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 the most powerful engine 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?
Silverado’s updates for 2016 include new front-end styling, an available remote locking tailgate, upgraded infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay capability, and wireless device charging on models with front bucket seats. WT, LS, and LT models get HID projector headlights, while LTZ and High Country models get LED headlights and taillights. Power-articulating assist steps are newly available on High Country models. Availability of the 8-speed automatic transmission, which was previously offered only with the 6.2-liter V8, is expanded to the 5.3-liter V8 models in LTZ or High Country trim.
FUEL ECONOMY
In a 2WD crew cab with the 5.3-liter V8, we averaged 18.6 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving; the 5.3’s EPA rating is 16 city/23 highway with rear-wheel drive and 16/22 with 4-wheel drive. The standard 4.3-liter V6 is rated at 18/24 with RWD and 17/22 with 4WD when equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission; fuel-economy numbers with the 8-speed automatic were not available at press time. The 6.2-liter V8 is rated at 15/21 with RWD or 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.
| BASE PRICE RANGE | $26,105 – $51,150 |
| 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 |
Other Best Buys in this Class
GMC Sierra 1500
Ram 1500
