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2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Full Review
Date Published: 3/27/08
Also in the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review:
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Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Full Review
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2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Sneak Peek
The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado adds an available gas/electric hybrid model. Silverado offers regular, extended, and crew cab body styles. Extended cabs have rear-hinged doors that don't open independently of the fronts. Regular cabs can seat up to three passengers, while extendeds and crews can seat up to six. The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado offers two interiors, dubbed "pure pickup" and "luxury inspired." Available engines, depending on cab/bed configuration, are a 195-hp 4.3-liter V6, 295-hp 4.8-liter V8, 315-hp 5.3-liter V8, and 367-hp 6.0-liter V8. The 5.3-liter V8 can be equipped to run on E85 ethanol fuel. It and the 6.0-liter V8 come with GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. The sole transmission is a 4-speed automatic. The hybrid has a 332-hp 6.0-liter V8 that pairs with an electric motor. It can run on one or both of its power sources, depending on driving demands, and requires no plug-in charging. The hybrid uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Maximum towing capacity is 10,500 lb. Rear-wheel drive is standard. Two 4WD systems are available: a part-time setup that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, and GM's Autotrac that can. Both include a low-range gear for off-roading. Silverado is available with four different suspensions. The Z83 and Z85 versions are designed for ride comfort. The Z60 is a street performance suspension and the Z71 is for off-road use. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Available features include a navigation system and remote engine start. This report is based on evaluations of the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado. We have not yet tested a Silverado hybrid.
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2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (5.3-liter V8) | Fuel economy |
| Instruments/controls | Ride (Z71 suspension) |
| Quietness | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Acceleration with the 5.3-liter V8 is more than adequate at all speeds, aided by the smooth-shifting transmission that kicks down quickly for more power. The available 6.0-liter V8 has a surplus of highway response, though the transmission sometimes hesitated to kick down for appropriate passing punch. The standard tow/haul mode adjusts shift points for best performance with heavy loads.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Acceleration with the 5.3-liter V8 is more than adequate at all speeds, aided by the smooth-shifting transmission that kicks down quickly for more power. The available 6.0-liter V8 has a surplus of highway response, though the transmission sometimes hesitated to kick down for appropriate passing punch. The standard tow/haul mode adjusts shift points for best performance with heavy loads.
Fuel Economy
Silverado is among the most frugal large pickups. In Consumer Guide testing, a rear-drive extended-cab with the 5.3-liter V8 averaged 15.6 mpg in city/highway driving. With the 6.0-liter V8, a 4WD extended cab averaged 14.4 mpg in mostly highway driving. All Silverados use regular-grade gas. Some versions of the 5.3-liter V8 can run on E85 ethanol.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.2 |
Silverado is among the most frugal large pickups. In Consumer Guide testing, a rear-drive extended-cab with the 5.3-liter V8 averaged 15.6 mpg in city/highway driving. With the 6.0-liter V8, a 4WD extended cab averaged 14.4 mpg in mostly highway driving. All Silverados use regular-grade gas. Some versions of the 5.3-liter V8 can run on E85 ethanol.
Ride Quality
The ride-oriented Z85 suspension is compliant and fairly comfortable, with less reverberation over bumps than in most pickups. The optional Z60 suspension includes 20-inch tires (vs. standard 17s) and is stiffer in all situations. Firmer still is the off-road-ready Z71, which exhibits much choppiness on-road over pavement cracks and washboard surfaces.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 5.2 |
The ride-oriented Z85 suspension is compliant and fairly comfortable, with less reverberation over bumps than in most pickups. The optional Z60 suspension includes 20-inch tires (vs. standard 17s) and is stiffer in all situations. Firmer still is the off-road-ready Z71, which exhibits much choppiness on-road over pavement cracks and washboard surfaces.
Steering/Handling/Braking
With the Z85 suspension, Silverado handles similarly to other large pickups, with noticeable body lean in fast turns. The Z60 and Z71 suspensions improve handling slightly. The steering is nicely weighted, if a bit numb. The brakes are responsive, though one test example suffered from slightly spongy pedal action.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.5 |
With the Z85 suspension, Silverado handles similarly to other large pickups, with noticeable body lean in fast turns. The Z60 and Z71 suspensions improve handling slightly. The steering is nicely weighted, if a bit numb. The brakes are responsive, though one test example suffered from slightly spongy pedal action.
Quietness
A strength. The 5.3-liter V8 sounds refined, as does the 6.0-liter V8, though the latter is a bit louder at full throttle. Road noise is kept in check. Wind noise is only a slight intrusion at highway speeds.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
A strength. The 5.3-liter V8 sounds refined, as does the 6.0-liter V8, though the latter is a bit louder at full throttle. Road noise is kept in check. Wind noise is only a slight intrusion at highway speeds.
Controls
The Pure Pickup interior places radio and climate controls high on the dashboard, just out of easy reach. The available luxury interior mimics that of Chevy's Tahoe and Suburban large SUVs, with controls mounted lower but in easy reach. The optional navigation system absorbs some audio functions, but higher trim levels offer redundant controls on the steering wheel.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 7 | 6.1 |
The Pure Pickup interior places radio and climate controls high on the dashboard, just out of easy reach. The available luxury interior mimics that of Chevy's Tahoe and Suburban large SUVs, with controls mounted lower but in easy reach. The optional navigation system absorbs some audio functions, but higher trim levels offer redundant controls on the steering wheel.
Details
Despite its work-truck intentions, the materials on Silverados with the Pure Pickup interior don't look bargain basement. The luxury interior has dressier trim. Despite ample use of hard plastics with the luxury trim, the ambiance is still upscale.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 7 | 5.6 |
Despite its work-truck intentions, the materials on Silverados with the Pure Pickup interior don't look bargain basement. The luxury interior has dressier trim. Despite ample use of hard plastics with the luxury trim, the ambiance is still upscale.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Ample adult room. Bucket or bench, the seats are comfortable if somewhat lacking in side support. Visibility is generally good, though the extended cab has wide rear pillars that block the view to the back corners. Available power-adjustable pedals are a boon for shorter drivers.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
Ample adult room. Bucket or bench, the seats are comfortable if somewhat lacking in side support. Visibility is generally good, though the extended cab has wide rear pillars that block the view to the back corners. Available power-adjustable pedals are a boon for shorter drivers.
Room/Comfort (rear)
With front bucket seats, the center console restricts foot space for the center rear-seat passenger. Headroom is generous, however. Ditto for legroom in the crew cab. The extended cab's seatback is set at a comfortable angle, but legroom is tight even if the front seats aren't set far back. Extended's wide-opening rear doors are a convenience in tight spaces and offer power windows, but if fully open, the doors can't be closed by a seated passenger.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 8 | 6.2 |
With front bucket seats, the center console restricts foot space for the center rear-seat passenger. Headroom is generous, however. Ditto for legroom in the crew cab. The extended cab's seatback is set at a comfortable angle, but legroom is tight even if the front seats aren't set far back. Extended's wide-opening rear doors are a convenience in tight spaces and offer power windows, but if fully open, the doors can't be closed by a seated passenger.
Cargo Room
In extendeds and crew cabs, the rear seat cushion flips back against the seatback leaving a large cargo area with a nearly flat floor. Pure Pickup interior features upper and lower gloveboxes; luxury version has only the lower one. Bucket seats come with a roomy console bin. Bench seat is available with flip-down center armrest that doubles as a large storage bin.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 4 | 4.6 |
In extendeds and crew cabs, the rear seat cushion flips back against the seatback leaving a large cargo area with a nearly flat floor. Pure Pickup interior features upper and lower gloveboxes; luxury version has only the lower one. Bucket seats come with a roomy console bin. Bench seat is available with flip-down center armrest that doubles as a large storage bin.
Value within Class
A lengthy list of available features, including 4WD that can be used on dry pavement, make Silverado a 2008 Recommended choice for anyone shopping large pickups. Unless you frequently tow heavy loads, the exceptionally refined 5.3-liter V8 should provide more than enough power for most needs.
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.6 |
A lengthy list of available features, including 4WD that can be used on dry pavement, make Silverado a 2008 Recommended choice for anyone shopping large pickups. Unless you frequently tow heavy loads, the exceptionally refined 5.3-liter V8 should provide more than enough power for most needs.
Total Score
| 2WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z71 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD ext. cab w/Pure Pickup int., Z60 susp., 5.3 V8 | 4WD crew cab w/Luxury int., Z85 susp., 5.3 V8 | Class Average |
| 57 | 58 | 67 | 63.2 |
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
| Low Score | 57 | |
| Average Score | 63 | |
| High Score | 68 |
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2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/16/2007
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
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
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 regular cab 6.5-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 regular cab 8.1-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab 5.8-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab 6.5-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab 8.1-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab |
| Wheelbase, in. | 119.0 | 133.0 | 133.9 | 143.5 | 157.5 | 143.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 205.7 | 224.6 | 220.6 | 230.2 | 249.2 | 230.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 79.9 | 79.9 | 79.9 | 79.9 | 79.9 | 80.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 73.9 | 73.7 | 73.8 | 73.9 | 73.6 | 73.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4448 | 4588 | 4864 | 4797 | 5213 | 5142 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 1952 | 1812 | 1829 | 2160 | 1687 | 2039 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 26.0 | 34.0 | 26.0 | 26.0 | 34.0 | 26.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 3 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 41.4 | 41.4 | 41.2 | 41.2 | 41.2 | 41.2 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.3 | 41.3 | 41.3 | 41.3 | 41.3 | 41.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | -- | 39.2 | 39.2 | 39.2 | 40.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | -- | 34.3 | 34.3 | 34.3 | 38.7 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | ohv V8 | ohv V8 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 4.3 /262 | 4.8 /293 | 5.3 /325 | 6.0 /364 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 195 @ 4600 | 295 @ 5600 | 315 @ 5200 | 367 @ 5500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 260 @ 2800 | 305 @ 4800 | 338 @ 4400 | 375 @ 4300 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard | Optional |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||||
| 4-speed automatic | 15/20 | 14/19 | 15/20 | 13/18 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 regular cab 6.5-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 regular cab 8.1-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab 5.8-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab 6.5-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab 8.1-ft bed | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab |
Coming soon.
Please check back for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Built in:
Mexico, Canada, USA
Drivewheels:
4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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Also in the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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