2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500: Road Test
2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 ▼
- MSRP: $18,108 - $35,960
- Invoice: $16,388 - $31,465
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Our road test for the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 help you decide if a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
V6 struggles under heavy load; larger V8s furnish good power and are recommended. Automatic transmission is alert, smooth; Tow/Haul mode effective. Available all-surface 4WD and optional traction control for 2WD models--both class exclusives--are terrific advantages. GMC's Sierra Denali sport/luxury model with 6.0-liter V8 is a strong performer.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2.1 |
Par for the class. In our tests, 13.7 mpg in 1500 4WD extended-cabs with 5.3 V8 and automatic. A 2WD 5.3 Sierra averaged 12.6 with more city driving. Test 6.0 Crew Cab averaged just 7.2 mpg in all city driving; expect slightly higher with more highway use. We have not had an opportunity to measure fuel economy with a 2500. All engines use regular fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
More compliant on 1500s than Ford's F-150, though still quite stiff and bouncy over most any surface imperfection. Harder-sprung 2500s ride more stiffly, but not markedly so. As with any pickup, the tail stutters some over bumps with an empty bed.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 3 | 3.1 |
Good overall balance for a big truck--a match for any rival. Steering accurate, but not as precise as Ford's. Quadrasteer 4-wheel steering system is a revelation, giving this big pickup impressive close-quarter maneuverability as well as enhancing high-speed tracking and towing stability.
QUIETNESS
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.3 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable and slightly lower than in comparable Fords.
CONTROLS
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Gauge location, switchgear placement and feel are top-notch, though wipers deserve their own control rather than being activated by twisting the turn-signal lever. GM is alone in offering an engine-hour meter in addition to conventional odometer.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Roomy, with supportive seats. Integrated safety belts move comfortably with seats. Regular-cab models allow good seat travel, seatback recline, and clearance to rear window.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 8 | 5 | 4.4 |
Extended cabs have class-leading accommodations, with greater leg clearance and more comfortable seating than any rival extended cab. Crew Cabs are even more spacious and comfortable, a good match for F-150 SuperCrew.
CARGO ROOM
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 7 | 5 | 5 |
Extended cabs provide fine storage with rear bench seat folded up, though they lack bins, nets, protective flooring. Behind-seat room in regular cab beats Ford, trails Dodge.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 10 | 6.7 |
GM pickups lead the pack in 4WD sophistication, and are unique in offering traction control with 2WD and the convenience of 4-wheel steering. Factor in competitive performance, comfort, design, and pricing, and Silverado and Sierra are easy Best Buys.
Total Score
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | 2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 | 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | 60 | 56 | 48.9 |
Total Score: 38
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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