The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado definitely isn't behind the curve with respect to its interior or appointments. In either the Silverado 1500 or the Silverado Hybrid, there's ample space in front, though the seats could be more comfortable and supportive for longer trips. Stadium-style rear seat on Crew Cabs has a 60/40-split design and can be folded up for more cargo space. The Silverado comes in everything from basic work-truck form, priced in the low twenties, up to fully leather-lined luxury-loaded Hybrid versions that approach $50k. Most Silverado audio systems now include USB connectivity, and for 2011, the Silverado's OnStar system has been updated to version 9.0, now including automatic crash response, crisis assist, and stolen vehicle slowdown, with a one-year subscription to the Safe and Sound plan.
The Chevy Silverado is designed to offer a smooth ride and confident handling while delivering superior capability and power. Silverado was last redesigned for 2007. The base engine is a 4.3-liter V6 (195 hp/260 lb-ft of torque) with a four-speed automatic, offered only on Regular Cabs and 2WD Extended Cab models with the standard bed. The 4.8-liter V8 (302 hp/305 lb-ft of torque) and four-speed automatic are standard on Crew Cab and 4WD Extended Cab models with the standard bed, and on many LT models.
The top engine is a 6.2-liter V8 (403 hp/417 lb-ft of torque) available on Extended Cab and Crew Cab models; it uses the six-speed automatic. (Silverado HD models are covered in a separate New Car Test Drive review.)
XFE versions feature aerodynamic upgrades in the form of a soft bed cover and extended front air dam, plus aluminum wheels (including the spare) and lower front suspension arms, locking rear differential, and low rolling resistance tires. A trailering package is standard so XFE models can tow up to 7,000 pounds.
EPA ratings are 21/22 mpg. Tow ratings are available to 6100 pounds, and maximum payload is in the 1,400-pound range.
For 2011, Silverado gets few changes. The 2011 Chevy Silverado is available in four trim levels: WT, LS, LT, and LTZ. Packages often upgrade amenities without upgrading engines or body styles.
Silverado WT ($20,850) is a basic work truck that comes with a driver information center, AM/FM/XM stereo, 40/20/40 split-bench, vinyl-covered front seat, dual glove boxes, two auxiliary power outlets, tire pressure monitoring system, OnStar and a four-speed automatic transmission. Silverado LT ($26,810 for Regular Cab, 2WD) adds a cloth-covered front seat with lockable storage under the seat, a CD player and MP3 compatibility, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and outside temperature displays, chrome front bumper and 17-inch styled steel wheels, and power folding and heated exterior mirrors. LT models can be upgraded with premium cloth front bucket seats with six-way power adjustment, dual-zone automatic temperature controls, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, fog lamps, aluminum wheels, chromed bumper, and a spare tire lock.
Silverado LTZ ($35,280 for Extended Cab, 2WD) adds heavy-duty trailering equipment, an automatic locking rear differential, body-colored bumpers, reclining and heated leather front seats with 12-way power, an in-dash six-CD changer with Bose speakers, 18-inch wheels, turn signal indicators in the exterior rearview mirrors, and heated windshield washers.
Extended Cab and Crew Cab models have back seats and windows in the side doors that power down. The Extended Cab has rear access doors hinged at the rear that open to 170 degrees to provide full access to the rear seating area. The Extended Cab also offers a short (5-foot, 8-inch) bed. The short bed (5-foot, 8-inch) is the only bed available on the Crew Cab.
Among them: A power sliding sunroof ($995), a power sliding rear window ($250), rear-seat entertainment system ($1,480), and AM/FM with navigation system ($2,250). Options on lesser models include the locking differential ($325) and various levels of towing packages.
Safety features on all Silverado models include dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring system, side-curtain airbags, and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover mitigation technology.
The front bumper incorporates rectangular fog lights.
Likewise, the rear quarter panels are punctuated by large faired wheel wells.
The Silverado benefits from a rear axle design featuring shock absorbers mounted outboard and more upright for better dynamic control than that of the previous-generation models.
Interior
The Silverado WT, LS and LT come with what Chevrolet calls the pure pickup interior while the LTZ features a more luxurious interior.
This interior features large switchgear controls and interior door handles designed to be easily manipulated even while wearing bulky gloves.
Extended Cab models feature stadium-style seating with an elevated view for those sitting in the second row. Both the Extended Cab and Crew Cab versions offer plenty of rear legroom.
Driving Impression
Suspension choice is key to the driving characteristics of the Chevy Silverado. The Silverado benefits from good brakes. Drivers who tow will appreciate the optional integrated brake controller like that used on the Silverado heavy-duty trucks. Towing capacities range as high as 10,700 pounds with the NHT package. Maximum tow ratings for other models are in the 8,000-8,900 pound range (Hybrid excepted).