The Chevrolet Silverado is a popular truck that has undergone multiple generations of updates, offering a range of engine options, improved design, and advanced technology features.
You may know that the Silverado is one of the best-selling Chevrolet trucks today, but you may not know that the truck shares its name with the trim level that was first introduced in 1975. The Chevrolet C/K pickup and two Suburban SUVs were offered in Silverado trim before the name was transferred to the new truck that will replace the old C/K.
While these facts may seem like nothing more than fun trivia, they can actually help you gain a more complete understanding of the Chevrolet Silverado's history, helping you understand how it evolved into the great truck it is today. Then, you'll have a better appreciation for the value your Silverado offers when you shop for Chevrolet trucks for sale.
The Chevy Silverado first launched in 1999 as a light-duty pickup truck, and the GMC Sierra is its mechanical twin. The C/K pickup truck the Silverado was originally intended to replace continued in production through 1999 and 2000, in light-duty and heavy-duty versions respectively.
The first-generation Silverado was known as the "classic" body style. It comes in three cab styles (two-door standard cab, extended cab and four-door crew cab) and three bed lengths (short, standard and long). However, the only options for the first model year were regular cab and three-door extended cab. Chevrolet revamped the Silverado several times during the first generation, including updating its exterior styling in 2003 and 2006.
Three engine choices were offered for the first year: Vortec 4300 V6, Vortec 4800 V8 and Vortec 5300 V8. Further options were added in later years: the larger Vortec 6000 V8 and the massive Vortec 8100 V8. All engine options are powerful enough for off-roading and towing. Chevrolet even launched a mild-hybrid version of the Silverado in 2004, making the legendary truck GM's first hybrid passenger car.
The first-generation Silverado was offered in several variants, including a high-performance SS model introduced in 2003 with 345 horsepower. In 2006, a special edition Intimidator SS paid tribute to Dale Earnhardt, but fewer than 1,000 were produced, making it an especially rare version of the Silverado.
The second-generation Chevrolet Silverado was introduced in 2007 with an all-new design and some new engines. The new Silverado has a new interior and exterior, a new frame and a new suspension. Since this generation was discontinued in 2013, these trucks have become a great way to drive a Silverado at an affordable price.
The new Silverado offers the same cabin configuration as the previous generation and is available in two- or four-wheel drive. It's powered by a fourth-generation small-block V8 engine, with LTZ models getting a new high-performance 6.2-liter V8. The entire lineup is stronger.
The second-generation Silverado also became more rugged. The truck features a new frame made from higher-strength steel, increasing body stiffness by 92 percent. New rear springs, hydraulic body mounts and other changes increase the truck's durability while also improving the ride. The new Silverado can withstand tough road conditions and carry heavy loads. In fact, the new front axle rating on the truck allows the four-wheel-drive version to handle snow plows as well as tow heavy-duty trailers.
The second-generation Silverado has received many accolades. It earned the highest safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and was named North American Truck of the Year and Motor Trend Truck of the Year for the first time in 2007.
The latest generation of the Chevrolet Silverado was introduced in 2014, and it featured several improvements while maintaining the same quality that made it such a success in its time. With the introduction of the third generation, the Silverado gets three new engine options: 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6, 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8, and 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8. They offer 285 horsepower, 355 horsepower and 420 horsepower respectively. Buyers can get all the power they need from a used truck equipped with these engines and enjoy greater efficiency.
Structural changes increase the strength of the new Silverado, including a hydroformed steel frame and a high-strength steel frame in the truck body. The steel used in the bed is roll-formed rather than stamped, which reduces weight and improves the truck's performance and fuel efficiency. Aluminum is also used in the hood, engine block and control arms to save weight.
The third-generation Silverado also adds a number of technology features. Examples include the MyLink infotainment system with touchscreen, Bluetooth technology for streaming music and hands-free calling, an optional Bose premium audio system, OnStar navigation, and USB ports for charging smartphones and tablets. These more modern additions make a used third-generation Silverado the perfect choice for drivers looking to buy the latest truck on a budget.
The new Silverado also introduces the first luxury model, the High Country Special Edition. This upgraded model includes special leather upholstery, subtle exterior styling changes, and special badging throughout. The 2015 Silverado comes with a 6.2-liter EcoTec3 engine and an eight-speed 8L90 transmission. The new transmission allows for faster shifts and acceleration, as well as improved fuel efficiency.
The latest Silverado hits the road in 2019, bringing modern looks, advanced technology and an available diesel engine. While most truck buyers will be sold after seeing the Silverado's massive towing and payload ratings, don't forget about the infotainment and driver-assist safety features. These models of used Silverados come with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, more standard technology than trucks from Ford or Ram, and give you smartphone connectivity on a budget.
The available Duramax engine seals the deal, making this generation Silverado the best yet. With a powerful 460 pound-feet of torque and best-in-class fuel efficiency, the used diesel Silverado is perfect for long-distance towing. The Silverado remains one of the most popular Chevy trucks, and we expect it will only become more popular as it continues to improve. Silverado has the flexibility to deliver the performance you need without sacrificing your style.