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There’s nothing like a truck when you need one. During a recent snowfall I threw my snowblower in back and headed out to clean a couple of driveways.

The test truck was a Texas Edition Chevrolet Silverado crew cab with four-wheel drive, the 5.3-liter V-8 and a short bed. For 2009, the V-8-powered crew cab models come with a six-speed automatic transmission that enhances fuel economy. The six-speed will be available in other models later in the year.

Chevy also offers a two-wheel-drive XFE model whose mileage is rated at 15 city and 21 highway.

The Texas Edition, a $3,070 option package, has heavy-duty towing equipment, 20-inch chrome wheels, a locking rear differential and a lockable tailgate.

Most Silverados are nicely appointed and as comfortable to drive as an SUV. The test truck had a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment center, power sunroof, Bose stereo, heated leather seats and a power sliding rear window.

Changes to Chevy’s truck for 2009 are relatively minor. A rearview camera can be ordered separately or with the navigation system, and its display is in the corner of the rearview mirror. Other options include Bluetooth phone connectivity and XM satellite radio with real-time traffic data. Basic OnStar service is free for one year.

All trucks with the V-8 get anti-lock brakes and GM’s StabiliTrak vehicle stability control system.

An integrated trailer brake controller, formerly available only on heavy-duty models, is now offered on extended cab and crew cab models. This brake controller is integrated into the anti-lock brake system for better control while towing.

The Silverado comes with two-wheel or four-wheel drive in regular, extended and crew-cab models with three box lengths: 5 feet 8 inches, 6 feet 6 inches, and 8 feet. There are four trim levels.

I drove a four-wheel-drive crew cab LT1 whose base price was $32,965.

Engine choices range from a 4.3-liter V-6 in the Work Truck to a 6.2-liter V-8. The 5.3-liter engine delivers 315, 320 or 325 horsepower, depending on the model. Two versions of the 5.3-liter and the 6.2-liter are capable of operating on E-85 ethanol. The 5.3-liter V-8 and the 6.0-liter V-8 use Chevy’s active fuel-management system to shut down four cylinders under moderate loads to save fuel.

In terms of comfort and space, the crew cab’s interior is similar to that of the Tahoe. The instrument panel was redesigned last year to give the cabin a more open feeling. Seams are few and the textures are appealing. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the back seat folds flat when you need extra load space. The rear doors open wide to accommodate loading items.

The test truck was equipped with roof-mounted side curtain airbags, power adjustable pedals and rear parking sensors.

The Silverado is offered with five suspension packages that range from one designed for comfort to one designed for off-road use. The test truck was equipped with the Z85 suspension designed to deliver good handling and towing capability. The ride was smooth without being overly soft. The truck’s stability is due in part to a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension and a wider track. The rear shock absorbers are angled up and out for better handling.

Price

The test truck’s base price was $34,965. Options included power seats, power locks, power sliding rear window, cargo tie-downs, side-curtain airbags, dual-zone climate control and the Texas Edition package. The sticker price was $38,250.

Warranty

Three years or 36,000 miles, with a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2009 Chevrolet Silverado LT1

Engine: 5.3-liter, 315-hp V-8

Transmission: Automatic

Four-wheel drive

Wheelbase: 143.5 inches

Curb weight: 5,371 lbs.

Base price: $32,965

As driven: $38,250

MPG rating: 14 city, 20 hwy.

To reach Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tom@tomstrongman.com.