Silverado Classic HD is the heavy-duty version of the Silverado Classic 1500. The name Classic denotes a basic design that dates from 1999 and is making its final appearance for 2007. GMC, Chevrolet's sister division, sells near-identical Sierra Classics. All these trucks are sold alongside redesigned versions also designated as '07 models.
Essentially unchanged from 2006, Silverado Classic HDs come in 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 series. Trim levels are WT (Work Truck), LT, and top-line LS. Three cab types are available: 2-dr regular cab, a 4-dr extended cab with rear access doors, and a crew cab with four full-size front-hinged doors. All can be ordered with front bucket seats or a 40/20/40 split bench. Extendeds and crews include a three-person rear bench. Regulars come with an 8-foot "long" cargo box. Extendeds and crews also offer a 6.5-foot "short" bed. Dual rear wheels are available, as are chassis-cab and chassis-cutaway models.
All Classic HD pickups are available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD that includes low range gearing but cannot be used on dry pavement. An electronic-shift transfer case is standard on 4WD LTs, optional on LSs. All models have standard dual dashboard airbags and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Side-curtain airbags are not offered. The base engine is a 6.0-liter gasoline V8 with 300 hp. A 330-hp 8.1-liter gas V8 is optional. Also available is a 6.6-liter "Duramax" turbodiesel V8 that returns from a 2006 update with 360 hp, up 60. The base V8 teams with 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic with Tow/Haul mode. The two larger engines offer a 6-speed manual or an optional Allison 5-speed automatic with Engine Grade Braking, an electronic feature that makes an automatic downshift when descending steep slopes. Options include satellite radio, OnStar assistance system, a rear-seat entertainment system for Crew Cabs, and power-extending camper mirrors.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty 1/2-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider 3/4- or 1-ton models.
Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.
News
Sources say redesigned versions of the brawniest Silverados (and GMC Sierras) arrive in January 2007 as early '08 offerings. They share the basic GMT900 big-truck architecture with the new-wave light-duty models now reaching dealers.