General Motors is working overtime to ready the next generation of its full-size pickups ahead of schedule, but that hasn't stopped the firm from juicing up the two existing models for 2006.
So there will be upgrades and changes for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra starting this fall, some of which are common to both brands and some of which are unique to each brand.
Common to both brands for 2006 is of course the arrival of a revised diesel powertrain in the Heavy Duty models, which we covered extensively
in a separate story some days back. Briefly, the Duramax 6600 gets more power and is attached to a slick new automatic transmission, which helps to improve its fuel economy.
Also new for both Sierra and Silverado this year is a VortecMAX Performance Package with enhanced towing capability available on 2WD and 4WD Extended Cab and Crew Cab models.
The package includes a high-output Vortec 6000 V-8 rated at 345 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, 17-inch wheels, a heavy-duty trailering package, new 9.5-inch rear axle (with 4:10 axle ratio), automatic locking differential, VortecMAX door badging and engine cover, and a four-speed automatic super duty transmission.
The package enables a 10,000-pound towing capacity on the extended cab model and up to 9,900 pounds with the Crew Cab.
The light-hybrid versions of both pickups are back for 2006, and they will now be available across the country. These models will be particularly appealing to anyone who wants to be able to power portable equipment with juice created by the hybrid's electric motor.
In body styles, both Sierra and Silverado will also now get Extended Cab short-box models in 2WD and 4WD with the Vortec 5300 V-8. That comes only on the LT trim in Silverado, but on the Sierra it can also be had with optional 20-inch wheels.
People who tow things will also be glad to hear that both models have improved extendable outside camper mirrors.
On the electronics front in both models, GM has managed to create a single antenna for the OnStar safety and security system and the upcoming XM satellite radio service. The OnStar Plus package includes OnStar, XM radio and steering wheel stereo controls can be had on the Silverado.
Changes or upgrades that are unique to the Chevrolet Silverado include cosmetic and packaging details.
There's a new light-duty front-end design with a power dome hood on all 2006 Silverado 1500, 1500HD and 2500HD models, for example. There's a revised grille design as well as the new, power dome hood. A prominent gold bowtie is centered on a new, dual-port grille design, while the power dome hood -- which is a design borrowed from Silverado 3500 models -- conveys strength. The new front end is said to have a refined look, with a body-color bumper top cap.
So there will be upgrades and changes for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra starting this fall, some of which are common to both brands and some of which are unique to each brand.
Common to both brands for 2006 is of course the arrival of a revised diesel powertrain in the Heavy Duty models, which we covered extensively
 |
| 2006 GMC Sierra Vortec Max badge (photo: General Motors) |
Also new for both Sierra and Silverado this year is a VortecMAX Performance Package with enhanced towing capability available on 2WD and 4WD Extended Cab and Crew Cab models.
The package includes a high-output Vortec 6000 V-8 rated at 345 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, 17-inch wheels, a heavy-duty trailering package, new 9.5-inch rear axle (with 4:10 axle ratio), automatic locking differential, VortecMAX door badging and engine cover, and a four-speed automatic super duty transmission.
The package enables a 10,000-pound towing capacity on the extended cab model and up to 9,900 pounds with the Crew Cab.
The light-hybrid versions of both pickups are back for 2006, and they will now be available across the country. These models will be particularly appealing to anyone who wants to be able to power portable equipment with juice created by the hybrid's electric motor.
 |
| 2006 GMC Sierra optional 20-inch wheels (photo: General Motors) |
People who tow things will also be glad to hear that both models have improved extendable outside camper mirrors.
On the electronics front in both models, GM has managed to create a single antenna for the OnStar safety and security system and the upcoming XM satellite radio service. The OnStar Plus package includes OnStar, XM radio and steering wheel stereo controls can be had on the Silverado.
Changes or upgrades that are unique to the Chevrolet Silverado include cosmetic and packaging details.
 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 Extended cab (photo: General Motors) |