Our road test for the 1990-1998 Chevrolet C/K Pickup includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the
1990-1998 Chevrolet C/K Pickup and highlighted the vehicle's performance
with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation
1990-1998 Chevrolet C/K Pickup is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The V6 feels adequate with manual shift, but a 5.0- or 5.7-liter V8 would be wiser for any significant work, especially with automatic transmission. Short-bed Sportsides have a more sporty appearance and, with a larger V8, move impressively. A K2500 4x4 with 5.7-liter V8 and automatic averaged 13.3 mpg, and yielded strong low-end pulling power as well as good passing response. Braking can be a problem with rear antilocking, when the bed is unladen. Four-wheel ABS on later models is a better bet. Acceleration in a 454 SS is actually neck-snapping, and its wide tires and sports suspension make it the best-handling full-size pickup you're likely to find. Visibility is good from a wide, spacious cab that has ample room for even the largest occupants. Gauges are unobstructed but can be hard to read in sunlight, and electronic heat/vent controls are complicated. Gloveboxes are tiny. Ride quality is better than in prior pickups, but higher-capacity models don't take bumps so well when the box is unloaded. Only the short-wheelbase 4x4 with off-road suspension rides really harshly. Engine improvements for '96 were impressive. The V6 still isn't ideal for heavy work, but the 5.0-liter V8 is now a smooth, capable choice (except for serious towing or hauling). The 5.7 V8 feels much livelier, furnishing robust acceleration and fine pulling power.
Value for the Money
Chevrolet's C/K models are an excellent choice in the full-size pickup field. Trucks equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 are still our top choice.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category |
Chevrolet C1500 5.7-liter ext. cab Rating |
|
Performance |
4 |
|
Fuel Economy |
2 |
|
Ride Quality |
3 |
|
Steering/Handling/Braking |
3 |
|
Quietness |
3 |
|
Controls/Materials |
4 |
|
Interior Room |
6 |
|
Room/Comfort (rear) |
2 |
|
Cargo Capacity |
2 |
|
Value within Class |
7 |
| Total Score: |
36 |
|
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.