2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Pros: Expansive passenger and cargo room; well-designed technology features; broad range of models, body configurations, and powertrains to choose from

Cons: Prices rise quickly as options are added; ride comfort doesn’t quite match Ram 1500—it’s a bit jiggly over rough pavement

CG Says: For 2018, the Chevrolet Silverado’s eAssist hybrid system has wider availability. Sometimes called a “mild” hybrid, eAssist provides additional torque during acceleration via a motor/alternator/generator located on the gasoline engine itself. The eAssist system will not propel the vehicle on electric power alone, but it does provide automatic stop/start capability–and some extra power. Previously only LT models in California were available with eAssist. Now eAssist is available nationwide on both LT and LTZ models. All models now have a standard rearview camera and the tire-pressure monitor now has an audible tire-fill alert. The Silverado is a full size pickup with a choice of three engines: a 285-horsepower 4.3-liter V6, a 355-hp 5.3-liter V8, or a 420-hp 6.2-liter V8. The V6 and most 5.3-liter V8s have a 6-speed automatic transmission. In LTZ Z71 and High Country trims, the 5.3-liter gets an 8-speed automatic. The 5.3-liter with eAssist and 6.2-liter V8s also have the 8-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard and full-time 4-wheel drive is available. Available features include forward collision alert, low-speed emergency automatic braking, lane-keep assist, hill-descent control, locking rear differential, rear-seat entertainment system, and heated steering wheel. The Silverado benefits from refined, efficient-for-the-class powertrains; lots of in-cab storage areas; and comfortable, quiet crew-cab interiors. It rides well and we like that it doesn’t feel as lumbering as some of its competitors do on the road. Overall, it’s a really nice truck that does most everything pretty well. Silverado lags the Ram 1500 in handling and ride quality (as do all other full-size pickups), but it’s still a Best Buy in this class.