2007 Chevrolet Silverado HD: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

General Motors' brawniest pickup trucks are redesigned for 2007 with fresh looks, new features, and revised powerteams. Silverado HD is the heavy-duty version of Chevrolet's full-size Silverado 1500. GMC's Sierra HD models differ mainly in front-end appearance. Both brands also sell Classic HDs for 2007. These are '06-model carryovers with a basic design dating from 1999 and are covered in separate reports.

The redesigned Silverado HDs offer 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 series in WT (Work Truck), LT, and luxury LTZ trim. Cab styles are a 2-dr regular, 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 with a flip-up cushion that's now split 60/40. The regular cab comes only with an 8-foot "long" cargo box. Extendeds and crews also offer a 6.5-foot "short" bed. The long bed is included with optional dual rear wheels.

An 8.1-liter gasoline V8 is not offered in the new lineup, but the HD's base 6.0-liter gains 53 hp for 353 total. The 6.6-liter "Duramax" turbodiesel V8 returns from a 2006 update with 365 hp. Both engines mate to 6-speed automatic transmissions, replacing 4-speed units. Manual transmission is no longer available.

All models have four-wheel ABS disc brakes. A newly available integrated trailer-brake controller links these with trailer brakes to enhance stopping stability while towing. Buyers can choose rear-wheel drive or one of two 4WD systems with low-range gearing: a basic setup that is not designed for dry pavement, and GM's all-surface Autotrac 4WD. An automatic locking rear differential is standard, as is a "handling/towing" Z85 suspension. An available Z71 off-road package includes an uprated suspension and chassis skid plates. Every HD has tire-pressure monitor and GM OnStar assistance. Side airbags are unavailable.

Interiors come in "Pure Pickup" and "Luxury Inspired" designs. Rear doors on extendeds now open to 170 degrees and include full-drop power windows. New convenience options include rear-obstacle detection, remote starting system, power-adjustable pedals, and power-sliding rear window (except regular cabs). Also newly available is an "EZ Lift" tailgate assist feature and bed-wall cargo rails with sliding anchorages for various accessories. Among other options are a swing-out bed extender, heated front seats, touch-screen navigation system, satellite radio, and rear DVD entertainment.

This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

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.