light-duty Silverado models with the Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 offer an option that enables owners to operate them on varying blends of ethanol and gasoline, up to a maximum of 85 percent ethanol.

The Silverado can be equipped to meet any personal requirement or professional demand when it comes to hauling or towing. Payload capacities range from 1,295 pounds all the way to 4,047 pounds for 2500 heavy duty models. Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings range from 6,100 pounds to 9,200 pounds on properly equipped heavy duty versions.

Already best in class in terms of fuel economy, the Silverados receive four major enhancements that lead to a nearly one-mile-per-gallon fuel economy improvement.

The 2005 model Silverados feature an all-electric cooling system, compared to fan and fan clutch on 2004 models. The all-electric cooling system consists of two 200-watt electric fan packages and an improved dissipation radiator. The new cooling system provides a number of advantages including a reduction in parasitic losses due to disengaged fan speed with a corresponding increase in combined city/highway fuel economy, and a significant improvement in idle A/C performance (driver/passenger comfort) as well as an ability to idle with A/C on for extended periods in very high ambient temperatures.
Other changes designed to improve fuel economy include improved sealing of the vehicles’ front end. For example, tow hook and fog light openings are now sealed when those items are not ordered on the vehicle. In addition, the center hole in the front air deflector has been sealed; an extension has been added to the front air deflector; the aerodynamics for the running boards have been improved and the center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) – which was previously roof-mounted – is now recessed into the liftgate glass for improved vehicle aerodynamics.

Introduced during the 2004 model year, Silverado 1500 Hybrid promises up to 10 percent improvement in fuel economy and returns all the performance and capability expected in a full-size pickup. The Vortec 5300 V8 engine delivers 295 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque – the same as its non-hybrid counterpart. Yet there’s something the Sierra Hybrid provides that standard models do not: it is essentially a mobile power-generating station, with four 120-volt/20-amp electrical auxiliary power outlets (APO). The power outlets are located under the rear seat of the cab and in the pickup bed. Customers can conveniently operate power equipment without taking up the bed space typical portable generators would use.
A key contributor to the Hybrid’s fuel efficiency is its ability to automatically stop and restart the engine under different operating circumstances. Instead of a conventional starter motor and alternator, Hybrid pickups use a compact 14-kw electric induction motor or starter generator integrated in a patented, space-efficient manner between the engine and transmission. The starter generator provides fast, quiet starting power and allows automatic engine stops/starts to conserve fuel. It also smooths out any driveline surges; generates electrical current to charge the batteries and run auxiliary power outlets; and provides coast-down regenerative braking, as an aid to fuel economy.

Silverados are equipped with GM’s Passenger Sensing System (PSS). PSS uses the latest sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it would not deploy in the event of a frontal collision. The Silverado also has dual-stage frontal air bags (not available on 1500 HD Crew Cab) for supplemental protection for front seat passengers.

GM’s OnStar safety and security system is standard on LT and available on LS light duty models. In the heavy duty range, OnStar is standard on Silverado LT Extended Cab and Crew Cab models.
Additional safety and security systems include electronic traction control on 2WD Silverados to enhance handling and response on models equipped with a V-8 engine, automatic transmission and locking rear differential. All models come standard with PASSLock II theft deterrent system, and a driver information center that monitors and reports on up to 34 vehicle system functions.

Air conditioning, chrome front bumpers, tinted glass, power steering with tilt-adjustable column, a full-size spare tire and heavy-duty battery also are standard on all Silverado models.

GM’s exclusive Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system – which offers low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability, handling and control ideal for pulling a trailer – is available on 1500 Extended Cab short-box and 2500 Crew Cab pickups. At low speeds, Quadrasteer enables the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels. That helps the vehicle make tighter turns such as when cornering or getting into a tight parking space. At higher speeds, the system reduces vehicle yaw, or rotational motion, for more control during lane changes and demanding conditions.

Impressive entertainment systems – from available Bose sound systems to a Panasonic DVD passenger entertainment system – add to Silverado’s creature comforts. These systems (except the base fleet radio) feature the next-generation Radio Data System, and can interface with services such as the optional XM Satellite Radio. On Crew Cab models, available rear-seat audio controls allow second-row passengers to enjoy a separate audio source from front-seat occupants.

The Chevrolet Silverado SS, based on a 1500 Series Extended Cab with a short bed, is a contemporary expression of Chevy power for those muscle car enthusiasts who want the added versatility of a muscle truck. A high-output version of GM’s Vortec 6000 V8 pumps out 345 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Bolted to a Hydra-Matic 4L85-E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission equipped with a 3.06 first gear and 0.70 final gear, this potent powertrain delivers both rapid acceleration and relaxed highway cruising. Keeping all this power connected to the pavement is a standard full-time, electronic all-wheel-drive (AWD) viscous-coupled transfer case for enhanced wet or dry pavement handling, along with an innovative Z60 high-performance chassis and tire package that includes Silverado’s largest ever 20-inch wheel and tire combination for exceptional road holding and cornering capabilities.

For those interested more in four-wheeling fun and capability, the Chevrolet Silverado Z71 Off-Road Package is available on half-ton 4WD models. The Z71 package includes 46-mm gas-charged shock absorbers, off-road jounce bumpers, specific stabilizer bars, a skid-plate package, a high-capacity air cleaner and distinctive Z71 decals for the pickup box. Silverado Z71 can be equipped with features such as cruise control, rear defogger, power door locks, remote keyless entry, rearview mirror, AM/FM stereo with CD and cassette player, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, fog lamps, color-keyed grille and deep-tinted glass.

Competitors :
Dodge Ram
Nissan Titan
Ford F-150