The iconic nature of the Chevy Silverado speaks to America, and to the symbiotic relationship between a job that needs doing and getting it done with the right tool in-hand. For over a century, trucks have served as an enduring cornerstone of progress, getting us from Point A to Point B in every way that matters. And as we edge further into the fifth decade of the Silverado, we explore how such a purposeful vehicle can evolve to become something ‘more’. Why? Because today’s trucks are more than just utilitarian tools, designed to complete tasks-at-hand. Granted, such characteristics are just as important now as ever, but many trucks now double as family haulers, daily-driver commuters, and even mobile offices. In this sense, the Silverado represents Chevy’s acknowledgment of the many roles their trucks play, to an equally diverse range of customers. And by considering a 2018 Chevy Silverado in Cincinnati, OH drivers are clear in acknowledging Chevy’s success in doing so.
From the accommodating 1500 (priced to start around $28,285 MSRP) to the all-inclusive 3500HD (starting at $35,260 MSRP) the Silverado offers a wealth of options tailored to the various needs of today’s truck owners. Cab, bed and powertrain configurations abound, as do trim levels, enhancement options, Special Edition packages and Chevy’s signature inclusion of available technologies.
Reigning as General Motors’ best-selling vehicle, the Silverado has been named ‘Most Dependable Large Heavy-Duty Pickup’ by J.D. Powers and Associates, three years in-a-row. Serving as a cornerstone of Chevy’s standing as Most Dependable (two years in-a-row) the Silverado is also recognized for both its ‘5 Year Cost-to-Own’ and “Resale” value.
An award-winning offering with proven capability, and near endless means for customization, there is no shortage of reasons to consider the Silverado. Regardless of your needs, rest assured, there is one that is perfect for you.
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As with all Chevy offerings, the Silverado stands head-and-shoulders above its competition in terms of incorporating available technologies.
Bluetooth-enabled, the Silverado is equipped with Chevy’s MyLink system, including voice controls and compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The infotainment system is based around a 7-inch display (with rearview camera) and a four-speaker sound system. Moving past the Work Truck (WT) trim, options can be dialed up or down as needed, but additional options include 4G LTE WiFi and even OnStar telematic services. The LT trim serves up nearly all of the above including additional options, upgrading the interface to an 8-inch touchscreen, with an enhanced sound system as well.
Atop the line, the LTZ and High Country trims include a wealth of specialty features. From a specialty Bose audio system to wireless phone charging, some speak to the evolving demand placed upon today’s trucks. Others, such as various Driver Assist and Safety Features serve a more noble purpose. Explore every option available to find out what’s best for you.
The Silverado provides a spacious and well-designed cabin, regardless of configuration. True to its pedigree, the overall design possesses the strength and integrity one would associate with such a celebrated truck. Well-assembled and consisting of strong material choices, it speaks to both quality and reliability, two of the Silverado’s core attributes.
Also present is a sense of refinement; an economy of design that eliminates any sense of waste or excess. The result conveys clarity, with seats designed to maximize the allotted space, accessibility of controls, and user-friendly displays. This inherent simplicity provides the perfect palate for any driver, whether they prefer a more minimalist cabin experience, or to surround themselves with additional features.
Unlike its more diminutive stablemate the Colorado, whose sculpted iconography lends a degree of playful sportiness, the Silverado’s first impression is one of utilitarian confidence. Still evocative of classic square body design, its every inch is distinctively Chevy.
The 1500 kicks things off with five different options for configuration (i) Regular Cab with Standard Bed (ii) Regular Cab with Long Bed (iii) Double Cab with Standard Bed (iv) Crew Cab with Short Bed, and (v) Crew Cab with Standard Bed. Short Bed lengths begin at 69.33 inches, followed by Standard at 78.87 inches and the Long variant at 97.77 inches.
The 2500HD refines the offerings by dropping the Short Bed variants. Offering only the Long Bed with the Regular Cab, it pairs both the Standard and Long options with the Double and Crew cab configurations.
Regardless of configuration, the strength of the Silverado’s on-brand design is only reinforced as you move upwards to the 3500HD. Supplemented by the option of dual real-wheel builds, the Silverado transforms into the ultimate realization of its beastly potential.
Available as either rear or four-wheel drive, the Silverado performs solidly, across the board.
The 1500 comes standard with a 4.3-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, channeling 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. Optional (but standard on the LTZ trim) is a 5.8-liter V8 that pumps those numbers up to 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, respectively. And optional on the LTX and High-Country trims is a 6.2-liter V8, paired with an eight-speed automatic that generates an impressive 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. Depending on the powertrain selected, a properly-equipped 1500 can tow up to 12,500 LBS with a payload capacity of up to 1770 LBS.
The 2500HD shows up to the party equipped (standard) with a 6.0-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic. Pumping out 360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, there is very little the 2500HD can’t handle. That said, there is the option of a turbocharged 6.6-liter diesel V8. Paired with an Allison 1000 six-speed transmission, and benefitting from the Silverado’s updated air intake system, this variant thrusts out a ground-shaking 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, the 2500HD can tow up to 18,100 LBS with a 3204 LB may payload.
The 3500HD follows suit with the 6.0-liter V8 serving as the standard equipment, with the option of the 6.6-liter diesel V8. With the latter, towing capacity jumps up to 20,000 LBS and the max payload more than doubles over that of the 2500HD.
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