The light-duty 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 receives a few modest updates for the new model year, including appearance tweaks and new trim packages.
Exterior design changes include a split front grille for select 1500 models that’s similar in style to the updated grille for 2011-2012 Silverado 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty pickups. Also available is a chrome mesh grille matched with either a chrome surround on midlevel LS and LT models or a body-colored surround on the high-end LTZ. LS and LT models also feature a silver lower bumper that’s more aerodynamic on two-wheel-drive models without tow hooks, and new 20-inch chromed aluminum wheels.
In a move that perhaps mirrors Ram’s aggressive pricing strategy for the model – we won’t know for sure until we see the MSRP – Chevy is bringing back the Custom Sport Truck Package just in time for its 45th anniversary. It bundles the following features:
- Vortec 5.3-liter V-8 engine
- Six-speed automatic transmission
- Heavy-duty trailering package
- Automatic locking rear differential
- Heated power-adjustable, manual-folding outside mirrors with chrome caps
- 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
- Bodyside moldings with chrome accents
- Chrome door handles
- EZ-Lift locking tailgate
- Power driver's seat
- Steering-wheel controls
- Bluetooth phone connectivity
- Stereo with USB port
- Dual zone automatic climate control
- Fog lamps
The Custom Sport Truck Package is available nationally on Silverado 1500 extended cab models and in California, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida and Arizona, New Mexico, Arkansas, Kansas, Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi on Silverado 1500 crew-cab models.
Another new trim group is the White Diamond Edition. It’s available in LT or LTZ models and includes a unique White Diamond Tricoat exterior color, chrome mirror caps and door handles, and bodyside moldings with chrome accents on LT models. The LTZ version adds the Z60 high-performance suspension package, 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, touring tires and chromed tow hooks and exhaust tip package.
New standard features across the entire lineup include cruise control and a spare tire lock. For improved safety, all Silverado half-tons, except the Silverado 1500 Hybrid, now feature tailer-sway control and hill start assist.
Four new exterior colors have been added: Silver Ice Metallic, Mocha Steel Metallic, Carbon Flash Metallic and Graystone. Two new interior color combinations are available: Dark Titanium/Light Titanium and Dark Cashmere/Light Cashmere.
