Test Drive: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

摘要

As contractors are shaking loose from the recession, General Motors is filling dealers' lots with redesigned, light-duty pickups that are arguably its best ever, offering up to 24 miles per gallon on the highway, a 12,000-lb towing capacity and a payload rating of 2,108 lb. With enhanced details, including a standard two-year, 24,000-mile free maintenance plan, GM's 36-month residual values are estimated to rise five to 10 percentage points higher than outgoing 2013 models, according to research firm ALG. ENR recently spent a week test-driving Chevrolet's 2014 Silverado 1500, which plays stable mate to the half-ton GMC Sierra. The rear-wheel-drive, crew-cab model was equipped with a 5.3-liter V-8, 18-in. alloy wheels, interior convenience package and spray-in bedliner, bringing the sticker price to $40,905. Buyers familiar with Chevy trucks know the 5.3-liter V-8; however, it-and all Silverado engines-are redesigned for 2014. It now features aluminum construction, variable valve timing and direct injection.