from The Tampa Tribune
Chevy aims to broaden appeal with Silverado
2007 Chevrolet Silverado
Published: Feb 19, 2007
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I just climbed out of a spanking new Chevrolet Silverado and found many aspects of this truck pleasing. First and foremost, it has immense capabilities in hauling, towing and related work. There are two additional aspects to this truck. It doesn't feel like a truck and the ride and handling are precise, transferring comfort for the passengers and confidence to the driver.
On the economy side of the equation is GM's active fuel management, a system that shuts down four cylinders in the V-8 engine when economy is more important than power. This feature seamlessly switches from V-8 to V-4 power as the need arises. Power from a stop or while passing is strong because you have the full complement of Chevy's V-8 engine. But if you are cruising down the interstate, the computer switches off four cylinders, so you are cruising and saving fuel.
Let's also not forget the flex-fuel aspect here as well. GM has made a large number of its trucks capable of using ethanol (E85) as well as gasoline for fuel. E85 is 85 percent fuel made from corn or other organic material. Granted, you do not travel as far on a gallon of E85, but you are lessening our dependence on foreign oil reserves.
Chevrolet has made two different interior designs available in the new pickup. One is an updated version of the present truck dash. It is more upright and utilitarian in the manner with which it presents instruments and switches to the driver.
The more refined dash and instrument panel resemble the full-size sport utilities, which also have been redesigned. The top of the dashboard slopes low to lend a more expansive and open cockpit. It portrays a more contemporary and tidy appearance.
Ride and handling have been improved, a major goal for the engineers. The frame went through extensive re-engineering to boost strength and rigidity.
I give all manufacturers kudos for making electronic stability control standard equipment, as General Motors has here.
The bottom line for GM's new pickups is they are extensively refined for buyers who prefer a more car-like feel. However, these trucks are workhorses that take care of all the chores of full-size pickup owners.
Ron Moorhead, a nationally syndicated automotive columnist, can be reached at ronmoorhead@hotmail.com.
