2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500: Road Test
2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 ▼
- MSRP: $18,950 - $39,205
- Invoice: $17,150 - $34,305
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Our road test for the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 help you decide if a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
The V6 often struggles, but V8s have enough power for most situations and are recommended. Automatic transmission is alert, smooth; Tow/Haul mode adjusts shift points for best performance with heavy loads. Available all-surface 4WD and optional traction control for 2WD models--both class exclusives (shared by GMC)--are terrific advantages. Have not tested the SS, but it should be as speedy as the similarly powered GMC Sierra Denali.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
Par for the class. Test 2WD regular-cab 1500 with 4.8-liter V8 averaged 16.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. Test extended-cab 4WD with 5.3 V8 averaged 13.7 mpg overall. Test 6.0-liter Crew Cab returned 7.2 mpg in all city driving; expect slightly better with some highway use. All models tested had automatic transmission. 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 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.7 |
1500s are generally more compliant than equivalent Ford F-150s, but still stiff and bouncy except on glass-smooth surfaces. 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 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Good overall balance for a big truck--a match for any rival. Steering accurate, but not as precise as Ford's. Available Quadrasteer 4-wheel steering system gives carlike maneuverability, especially in tight spots, and enhances towing ability.
QUIETNESS
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable and slightly lower than in comparable Fords.
CONTROLS
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
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 provides engine-hour meter in addition to conventional odometer.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Ample big-American space. Even regular cabs have good rearward seat travel, seatback recline, and clearance to rear window. Supportive seats have integrated safety belts that most testers find comfortably positioned and easy to reach.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 4.4 |
Good leg clearance and comfortably angled seatback make GM's extended cabs the most accommodating among full-size pickups. Crew Cabs are even more spacious and comfortable, a good match for F-150 SuperCrew and better than Dodge Ram Club Cab. Crew Cabs aren't offered in the 2500 series, but are available in the 2500HD; see separate entry.
CARGO ROOM
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 4.8 |
Extended and Crew Cabs have ample in-cab storage with rear bench seat folded up, but lack bins, nets, or protective flooring. Behind-seat room in regular cab beats Ford, trails Dodge.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base 1500 reg. cab 2WD, V6 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 6.9 |
These GM pickups lead the pack in 4WD sophistication and extended-cab rear-seat room, 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 | LS 1500 ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 | LS Crew Cab 4WD | 2500 ext. cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 56 | 60 | 54 | 49.8 |
Total Score: 40
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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