A driving cockpit to improve
While the gauges are nicely positioned and easy to read, and while I was glad that both the steering wheel and pedals are adjustable, the HVAC controls are too small and require too much attention when it's time to manipulate them. Whether you're driving in Quebec or Michigan, cold weather means big gloves -- Chevy designers should know better. Michel pointed out that there's a lot of space left on the dashboard to incorporate bigger controls. I agree.
Likewise, the wiper control stalk is too far from the steering wheel. At least, the wipers feature integrated washers and work effectively. The radio offers decent sound quality. Finally, the big sideview mirrors are well designed and make parking and passing maneuvers easier.
Versatile rear seats
Kudos to GM for the convenient fold-up rear seat system: featuring a 60/40 split, it requires absolutely no efforts to manipulate. I did it with a single hand. Plus, the seats open up to reveal a flat floor; I was able to store multiple suitcases and my brother-in-law's various bags during a recent trip. Once folded in place, the rear seats can comfortably accommodate three adults -- further proof that this pickup truck has been primarily designed as a workhorse.
Efficient powertrain
Under the hood is the famous 5.3L Vortec V8. Our tester came with the FlexFuel option at no cost, meaning that the Silverado could run on E85 (up to 85 percent ethanol). This engine is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission and a 4-wheel drive system with Eaton-designed locking rear differential.
Speaking of which, the electronic transfer case works like a charm and allows you to shift from 2WD to 4WD with a simple twist of the dashboard-mounted rotary dial. You must engage neutral at idle before shifting to "4LO", which is normal. With the kind of snowstorms we had to endure, it goes without saying that the effectiveness of the 4WD system was greatly appreciated.
In normal driving conditions, the Vortec benefits from GM's Active Fuel Management system (formerly known as Displacement on Demand), which helps improve fuel economy. However, only Marc Bouchard, another member of our team, was able to notice a difference, as he drove the Silverado on the highway long enough to feel the system operating. As far as I'm concerned, my road test yielded an average fuel economy rating of 19 L/100 km.
While the gauges are nicely positioned and easy to read, and while I was glad that both the steering wheel and pedals are adjustable, the HVAC controls are too small and require too much attention when it's time to manipulate them. Whether you're driving in Quebec or Michigan, cold weather means big gloves -- Chevy designers should know better. Michel pointed out that there's a lot of space left on the dashboard to incorporate bigger controls. I agree.
Likewise, the wiper control stalk is too far from the steering wheel. At least, the wipers feature integrated washers and work effectively. The radio offers decent sound quality. Finally, the big sideview mirrors are well designed and make parking and passing maneuvers easier.
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| Except for the tiny HVAC controls, the dashboard is comprehensive and easy to use. |
Versatile rear seats
Kudos to GM for the convenient fold-up rear seat system: featuring a 60/40 split, it requires absolutely no efforts to manipulate. I did it with a single hand. Plus, the seats open up to reveal a flat floor; I was able to store multiple suitcases and my brother-in-law's various bags during a recent trip. Once folded in place, the rear seats can comfortably accommodate three adults -- further proof that this pickup truck has been primarily designed as a workhorse.
Efficient powertrain
Under the hood is the famous 5.3L Vortec V8. Our tester came with the FlexFuel option at no cost, meaning that the Silverado could run on E85 (up to 85 percent ethanol). This engine is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission and a 4-wheel drive system with Eaton-designed locking rear differential.
Speaking of which, the electronic transfer case works like a charm and allows you to shift from 2WD to 4WD with a simple twist of the dashboard-mounted rotary dial. You must engage neutral at idle before shifting to "4LO", which is normal. With the kind of snowstorms we had to endure, it goes without saying that the effectiveness of the 4WD system was greatly appreciated.
In normal driving conditions, the Vortec benefits from GM's Active Fuel Management system (formerly known as Displacement on Demand), which helps improve fuel economy. However, only Marc Bouchard, another member of our team, was able to notice a difference, as he drove the Silverado on the highway long enough to feel the system operating. As far as I'm concerned, my road test yielded an average fuel economy rating of 19 L/100 km.
 |
| The 5.3L Vortec V8 FlexFuel (optional) can run on E85. |