2011 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid is largely unchanged. This version of Chevy's large pickup truck comes as a 4-door crew cab that seats up to 6 passengers and has a 5.8-foot bed. It comes in base 1HY and top-line 2HY trim levels. The sole powertrain teams a 6.0-liter V8 engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 332 horsepower total. 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 transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 6,100 pounds. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available. The 4WD system is a full-time setup that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes a low-range gear for off-road use. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Two interior designs are offered. The 1HY has GM's "pure pickup" style while the 2HY uses "luxury inspired" trim. Dual-zone automatic climate control and a wireless cell-phone link are standard on all. 2HY models have leather upholstery, a navigation system, and power-adjustable pedals. A sunroof and rearview camera are optional on the 2HY.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicles 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 half-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider three-quarter- or one-ton models.

Our Best Buys are the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra. New or significantly redesigned models in the class include the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD. The Dodge Ram trucks become just Ram trucks for 2011.