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2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Full Review
Date Published: 3/14/08
2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review
Chevrolet's full-size pickup gets more V8 power for 2000, and a fourth door is now standard instead of optional on extended-cab models. Silverado continues in regular and extended cabs, 2- or 4-wheel drive, and base, LS, and LT trim. GMC's Sierra offers a parallel lineup with slightly different styling, features mix, and pricing. This report covers the half-ton 1500-series models.

The extended cab's driver-side rear door was a $330 option and supplemented a standard passenger-side rear door. The driver-side door became standard at midyear and extended-cabs got a $330 base-price increase. These doors are hinged at the back and do not open independently of the front doors. Extended-cabs come with a three-passenger rear bench seat. Both cab styles offer flush-fender Fleetside cargo boxes of 6.5 or 8.1 feet; a 6.5-foot flare-fender Sportside box is available on base and LS models. All Silverados come with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. A class exclusive shared with GMC is optional adjustable ride control with two levels of shock absorber firmness to suit road or load.

A 4.3-liter V6 repeats as base power, while the available 4.8- and 5.3-liter V8s gain 15 horsepower each. All engines team with manual or optional automatic transmission; the latter features GM's Tow/Haul mode that adjusts shift points to maximize power under heavy loads. Silverado's optional AutoTrac is the only 4-wheel-drive system on a full-size pickup that can be left engaged on dry pavement. It can be locked in 4WD or allowed to automatically engage the front axle when rear-wheel slip is detected. Low-range gearing is provided.

LT models gain a self-dimming inside mirror for 2000. New options include wheel flares for 4x4s and a factory-fit cargo bed cover.
Competition
With the advent of crossover vehicles the segment has become less defined. Once the domain of work-related heavy-duty pickups, buyers are now demanding that their full-size trucks do double duty. Our Best Buys remain the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra. These trucks offer a wide range of powertrain combinations, plenty of luxury accommodations, and ample towing power--though the GM twins are the only ones to offer full-time 4WD.

The big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models feature for feature but can't match their ride comfort or civility.
News
Today's big-truck lineups are so broad and complex that manufacturers just aren't able to redesign and start producing all variations at once. That's why Chevy introduced its 2000 Silverado in only the most popular light-duty models. Now that that's done, new-design one-ton and heavy-duty 3/4-ton pickups will roll out for 2001. Also on deck is a 4-door Crew Cab body style for all Silverado chassis, a reply to Ford's 2001 F-150 SuperCrew.

In addition, the '01 Silverado line will feature a new 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8 to replace the elderly 6.5-liter unit. A joint project between General Motors and Isuzu, the Duramax features four valves per cylinder instead of two and direct instead of indirect fuel injection, both of which should increase fuel efficiency while reducing emissions. With direct injection, fuel is squirted into the cylinders instead of being mixed with air in a pre-chamber.

Further out is the prospect of optional 4-wheel steering to make these big rigs easier to park. Several Japanese cars offered 4WS about a decade ago, but the idea found little buyer acceptance, partly because of its high price. But 4WS makes a lot of sense for large pickups and sport-utility vehicles, and CONSUMER GUIDE magazine recently got a look at General Motors' new Quadrasteer system. It works well, providing a much tighter turning circle and consequently easier parking.

Just when Quadrasteer might be available is a bit hazy now, GM saying only that the feature could arrive in two years time. Industry insiders tip that GMC, the company's "premium truck" brand, would offer it before Chevrolet, and probably on big pickups rather than full-size SUVs. Still, where GMC leads, Chevy trucks usually follow, so Silverados might well be available with Quadrasteer by 2004.
2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration (V8s) Fuel economy
Instruments/controls Ride
Rear-seat entry/exit (extended cab)
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
4 5 6 4.9

The V6 engine struggles under a heavy load or up long grades, but it's a smooth runner, as are the V8s. Our choice is the 5.3-liter engine, which has good power in all conditions.
Fuel Economy

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
2 2 2 1.7

Fuel economy is about par for this class. We averaged 13.7 mpg with extended-cab 4WD models with the 5.3 V8 and automatic transmission; a 2WD 5.3 returned 12.6 with more city driving.
Ride Quality

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
3 4 4 3.4

Ride quality is firm but seldom jarring, even in 4x4 form. Tail still stutters over bumps with the bed empty.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
2 3 4 3.4

Steering is fairly precise despite being overboosted. Handling is capable and the optional adjustable suspension improves stability when hauling or towing.
Quietness

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
5 5 5 4.4

Road, wind, and engine noise levels are unobjectionable.
Controls

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
7 7 7 6.6

Design, feel, and location of gauges and controls is as good as any in this class, and GM supplements the odometer with an engine-hour meter.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
7 9 9 8

Roomy and supportive. Integrated safety belts move comfortably with the seats. Regular-cab models allow good seat travel, seatback recline, and clearance to rear window.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
0 5 5 2.4

Extended cabs offer class-leading accommodations, with greater leg clearance and more comfortable seating than any competitor. We strongly recommend the optional fourth door.
Cargo Room

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
1 5 5 3.4

Extended-cabs provide fine storage with the rear bench seat folded up, though they lack bins, nets, or protective flooring. Behind-seat room in regular-cab beats Ford, trails Dodge.
Value within Class

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
6 7 7 6.6

They're a step behind Ford in innovations such as a half-ton crew cab, but in performance, comfort, design, and pricing, Silverado and Sierra are Best Buys.
Total Score

Base reg. cab 2WD, V6 LS ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 LT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
37 52 54 44.8
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks

Low Score
35
Average Score
44
High Score
61
2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 07/26/2000
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
2WD Base regular cab, short bed $15,655 $14,168 $720
2WD Base regular cab, long bed $15,955 $14,439 $720
4WD Base regular cab, short bed $18,770 $16,987 $720
4WD Base regular cab, long bed $19,070 $17,258 $720
2WD Base extended cab, short bed $20,059 $17,552 $720
2WD Base extended cab, long bed $21,054 $18,422 $720
4WD Base extended cab, short bed $23,854 $20,872 $720
4WD Base extended cab, long bed $24,154 $21,135 $720
2WD LS regular cab, short bed $19,751 $17,282 $720
2WD LS regular cab, long bed $20,051 $17,545 $720
4WD LS regular cab, short bed $22,851 $19,995 $720
4WD LS regular cab, long bed $23,151 $20,257 $720
2WD LS extended cab, short bed $22,831 $19,977 $720
2WD LS extended cab, long bed $23,826 $20,848 $720
4WD LS extended cab, short bed $26,626 $23,298 $720
4WD LS extended cab, long bed $26,926 $23,560 $720
2WD LT extended cab, short bed $28,540 $24,973 $720
2WD LT extended cab, long bed $28,840 $25,235 $720
4WD LT extended cab, short bed $31,750 $27,781 $720
4WD LT extended cab, long bed $32,050 $28,044 $720
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
4.3-liter V6 engine (regular cab, 2WD extended cab short bed), 4.8-liter V8 engine (4WD extended cab, 2WD extended cab long bed), 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Variable-assist power steering, tilt steering wheel, rear-hinged rear doors (extended cab), vinyl split bench seat, rear bench seat (extended cab), cupholders, AM/FM radio, digital clock, tachometer, engine hour meter, passenger-side visor mirror, rear heat ducts (extended cab), cargo box light, intermittent wipers, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, dual outside mirrors, chrome front bumper, painted rear step bumper, Fleetside body, 7-lead trailer harness.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Full-size spare tire, 235/75R16 tires, 4WD models add: part-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks, 245/75R16 tires.
LS adds to base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, AM/FM/CD player, reclining 40/20/40 cloth split bench seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, overhead console, carpeting, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Chrome rear step bumper.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Chrome steel wheels, 4WD models add: part-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks, 245/75R16 tires.
LT extended cab adds to LS:
Powertrain
5.3-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated dual 6-way power seats w/driver seat memory, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, automatic day/night rearview mirror w/compass, outside temperature indicator, rear defogger, heated power mirrors.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, deep-tinted glass.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
255/70R16 tires, alloy wheels, 4WD models add: full-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks, 245/75R16 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Exterior Appearance Pkg.
Base Fleetside
$625
$538
Base w/Sportside
$525
$452
Chrome grille, chrome rear step bumper (Fleetside), bodyside moldings, chrome steel wheels.
Off-Road Suspension Pkg.
LS 4WD
$395
$340
Includes heavy-duty air cleaner, skid plates, stabilizer bars, off-road jounce bumpers.
Snow Plow Prep Pkg.
4WD regular cab short bed
$285
$245
4WD regular short bed w/Trailering Pkg.
$190
$163
Includes heavy-duty cooling, heavy-duty alternator. NA with 4.3-liter V6 engine.
Trailering Pkg.
Base, LS, LT extended cab
$285
$245
Includes trailer hitch platform, transmission oil cooler. Requires V8 engine, automatic transmission.
Powertrain
4.3-liter V6
Base, LS
$0
$0
NA extended cab long bed, 4WD extended cab. NA with extended cab Sportside body.
4.8-liter V8
regular cab, 2WD Base/LS extended cab short bed
$695
$598
5.3-liter V8
regular cab, 2WD extended cab short bed
$1,495
$1,286
4WD extended cab, 2WD extended cab long bed
$800
$688
Std. LT. Requires 4-speed automatic transmission.
5-speed manual transmission
Base, LS
$0
$0
Requires 4.3-liter V6 or 4.8-liter V8.
4-speed automatic transmission
Base, LS
$1,095
$942
Locking differential
Base, LS, LT extended cab
$285
$245
Autotrac full-time 4WD
4WD LS
$375
$323
Requires automatic transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning
Base
$825
$710
AM/FM/cassette player
Base regular cab
$170
$146
Base extended cab
$150
$129
AM/FM/cassette/CD player
LS extended cab
$100
$86
Requires automatic transmission. 4WD requires bucket seats.
Cellular telephone pre-wiring
Base, LS, LT extended cab
$50
$43
Cloth upholstery
Base, LS
$0
$0
Leather upholstery
LS extended cab
$1,480
$1,273
Includes dual 6-way power seats. Requires automatic transmission.
Bucket seats
LS
$425
$366
Dual 6-way power seats
LS
$480
$413
Rear defogger
Base, LS
$175
$151
NA with sliding rear window. Base requires air conditioning.
Power door locks
Base
$162
$139
Automatic day/night rearview mirror
LS
$175
$151
Includes compass and outside temperature indicator.
Heated power mirrors
LS
$42
$36
Requires rear defogger.
Carpeting
Base
$100
$86
Includes floormats.
Cruise control
Base
$240
$206
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sportside body
Base short bed
$895
$770
LS short bed
$795
$684
Base includes chrome rear step bumper.
Chrome rear bumper
Base Fleetside
$100
$86
Tonneau cover
Fleetside
$240
$206
Camper mirrors
Base
$60
$52
LS, LT (credit))
$-38
$-32
Fog lights
LS
$140
$120
Deep-tinted glass
Base/LS regular cab
$50
$43
Base/LS extended cab
$107
$92
Sliding rear window
Base, LS
$125
$108
Two-tone paint
LS
$250
$215
Engine-block heater
Base, LS, LT extended cab
$35
$30
Wheel flares
4WD
$180
$155
Camper wiring provisions
Base, LS, LT extended cab
$25
$22
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
High capacity air cleaner
Base, LS, LT extended cab
$25
$22
Front tow hooks
2WD
$38
$33
Skid plates
4WD
$95
$82
Firm ride suspension
Base, LS, 4WD LT
$95
$82
2WD LT
$0
$0
Includes heavy-duty shock absorbers. 2WD requires 255/75R16 tires.
Ride Control Suspension
2WD LS
$420
$361
2WD LT
$325
$280
Includes adjustable shock absorbers. Requires 255/75R16 tires.
Alloy wheels
LS
$110
$95
235/75R16 white-letter tires
Base, LS
$125
$108
245/75R16 all-terrain tires
4WD
$105
$90
245/75R16 all-terrain white-letter tires
4WD
$230
$198
LT245/75R16 on/off-road tires
4WD
$161
$136
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Off-Road Pkg.
LT245/75R16 on/off-road white-letter tires
4WD
$286
$246
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Off-Road Pkg.
255/75R16 tires
2WD Base, 2WD LS
$170
$146
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Ride Control Suspension.
255/75R16 white-letter tires
2WD Base, 2WD LS
$295
$254
2WD LT
$125
$108
Base and LS require Firm Ride Suspension or Ride Control Suspension.
265/75R16 all-terrain tires
4WD LS, 4WD LT
$240
$206
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Off-Road Pkg. LS requires alloy wheels.
265/75R16 all-terrain white-letter tires
4WD LS, 4WD LT
$365
$314
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Off-Road Pkg. LS requires alloy wheels.
LT265/75R16 on/off-road tires
4WD
$161
$139
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Off-Road Pkg.
LT265/75R16 on/off-road white-letter tires
4WD
$286
$246
Requires Firm Ride Suspension or Off-Road Pkg.
2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reg. cab short bed Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reg. cab long bed Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ext. cab short bed Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ext. cab long bed
Wheelbase, in. 119.0 133.0 143.5 157.5
Overall Length, in. 203.3 222.0 227.5 246.7
Overall Width, in. 78.5 78.5 78.5 78.5
Overall Height, in. 71.2 71.0 71.2 70.8
Curb Weight, lbs. 3923 4032 4235 4442
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. -- -- -- --
Standard Payload, lbs. 2177 2368 1965 1757
Fuel Capacity, gals. 26.0 34.0 26.0 34.0
Seating Capacity 3 3 6 6
Front Head Room, in. 41.0 41.0 41.0 41.0
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3 41.3 41.3 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. -- -- 38.4 38.4
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. -- -- 33.7 33.7
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  ohv V6 ohv V8 ohv V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 4.3 /262 4.8 /292 5.3 /325
Horsepower @ rpm. 200 @ 4600 270 @ 5200 285 @ 5200
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 260 @ 2800 285 @ 4000 325 @ 4000
Availability Standard Optional Optional
EPA City / highway mpg
     
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