Full-size pickup trucks are Detroit’s bread and butter. Last year Chevrolet played fairly conservatively with the Silverado’s first major redesign since the 2007 model. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 shares its platform with the GMC Sierra 1500, but there are significant styling differences to appeal to shoppers with different tastes. Competitors include the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150.
There are five trim levels: WT, LS, LT, LTZ and High Country. For truck buyers who need to tow 20,000 pounds or more there are 2500HD and 3500HD heavy-duty versions of the Silverado, which have been significantly updated for 2015.
New for 2015 Silverado 1500s with the 6.2-liter V-8 engine have an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Chevrolet MyLink multimedia system adds text messaging alerts and Siri Eyes Free mode, while 4G LTE internet connectivity is available through the OnStar communication system. A three-month/3-gigabyte data trial is included. Trailering side mirrors with backup lighting are available.
Below is a list of highlighted features and not an exhaustive list. Features are standard unless otherwise noted. Exterior Highlights
Regular-cab, double-cab and crew-cab body styles
Several box lengths available
Available heated side mirrors
Available power moonroof
Available trailer hitch receiver
Available remote start
Interior Highlights
Seats up to six people in certain configurations
Available leather upholstery
Available heated and cooled front seats
Air conditioning; available dual-zone automatic climate control
Available power-adjustable pedals
Available navigation system
Available heated steering wheel
Under the Hood
Base 285-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 engine
Available 355-hp, 5.3-liter V-8
Available 420-hp, 6.2-liter V-8
Six- or eight-speed automatic transmission
Rear- or four-wheel drive
Safety Features
Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system
Available lane departure warning
Available forward collision warning
Available front and rear parking sensors
Available backup camera
Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD The heavy-duty versions of the Silverado get new, stronger cargo boxes; new exterior styling that improves airflow over the engine for better performance in extreme conditions; and new interior styling. What’s Special
Maximum payload of 7,374 pounds
Maximum towing capacity of 19,600 pounds with a conventional trailer hitch
Maximum fifth-wheel towing capacity of 23,200 pounds
Choice of V-8 engines that run on gas, diesel or gas/compressed natural gas
