Teresa’s View
OK people. Here it is. Straight from the Red Carpet, this year’s Motor Trend Truck of the Year— cue the music — the Chevy Silverado.
The completely redesigned Silverado out-shined other pickup trucks that also underwent significant makeovers for the 2007 season, including the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado, Cadillac Escalade EXT, Ford Explorer Sport Trac and GMC Sierra.
Powered by a choice of five engines, the new Silverado delivers the kind of bravado we’ve come to expect from an American icon. The smallest of the engine offerings is a 195-horsepower 4.3-liter V-6. However, the folks at Chevy believe most buyers will opt for one of the three V-8 engines. The 5.3-liter version is offered in both gasoline or flex-fuel versions. The gas engine features Active Fuel Management, a system that shuts down half of the cylinders during freeway driving for greater fuel efficiency. An upcoming SS performance model is said to get the same 400-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 found in the Cadillac Escalade.
All engines are equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Built on an all-new platform, the 2007 Silverado is smoother and better handling than its predecessor.
Like all trucks, it comes in a seemingly endless number of variations. The Silverado is offered in three trim levels — the basic Work Truck, middle-of-the-road LT, and the luxurious LTZ. Each is available in either rear- or all-wheel drive. There are five suspension packages to choose from, including one for maximum trailering capability; three cab configurations — regular, extended and crew cab; and three box lengths — short (5 foot-8 inches) standard (6 foot-6 inches) and long (8 feet).
The new exterior styling is all-American truck — straightforward with nothing too fancy. Inside, rugged and durable utility meets refined and comfortable gentility. Fit and finish is noticeably improved over last year’s model. Flush fits replace the previous generation’s disturbing body gaps. The end result is a quality, tailored feel.
Luxury options dress up the Silverado beyond anything a Chevy truck owner has previously experienced. Just be sure to have that wallet ready. Uptown accessories aren’t cheap.
One last warning: At 5 foot 5 inches, climbing in and out of this tall truck was a challenge for me. If you’re a skirt-wearing girl, practice your lady-like mounts and dismounts or you’ll run the risk of flashing your drawers.
What Is It?: The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pick up truck.
The Back Seat: The power rear windows rolled down all the way on our extended cab tester and the double-jointed rear doors open a full 170 degrees for ease of loading — be sure the kids are careful opening the doors in a crowded parking lot. Bonus: The crew cab is available with an optional DVD entertainment system.
Cheat Sheet: Chevy is a longtime member of the General Motors family.
So, Where Are Ya From?: The Silverado is built in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.