IT’S A BEST BUY BECAUSE:
Silverado offers a full range of models that combine class-leading capability and surprising refinement with good fuel economy.
BUT…
Ride comfort and interior ergonomics, while good, can’t match those of the Ram 1500.
WORTH NOTING:
Full-time 4WD is available on all but the base WT (Work Truck) models, which offer part-time 4WD, and the optional 6.2-liter V8 is one of the most powerful engines offered in the class.
WHAT IS IT?
Chevy’s full-size pickup is the second-best-selling vehicle in the country behind the Ford F-150. It’s available in regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab body styles with a range of V6 and V8 engines and a choice of rear-wheel drive, part-time 4WD (only on base WT models), and full-time 4WD.
WHAT’S NEW?
The value-oriented Custom trim level is now available on crew-cab models, and the mild-hybrid eAssist package is now available nationwide; it was previously offered only in California.
FUEL ECONOMY
In a 2WD crew cab with the 5.3-liter V8, we averaged 18.6 mpg in 60-percent highway driving. When equipped with the 6-speed transmission, the 5.3’s EPA rating is 16 city/23 highway with rear-wheel drive and 16/22 with 4-wheel drive. Choosing the 5.3’s available 8-speed transmission bumps the EPA numbers to 16/22 with 2WD and 15/20 with 4WD. The eAssist mild-hybrid 5.3 V8 is rated at 18 city/24 highway with 2WD and 16/21 with 4WD. The standard 4.3-liter V6 is rated at 18/24 with RWD and 17/22 with 4WD. The 6.2-liter V8 is rated at 15/21 with RWD and 15/20 with 4WD. All engines can be run on regular-grade fuel, though Chevy recommends premium for the 6.2 for best performance.
VALUE IN CLASS
Chevrolet’s Silverado benefits from refined powertrains, lots of in-cab storage areas, and comfortable, quiet interiors. It also rides well and doesn’t feel as lumbering as some of its competitors, though it’s not quite up to the level of the Ram 1500 in this regard.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado Best Buy
BASE PRICE RANGE | $28,285 – $55,575 |
BODY STYLES | Regular, Extended, And Crew Cab |
AVAILABLE ENGINES | 285-HP, 4.3-Liter V6; 355-HP, 5.3-Liter V8; 420-HP 6.2-Liter V8 |
DRIVE WHEELS | Rear Or 4-Wheel Drive |
BUILT IN | USA |
EPA FUEL-ECONOMY RANGE | 15-24 MPG |