What are the prices for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium: $128,000

2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2: $133,000

Prices exclude on-road costs

What’s under the bonnet? 

The heart of the Chevrolet Silverado is a robust 6.2-litre V8 engine. This powerplant produces a hefty 313kW and 624Nm of torque, delivering the necessary thrust for any task at hand.

The engine is paired with a refined 10-speed automatic transmission, which directs power to all four wheels. This advanced system offers 2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L modes.

The 4A option allows owners to benefit from four-wheel traction even on paved surfaces, a significant advantage when maneuvering a weighty 2500kg truck on damp roads or off-road tyres.

Fuel economy for the Silverado is reported at a modest 12.2 litres per 100km in mixed driving conditions. A sizeable 91-litre fuel tank offers ample range for long hauls.

How does the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 drive? 

The most significant upgrade to the ZR2 model comes in the form of its advanced dampers. Utilizing technology inspired by high-speed desert racing, these dampers feature an external oil reservoir to efficiently manage the heat stress associated with sustained off-road use.

These smart dampers can adapt their response based on the nature of the impact. As a result, the truck behaves differently when cornering through a sweeping bend versus when it encounters a pothole or a rut on a trail. This design aims to enhance the ZR2's versatility compared to the previous Trail Boss model, all while maintaining comfort.

Off-road, the ZR2 now feels more stable. Instead of clumsily navigating ruts or jouncing along rough trails, the new dampers contribute to a more controlled and comfortable driving experience.

The truck's wheel articulation is notable, especially in offset moguls. The Chevrolet manages to maintain ground contact even when two of its robust mud-terrain tires are pulled right up into the wheel wells. And if you find yourself stuck, the ZR2 outperforms the LTZ with its selectable front and rear differential locks.

In terms of off-road driving aids, the ZR2 brings a few clever tricks to the table. The Terrain mode virtually eliminates the need for the brake pedal. Simply apply the accelerator to set your desired speed, and the vehicle will automatically engage the brakes upon releasing the accelerator, bringing the car to a halt regardless of its angle.

Another unique feature is an off-road cruise control mode that maintains a set low speed without any pedal input. While these features may seem like unnecessary gimmicks, they aim to simplify off-road driving for the less experienced. Ultimately, it's the ZR2's mud-terrain tires, DSSV-equipped suspension, and driver-activated front and rear locking differentials that mark it as a truly exceptional off-roader.

What is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 like on the inside? 

The 2023 Silverado 1500 models carry over the same structural integrity, but significant updates have been made to their interiors. The dashboard now showcases a substantial 13.4-inch colour touchscreen and a 12.3-inch customizable instrument cluster, a significant upgrade from the modest screen and traditional dials found in the older model.

One factor that led to the previous LT Trail Boss model losing favor was its less premium feel. As buyers sought more refinement in their trucks, the LT’s standard cloth seats fell short.

To meet these expectations, both 2023 Silverado models boast luxurious interiors that feature leather seating with power adjustment. Front seats offer both heating and cooling options, while rear seats enjoy the warmth of heating. The rear seating area offers copious space, far surpassing the capacity of any mid-size pickup in comfortably accommodating three adults.

The LTZ Premium maintains its position as the most luxurious option. It builds on the standard features with a power sunroof and a high-quality Bose sound system. Regardless of the model chosen, the experience of driving or being a passenger in these trucks is comfortable. Additionally, both models come fully equipped with an extensive range of safety features like low-speed AEB (up to 80km/h), TPMS, rear cross-traffic alert, ESC, ABS, ETC, lane-keeping alert, and a plethora of exterior cameras rivaling a Hollywood film studio's collection.

In terms of rear seat space, the Silverado excels. It can comfortably accommodate three adults on the bench, and the generous legroom outperforms popular pickups like the Ranger or HiLux. Amenities include air vents and two USB ports for back seat passengers.

A novel addition to the 2023 ZR2 model is a re-sculpted rear bench, specifically designed to secure children during intense off-road adventures.

The Silverado's tray boasts a durable, spray-in liner. For the LTZ model, the tray measures a substantial 1780mm in length (1400mm considering the roller shutter), 1490mm in width (1280mm between arches), and 590mm in depth, making it highly practical for various uses.

Is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 safe?

The Chevrolet Silverado's safety performance is yet to be officially assessed by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. However, the 2023 models come equipped with a more comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. For instance, the ZR2 trim now includes autonomous emergency braking as standard.

The safety features available across all models are:

Six airbags

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection

Blind-Spot Monitoring with Trailer Assist

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

The upscale LTZ Premium model adds Adaptive Cruise Control and front and rear parking sensors.

How much does the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 cost to run? 

The Chevrolet Silverado comes with a three-year warranty, providing coverage for up to 100,000 kilometers. Note, GM Specialty Vehicles does not provide capped-price servicing.

Yeecar’s Take on the Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Silverado 1500 is the quintessential workhorse that is also easy to live with, especially for those residing in less urban areas. Its sizable dimensions and commanding presence are hard to miss. As a touring truck, it easily cruises long distances, boasting the capacity to tow nearly everything you could require.

While some potential buyers may lament the absence of a diesel variant, most 1500 truck manufacturers and importers believe petrol is the preferred choice. The fact remains that diesel alternatives are sparse even in their home country, and the limited demand in Australia doesn't justify exclusive models.

Recent upgrades have elevated the Silverado's cabin to match its hefty price tag. A contemporary infotainment system, an updated dashboard design, and premium materials combine to create an interior that is as comfortable as it is luxurious.

Driving the LTZ feels familiar, and that's a good thing. It remains capable off-road and a reliable hauler. The newly introduced ZR2 trim is a different animal altogether, with its rugged appearance and enhanced capabilities. Despite having the same power, it delivers superior performance on the road and even deeper into off-road terrains thanks to advanced dampers and locking differentials.

The Australian market for 1500 class pick-ups is expanding, with competition poised to intensify with the official introduction of Ford's F-150 and Toyota's potential entry with the Tundra. For now, the Silverado 1500's main rival is the Ram 1500, the current sales leader offering a broader range including the $200,000 supercharged RAM TRX.

Despite the TRX being the only comparable to the ZR2 in terms of performance, the substantial gap in price and capabilities leaves each in a unique league of its own.