2016 Silverado 1500: New Face, More Performance

It has been less than two years since Chevrolet rolled out the current-generation Silverado 1500 pickup truck, yet constant improvements seem to keep coming, as is evident from the refreshed 2016 models we recently tested.

The newest iteration of GM's best-selling pickup now shares DNA with other GM performance cars in what Brian Izard, senior creative designer for the Silverado, calls "cross-pollination between the performance and the truck design studios specifically designed to bring a strong family resemblance between the vehicles."

However, the 2016 Silverado 1500 gets more than a new grille and face-lift; it also benefits from GM's wider use of the company's eight-speed automatic transmission, which is mated to the 5.3-liter V-8. Other new features improve the 2016 truck's performance, safety and utility. Here are the highlights:

Under the Hood

Although engine offerings have not changed for 2016, buyers of LTZ, LTZ/Z71 and High Country Silverados with the 5.3-liter V-8 might think something has changed because the 355-horsepower, midlevel V-8 definitely feels stronger thanks to Hydra-Matic 8L90 transmission previously only offered with the top-level 6.2-liter V-8.

The eight-speed automatic transmission has considerably lower (numerically higher) gear ratios through the first six gears than the 6L80 six-speed that will remain the standard trans in the lower trim levels. The lower close-ratio gear splits of the eight-speed give the uplevel 5.3-liter half-ton Silverados strong acceleration and a throttle response similar to that of the bigger V-8. We found the transmission shifts between 1st and 6th are closely spaced, quick, precise and velvety smooth.

We drove an LTZ crew-cab 4×4 with the close-ratio eight-speed; it gives the 5.3-liter V-8 the launch and towing muscle of the 6.2 without sacrificing fuel economy (EPA numbers have yet to be released). When you hit cruising speed, which comes far quicker than you might anticipate, the final shift into 8th (geared at 0.65:1) drops engine rpm well below that of the 5.3-liter V-8 with the six-speed. If you are performance-minded or a trailer tower, the 5.3-liter with this new transmission choice could be the powertrain combination you've been waiting for.

Articulating Side Steps

Silverado High Country trims also get retractable and articulating running boards. They are activated by a switch that pivots them out and rearward about a foot, allowing for easy access to the front of the bed, where a toolbox or other gear might sit. Tapping the switch a second time powers the board back to its stored position under the truck.

Likewise, when a door opens the steps swing out in normal fashion, providing easier access for shorter passengers. Tap the switch while the side steps are deployed and they shift toward the tailgate. Shut the door and they retract under the body.

Fresh Face, Power Hood

There is a difference in appearance between the 2014 and 2016 models, but it's one of attitude. The 2016 looks meaner. The previous model, a bit mild. The dramatically sculpted 20016 hood harkens back to the days of the big cowl-induction hoods on performance cars and trucks. The dual-scoop look is distinctive with high, sharp-edged breaks, and, the designers say, the strong center ridge has function beyond form — it helps add strength to the one-piece aluminum hood.

Smart, Bright Lights

If there's something familiar about the new Silverado's headlights, grille and daytime running lights, it's because a lot of the technology and design was pulled from the Cadillac CTS and the new Chevrolet Camaros. The narrow, wide headlights wrap around the front end, giving the illusion the 2016 Silverado is wider than the previous model. Although it's not, the curved running lights, which also serve as turn indicators, provide that effect.

Another lighting change of note: Chevrolet is the first truckmaker to offer LED fog lights, which are available on LT trim levels and above. The optics in the three LED lenses in each fog light set are designed to hit a certain part of the road ahead without the light bouncing off the fog and into the driver's eyes.

Uplevel 2016 Silverado 1500s also incorporate IntelliBeam high-beam assist technology that recognizes not only oncoming vehicles but automatically switches the truck's headlights to low beam; it also recognizes taillights and does the same when approaching a vehicle from the rear.

More in Touch

For those who can't be without their cellphones, all 2016 Silverados (1500, 2500 and 3500) will support integration with Chevrolet's available MyLink multimedia system via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both integrate selected phone features onto the MyLink display screen in a smart, simple manner.

This integration of phone and vehicle allows drivers to more easily make calls, send and receive messages, view maps and listen to music using the touch-screen or voice commands, which help drivers keep their eyes on the road.

Manufacturer images; Cars.com photos by Bruce Smith