Overview & Reviews

Like its rivals, today's Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is available with a wide variety of body styles, powertrains and trim levels. Thanks to this flexibility, the half-ton Silverado pickup is just as adept at serving as the weekday family car as it is at transporting home-improvement supplies or towing a boat on the weekends. And if you want something fancy, there are always loaded-up versions that come complete with a rumbling V8, flashy wheels, bucket seats and high-tech infotainment options.

Older versions of the Silverado 1500 pickup have been praised for their strong work ethic but criticized for having bland cabins of questionable quality. The current version, however, exhibits greatly improved fit and finish. Where there was once an abundance of hard panels and uneven gaps, the Silverado now features richer materials and precise fitments while maintaining its hard-working nature. Of course, there are other compelling choices in the full-size pickup truck market, but the half-ton Chevrolet Silverado is a solid pick no matter what it's used for.

Current Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The current Chevrolet Silverado 1500 debuted for the 2014 model year. It offers a number of improvements relative to its predecessor, such as upgraded interior trim, new technology features and engines that are both stronger and more fuel-efficient.

Under the hood, the base V6 engine has gone from zero to hero. Although it shares its 4.3-liter displacement with the previous-generation V6, that's all they have in common, as the current V6 makes 285 horsepower -- a 90-hp gain. Also, the new V6 is available across the lineup, whereas the old one was limited to basic work-truck models. The other engines have hit the gym as well: the 5.3-liter V8 now makes 355 hp, while the 6.2-liter V8 trots out 420 horses. All three engines use a six-speed automatic transmission that yields more frugal fuel economy, particularly from the overhauled V6.

As usual, the Silverado is available in a variety of body styles. There are three cab configurations (regular, extended, crew) and three bed lengths (5.75 feet, 6.5 feet, 8 feet). Available trim levels, depending on which combination you choose, include Work Truck, LT, LTZ, High Country and Z71. The Work Truck is better equipped than it used to be, providing full power accessories, USB connectivity and optional Bluetooth along with the expected vinyl upholstery. The LT steps up to a chrome grille, an "E-Z" lift/lower tailgate, alloy wheels and cloth upholstery. The premium LTZ throws in more chrome, a power sliding rear window, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera, heated power seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and an 8-inch touchscreen with MyLink smartphone integration.

The luxurious High Country trim gets niceties like Bose audio and fancier power seats, while the Z71 boasts an off-road-ready suspension and other heavy-duty components, plus some mean-looking styling tweaks. Silverado options include a rear-seat Blu-Ray entertainment system, a navigation system and multiple towing packages.

In reviews of the current Chevrolet Silverado 1500, we've remarked that its subtle styling changes conceal serious progress under the skin. Tops on that list is the capable new V6, which finally makes Chevy a viable six-cylinder player in this segment. But we've also noticed significant refinements in the Silverado's ride and handling, thanks in part to a more robust structure that's less prone to surface-induced shuddering. Not that this truck has gone soft; on the contrary, its towing capacity exceeds 11,000 pounds with the 5.3-liter V8 and hits a mind-boggling 12,000 pounds with the brawny 6.2.

Inside, the current Silverado is a whole new ballgame. Ingress and egress have been streamlined in the redesigned extended cab (double cab), which comes with crew-cab-style conventional doors in place of the old reverse-opening rear doors. Materials quality is appreciably higher across the board, so buyers of lower-trim models are no longer stuck with substandard plastics and the like, while nicer models have it better than ever. The attractive, easy-to-use 8-inch touchscreen with mobile-app functionality makes Chevy's workhorse as high-tech as some luxury sedans. Bottom line: This Silverado is the complete package.

Used Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Models
The previous-generation Silverado 1500 was produced for the 2007-'13 model years. It was available in three cab styles (regular, extended and crew) and trim levels ranging from no-frills "Work Truck" to plush LTZ. The most popular trims were the midlevel LS and LT, which provided many popular features as standard, including air-conditioning, full power accessories and a CD player. Significant options included a variety of towing packages, the Z71 Off-Road package and a navigation system.

Powertrain choices encompassed everything from a workaday 4.3-liter 195-hp V6 to a muscular 6.2-liter V8 with 403 hp, but most Chevy Silverados of this vintage were fitted with either a 295-hp 4.8-liter V8 or a 315-hp 5.3-liter V8. A four-speed automatic transmission with a tow and haul mode was standard on Silverado pickups with the base V6 and 4.8-liter V8. The 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8 received a six-speed automatic toward the end of this production run.

Calling cards of this Silverado included no-nonsense performance, a reasonably refined and quiet ride (even with the heavy-duty towing package) and a comfortable cabin that admittedly looks a little old compared to some contemporaries. We mentioned a few other downsides in reviews, including minor interior ergonomic issues, underwhelming performance from the base V6 and the hesitant responses of the four-speed automatic transmission while downshifting. The excellent six-speed automatic, however, is hard to fault with its smooth, on-point performance.

During its lifespan, the 2007-'13 Silverado remained largely the same, but keep in mind that the initial top-of-the-line engine was a 6.0-liter V8 rated at 367 hp; the 6.2-liter V8 didn't replace it until the 2009 model year. That same year, the six-speed automatic transmission was introduced as an option for the 5.3- and 6.2-liter V8s, and it became standard with those engines for 2010.

The previous Silverado 1500 was produced from 1999-'06. Although Chevrolet has produced a pickup truck since 1918, this generation marked the debut of "Silverado" as the big truck's formal name instead of a trim-level designation (which it had served as since the 1970s). Underneath the handsome new styling, a fresh family of V8s debuted, ranging in size from 4.8 to 6.0 liters. They offered output running from 255 hp with the smallest 4.8-liter to 345 hp from the high-output 6.0-liter V8 in the Silverado SS. A base V6 was also available, but as expected, most of these Chevy Silverados came fitted with one of the V8s. (Buyers looking at the heavy-duty series Silverado 2500HD and 3500 of this generation could also get a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 or an 8.1-liter gasoline V8.) A unique four-wheel-steering option (called QuadraSteer) came online about midway through this generation and cut the truck's turning circle down to 37.4 feet -- around 10 feet less than a typical full-size pickup. Unfortunately, QuadraSteer was discontinued for '06, as buyers were put off by the high cost of this option.

Consumers more interested in function than flash should be happy with a used half-ton Silverado from this era. The truck offered plenty of performance and work capacity, though it was hampered by a dated cabin design fraught with cheap materials and below-average fit and finish.

The previous generation of full-size Chevrolet pickups -- the last of the so-called "C/K" line -- ran from 1988-'98 and comprised three distinct versions: 1500 (half-ton), 2500 (3/4-ton) and 3500 (1-ton). Standard cab and extended cab body styles were offered, as was a crew cab, though the latter was actually from the previous 1981-'87 generation. Although six-cylinder and diesel V8s were offered, chances are strong that most Chevy trucks from these years will have either a 5.0- or 5.7-liter V8 mated to a four-speed automatic. In keeping with tradition, one could choose either rear-wheel drive (indicated by a "C", e.g. "C1500") or four-wheel drive (indicated by a "K"). Trim levels for these C/K trucks include the base Cheyenne, midlevel Scottsdale and top-line Silverado. Strengths include strong, durable powertrains, while weaknesses center on sketchy build quality and materials within the cabin.

User Reviews:

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  Love it - 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Old Coot - March 6 - 6:06 am

  Traded in a 2003 for the 2007 with the Z71 package. Cant believe how much improvement in ride and quietness. We have the 6.0 and are very happy with the performance and gas mileage which has been 14.5 overall. Have not made any trips with it so cant say about highway mileage. Almost as much fun to drive as our Corvette. Have to say it is a great truck.

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  Over 200000 and going strong - 1999 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Lee - March 4 - 11:46 pm

  I bought this truck used in 2000 with 20,000 miles with the 4.8l and currently have 211,000 miles. Mechanically I have had no problems except for fuel pump 1200 dollars to fix 145,000 miles. And sun shell in transmission breaking at 180,000 miles. Engine still running strong and still getting 18-19 mpg. Not fond of the shaky drive which I had since day one, dealer said there was no problem. Still waiting to do 2nd brake job, great brake life. Not fond of the cheapness of the interior. But I know I can easily get to 300,000 miles. Strong engine.

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  Happy with 2009 Silverado - 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Kevin - March 2 - 10:23 pm

  Only had the truck for 2 months, but am very pleased at this point. Tows like a dream with the 6 speed tranny. Averaging 18 mpg, but thats a mix of in town and some highway. I expect it to get better once broken in; only 2,000 on the truck at this point. Put a 70 series flowmaster muffler and duals on it. It sounds so good. Took advantage of the zero interest rate back durning Julys promotion. Overall am very pleased.

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  Great Garage Queen - 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By prsncat - February 27 - 6:30 pm

  Parked it when gas reached $4/gal. due to poor gas mileage. Love the way it drives now that it has an ARE shell (weight on the tail helps). Great for towing. Always reliable - no problems whatsoever. Cloth seat material is a PITA -- I put Wet Okole seat covers in the first month. It didnt hold its value -- I tried selling for $12.5K and didnt get a single call. I will resume driving it daily when the Honda Civic lease ends.

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  Great - 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By kevin - February 24 - 2:06 pm

  This truck is great I purchased for under 19000 and it is better then any ford or dodge on the market today. it is great for working, around town, and other things I can count on it in any condition. and I love the A+ custumer serviece that I recieved.

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  best truck ever - 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By luigi123 - February 24 - 12:01 pm

  i purchased this 4.8 v8 silverado with 59000 miles now it has 216000 miles and the only thing i have ever purchased for it has been the alternator and normal maintenance. this truck went through burnouts, racing on highway, offroading, and through snow without a single problem.. the best thing is that the motor and transmission still works perfect sounds even better then my fathers 2008 silverado. chevy rocks

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  My 2nd Silverado - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Lady Up North - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I traded out my 00 with 26k miles for a 02 because I wanted to upgrade not because of any troubles. The highway handling is great for a vehicle this large. Mileage is low but compared to the midsized SUVs its not any worse. This is a truck for those who really want a truck and not a luxury sedan disguised in trucks clothing. Chevy gets knocked for the "Fisher Price" look but I want to wash my truck out with a big sponge and a bucket of water if needed. Worrying about my interior finishes is not on my to-do list.

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  Love it but slightly sketchy - 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By KoNaGuRl - February 23 - 9:40 pm

  I bought this truck sight unseen except for pictures sent via email. I love it but im noticing some issues someonelse previously wrote about with the thud noise in the differential. Ive also noticed a delay in acceleration. No longer have dealerships here on island and ive also been told those are normal??? Anyone experienced these things and if so...normal????

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  Willows truck - 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Willow883 - February 20 - 2:00 am

  This truck rides so smooth! Hardly any road noise. Easy to handle. Accelerates nicely! (must watch speed!) Headlight highbeams--excellent! Window cranks a little hard however, hopefully after some use, it will get easier to crank. Doors a little hard to shut, must use some power to close them. We just bought the truck brand new recently, so, Im sure it just needs broke in a bit!

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  Smooth, strong and efficient - 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By floridamadman - February 15 - 7:50 am

  5.3 litre runs with anything on the highway, and on open road have gotten 20 mpg Im not a tire smoker, but at 35mph...hang on! There is no other p/u that cruises as effortlessly or efficiently at highway speeds as this with the 3.42 gears.