Performance: 2005 Chevrolet SilveradoPowertrain Acceleration of the Vortec 5.3-liter is quite good, but still not as quick as that of the stronger Hemi-powered Dodge Ram. The V-8 engines (4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L) are common throughout GM offerings, and derivations have powered past Chevrolet Corvettes.
The torquey Silverado V-6 helps the truck achieve a tow rating higher than that of all competitors' six-cylinder models. However, the V-6 isn't powerful enough to be offered with the heavier crew cab.
The most sporting player in the Silverado lineup is the pricey, all-wheel-drive Super Sport (SS), whose high-output 6.0-liter delivers 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. A rear-wheel-drive version will soon join the lineup. Most Silverado buyers make do with the four-speed automatic transmission (a five-speed isn't available in the 1500), while a gas-saving five-speed manual comes standard in a few models (mostly six-cylinders) and isn't offered in the light-duty crew cabs.
Behind the Wheel The Silverado provides its driver with a commanding seating position. On the road, this truck is unintimidating and easy to drive, with a number of carlike characteristics. Four-wheel-drive, Z71-optioned trucks are also extremely capable off-road when put to the test. Ride quality is predictably trucklike and rough at times, and overall refinement lags behind that of the Nissan Titan and Ford F-150. The Silverado still does a very good job of achieving its intended hard-working mission, but is showing its age when compared with newer competitors.
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2004 K2500 Model Shown
