2007 Chevrolet
Silverado
All-new Truck Lineup is
Coming This Fall
August 30, 2006
To remain leader one must continually adapt to a
changing environment. History has shown that lethargy to be the bane
of the automotive world. Nearing eight years since its last overhaul,
the Silverado looks tired and ready for replacement. Both foreign and
domestic competition have posed a formidable challenge, encroaching
upon the giant from nearly every side. At the same time, the market
has become more segmented. General consumers demand better
performance, fuel-efficiency, quality and safety. In addressing these
issues, GM has designed its new full-size truck platform with the
stability and versatility required to serve its broad market area.
Silverado LT
Regular Cab
Silverado LT
Regular Cab |
Silverado LT Z71
Crew Cab
Silverado LT Z71
Crew Cab
|
Silverado LTZ
Extended Cab
Silverado LTZ
Extended Cab
|
The new Silverado lineup encompasses three cab
styles, three bed lengths, two distinct interior designs, five engine
sizes and five suspension choices. In addition to new choices, the
Silverado also has been refined from top to bottom in an attempt to
keep GM the best-selling full-size truck.
To begin, the Silverado has taken on a
functional appearance. Rather than appoint the truck with swooping
lines or unnecessary curves, the new shape reflects the size, form and
function of a full-size truck. The bulging fenders contain the widest
track in the industry, a full 3.2-inches wider in front than the
previous generation. Its broad face, bold lines and confident stance
reflect the strength and reliability that lies beneath.
Various refinements include a more steeply raked
windshield for a lower drag coefficient (0.43 Cd), and reduced body
panel gaps, including a bed to cab gap that has been decreased by over
50-percent. The doors now fully extend down and wrap over the rocker
panels for a smooth, seamless appearance.
Inside the Silverado you will find two new
interior designs, with distinct dash styling, instrument panels, seats
and consoles. The WT and LT trim levels feature a cockpit-style
instrument panel, with gauges and controls set high and within easy
reach of the driver. Pull handles and release levers are larger, and
on the passenger side there are two separate glove boxes. The upscale
LTZ contains a luxury-styled interior, with instruments set lower and
closer to the driver, woodgrain trim, and a lower center stack that
houses radio and climate controls.
Silverado LT
Dash Board |
Silverado LTZ
Dash Board |
Interior room has been increased in almost every
dimension, with longer seat travel and increased front seat recline
angles. New for the extended cab are rear doors that swing a complete
170-degrees for easy access, as well as windows that are fully
retractable. The rear seats are a 60-40 split design, and fold
stadium-style for maximum utility and an open load floor.
Underneath the new body lies a redesigned frame and suspension.
The new frame is stronger and stiffer and features
fully boxed frame rails with a hydroformed front section. The front
employs a new coil over
shock front suspension, as well as a new rack and pinion steering
system. The rear suspension features new shocks, angled outboard and
positioned more upright to better control axle and vehicle motion.
The new Silverado is host to a bevy of
suspension choices. They range from the standard Z83, to the upgraded
Z85 for added towing capabilities, NHT for maximum towing, Z71
off-road package on both 2WD and 4WD, as well as a Z60 street
performance suspension with 20-inch wheels.
Powertrain choices range from a 195-hp 4.3L V6
to a 367-hp 6.0L V8. The 5.3L adds Active Fuel Management, which can
shut down half of the cylinders to save on fuel under certain driving
conditions, as well as E85 ethanol capability. When equipped with the
5.3L in 2WD form, the new Silverado is reportedly capable of 16 mpg in
the city, and 22 mpg on the highway.
The new Silverado would not be complete without
its numerous safety enhancements, which include 5-star NCAP safety
ratings for both driver and passenger, dual stage front, and head
curtain side airbags, and rear parking assist. StabiliTrak is now
standard on crew cab models, and optional on extended cabs.
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