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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  truck guys truck - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By lukeh - November 24 - 10:00 am

  Its great. it has the power i need, the look i want, the durability it should, and it works hard when i put it to the test. to put it simply i always have been a chevy man and as long as chevy keeps pumping out trucks like the silverado i always will be. my friends keep buying fords, and they wonder why im still only on my second chevy truck. to put it simply they are the best truck made. period.

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  Not a durable work truck., - 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Ken - November 17 - 6:03 pm

  While It has great mileage for a full size truck, there are few other aspects that I like about it. I didnt expect much from the v-6 but this is bad, I can deal without acceleration but it delivers poor torque while loaded or towing. I like a sparse interior, this one feels cheap. Seats are uncomfortable, I hate having the seatbelt in the seat,always seems to ride up to my neck and is not adjustable (it happens to people of different body types as me). Under dash, loose wires everywhere. Minor issues are starting to appear $30 here and $40 there, wont break the bank but annoying. Poor handling, spongy suspension, like a 1976 wagon. Least favorite vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  Happy in New Hampshire! - 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Mr jay - November 17 - 2:09 am

  As an update to the below, more happy than ever. 20k miles now and runs like a charm. Everything is solid, dependable and very comfortable. My son who is not a car guy at all (he is looking forward to driverless cars). Seems to like it well enough. When driving does not feel like 19 feet! Backup camera big help in parking lots. Have not had her off roading but effortless in nh winters, ski resorts, etc. love the full time AWD in winter and the true 4 WD. When needed.really happy all around Got a 2014 high country and very happy. While expensive it is extremely comfortable and easy to hop in and out. Fairly soft ride considering it is a truck with full off road capabilities. It about 10k miles and no issues whatsoever. Controls are big and solid, no rattles or highway noise and holds together in corners as well as you can expect from a truck. Pulls my boat and snowmobiles easily-not surprising for V8. I get 18 mpg no matter what type of driving. Makes me wonder if electronic mpg calculator is working- I never calculated it manually. People love riding in the back- as much room as a limo. Back up camera is outstanding which is good because this beast would be difficult to park otherwise. And parking sensors are helpful. Overall, very happy with her especially the room and ergonomics.

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  lead slead returns from the dead - 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By g hp - November 15 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed my many trips to the gas stations in my area as this thing is very thirtsy. Its heavy, hard to park due to 4 wheel steering that it dosent have but needs. It is how everever, fun to drive and it tow my trailer with little problems..since adding a blower to the motor adding 150 horse power. Maintence is straight forwrard and the dealer has been excellent on my normal service routien. the soound system is great and its a breese to drive down the highway with not too much cabin noise. I would rate this vehicle as an 8..due to the turning radius. As far as relialble....couldnt be happier!!!

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  lsdjal;kf - 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Josh Fredette - November 15 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle has been my dream for at least 10 years i used to own an old 1979 chevy truck that lasted a long time and it would still be going today if i hadnt junked it but this truck is my best truck i used to have i used to have a toyota and this truck is alot better than this and it will always be better rest in piece

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  The Best Ride on the Road - 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Ronald Holstein - November 14 - 11:06 am

  This is the first truck we have purchased in twenty years. The ride and comfort is incredible. The support the seats give my back allows me to drive without discomfort. We would like to add that prior to purchasing this vehicle we rented Ford, Chevy, Dodge Ram, 2 wheel and four wheel drives, before making a decision. Our choice is obvious as to load carrying, ride comfort, and gas mileage. Chevrolet is the only vehicle that offers OnStar. My suggestion to anyone that that is about to purchase a vehicle go to Enterprise Rentals they have 2 wheel and 4 wheel new trucks. Rent each one drive at least 600 miles then put a 1500 pound load on each vehicle & see for yourself before you buy.

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  Good Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By DKWinnie - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I owned an 04 ford F150, and it had a smoother, quieter ride and I liked the look better, but the Silverado is a significantly better made truck and just "feels" more durable and I am much happier with it. I also liked the look of the F150 interrior and seats but the controls and placement in the silverado is much better. All in all I am much happier in the Silverado than I was in the F150 though both have their strong and weak points.

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  Great Truck for the Price - 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Mark - November 9 - 5:46 pm

  Find that the Chevrolet extended cab work truck is an excellent value. Lots of room inside and good comfortable seating. The V6 is challenged to cruise in hilly areas without having to ramp into higher rpms, but does a good job on the highway. Most of these have exhaust vibration as mention by another reviewer. Transmission is smooth and brakes are responsive. I like the hood design for 2006 which is very rare. 21 mpg on the highway is a plus and access to the motor is easy.

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  Six-peat - 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By Frank Simonelli - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Our companys sixth Chevy Z71 Silverado Pick-up. Continuously a great truck: strong, reliable, roomy and beyond comfortable for every day. Whether on the construction site or out casual with the family... this truck is my favorite of the bunch.

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  Good truck but some things got to change - 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  By dustin - November 5 - 5:36 pm

  Had it for 2.5 years since new and I really do love my truck, it runs great and looks great and is comfortable and fun to drive. Plenty of power. Unfortunately there are just some things you dont think about when test driving. The select cloth seats collect lint like crazy, Why in the world would GM use this material. The basic speakers are not very good at all,rattle even at a low volume. Gas mileage is horrible when towing, pulls like a champ though. Had rear main seal replaced at 25k and rotors turned at 35k. side moldings starting to peel off at 45k, Overall I think its a great truck, and I use it like a truck.