For the sake of additional comparison, I achieved a warm-weather mileage average of just 12L / 100km in an identically-powered Tahoe Hybrid. Conclusion? The Two-Mode system puts owners into the gas-sucking ballpark of a considerably smaller vehicle.
A smooth performer
Despite the nearly constant switching and blending of electric and gasoline power, Silverado Hybrid gives only very minor indications of anything unusual going on.
You may feel a slight squirm or 'lump' in power delivery as the gas engine cuts in and out, and if you've got the radio off, you may hear the electric motors winding up and down. Most passengers mistake this sound for a distant siren. In general though, things operate with remarkable smoothness and no effect on driveability. Just hop in and go.
It's quiet, too. You may find less wind noise in the new Ford F150 at highway speeds, but the Silverado's cabin is serene enough for relaxation when required. Road noise is kept down, and a special exhaust system keeps the engine deeply hushed even when drivers jam the right pedal.
The quiet atmosphere inside is further enhanced by the heavy and solid ride. It makes for comfortable travels over just about anything- though you'll really feel the rear end bouncing about over potholes.
The Cabin
Expect a good step up into the cabin, followed shortly thereafter by great forward visibility. Comfortable seating for up to 6 is available-- provided the massive front armrest / organizer is flipped up into its alternative position as a seatback.
The rear bench flips up as a single unit to accommodate larger objects, though the battery packs are located beneath it, slightly limiting space.
Instruments are clean, bright and easy to read, and you'll find an 'eco' gauge to help keep an eye on the current state of the hybrid system.
Most impressive inside the Silverado? There's storage and a power outlet wherever you need it, alongside plenty of room and a higher-grade feel than the previous generation.
Gripes? The adjoining audio and climate controls light up with different colors at night, and materials selection is nothing to write home about.
Is this the one for you?
Priced around $52,000, Silverado Hybrid is lacking the leather, premium audio, sunroof, navigation and other toys you'll find for this buck in a non-hybrid rig. Choosing one will thus require consultation of your own priorities-- not to mention some pre-purchase math if breaking even on fuel savings is of importance.
Environmentally conscious shoppers requiring the services of a big truck will gravitate towards the Silverado Hybrid undoubtedly. Some day, so might the rest of us. This is definitely a technology we're going to be seeing a lot more of.
photo:Justin Pritchard, Chevrolet
A smooth performer
Despite the nearly constant switching and blending of electric and gasoline power, Silverado Hybrid gives only very minor indications of anything unusual going on.
You may feel a slight squirm or 'lump' in power delivery as the gas engine cuts in and out, and if you've got the radio off, you may hear the electric motors winding up and down. Most passengers mistake this sound for a distant siren. In general though, things operate with remarkable smoothness and no effect on driveability. Just hop in and go.
It's quiet, too. You may find less wind noise in the new Ford F150 at highway speeds, but the Silverado's cabin is serene enough for relaxation when required. Road noise is kept down, and a special exhaust system keeps the engine deeply hushed even when drivers jam the right pedal.
The quiet atmosphere inside is further enhanced by the heavy and solid ride. It makes for comfortable travels over just about anything- though you'll really feel the rear end bouncing about over potholes.
 |
| The Silverado's cabin is serene enough for relaxation when required. |
The Cabin
Expect a good step up into the cabin, followed shortly thereafter by great forward visibility. Comfortable seating for up to 6 is available-- provided the massive front armrest / organizer is flipped up into its alternative position as a seatback.
The rear bench flips up as a single unit to accommodate larger objects, though the battery packs are located beneath it, slightly limiting space.
Instruments are clean, bright and easy to read, and you'll find an 'eco' gauge to help keep an eye on the current state of the hybrid system.
Most impressive inside the Silverado? There's storage and a power outlet wherever you need it, alongside plenty of room and a higher-grade feel than the previous generation.
Gripes? The adjoining audio and climate controls light up with different colors at night, and materials selection is nothing to write home about.
Is this the one for you?
Priced around $52,000, Silverado Hybrid is lacking the leather, premium audio, sunroof, navigation and other toys you'll find for this buck in a non-hybrid rig. Choosing one will thus require consultation of your own priorities-- not to mention some pre-purchase math if breaking even on fuel savings is of importance.
Environmentally conscious shoppers requiring the services of a big truck will gravitate towards the Silverado Hybrid undoubtedly. Some day, so might the rest of us. This is definitely a technology we're going to be seeing a lot more of.
photo:Justin Pritchard, Chevrolet
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