2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

NEW FOR 2015:

- New eight-speed automatic for 6.2-litre V8 engine.

- Wider rear track and wider tires for improved stability.

- LS trim level replaces 2WT.

- Additional towing capacity for optional trailering package to maximum of 12,000 lbs

- MyLink adds text message capability with Siri Eyes Free; extra USB ports for LT models with bench seat.

- 4G LTE and on-board WiFi included with OnStar.

- New optional trailering mirrors with back-up lighting.

- Argent grille added to LTZ models with Z71 package (2LZ).

- Spray-on bedliner offered on all models (standard on High Country).

- New colours: Rain Forest, Deep Ocean Blue, Sunrise, and Pewter.

Chevrolet’s Silverado has made quite the impression in its initial year on sale. Not only has it established itself as a solid work truck and a comfortable daily driver, it’s won its fair share of awards too, including the title of 2014 North American Truck of the Year. For 2015, and in advance of the aluminum-bodied Ford F-150, Chevrolet has given the Silverado a handful of updates to keep it fresh.

While Chevy hasn’t added any more aluminum to the Silverado’s bodywork, it has added an eight-speed automatic, which is a first for the half-ton truck segment. Unfortunately it’s limited only to the 6.2-litre V8 engine, but we expect it to be paired with other engines down the road. Also improved is the Silverado’s max towing ability – it still sits at an impressive 12,000 lbs when properly equipped despite the new SAE towing standards.

While the Silverado already features GM’s latest infotainment systems, 2015 Silverados get Siri Eyes Free compatibility and models with OnStar have built-in wi-fi with 4G LTE internet. It’s an added high-tech touch to a cabin that’s nicely appointed and library-quiet on the move.

The Silverado is available with three engines that feature direct injection and cylinder deactivation. Most models come standard with a 285-hp, 305 lb-ft of torque 4.3-litre V6, with LTZ and High Country trims receiving a 355-hp, 383 lb-ft of torque 5.3-litre V8 as standard. The aforementioned 6.2-litre V8 is optional on the LTZ and High Country. Buyers can choose between two and four-wheel drive.

The Silverado is available in four trims: WT (Work Truck), LS, LT (1LT, 2LT), and LTZ (1LZ, 2LZ), and High Country. Regular Cab models feature either a 6’6” box or an 8’ box. Double Cab models receive a 6’6” box, while Crew Cabs can be had with either a 5’8” short box, or a 6’6” box. Note that LTZ and High Country are only available with the Crew Cab configuration.

WT includes 17-inch painted steel wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, vinyl floor, trip computer with 3.5-inch monochrome display, rear bumper with integrated step, four cargo box tie downs, black door handles, solar tinted glass, cab-mounted cargo area lamps, black manual folding mirrors, locking tailgate, power locks, manual dimming rear mirror, three 12-volt power outlets, tilt steering column, power windows, 40/20/40 split front bench with manual adjustment, 60/40 split folding rear bench, vinyl upholstery, four-speaker audio system (six with Double and Crew Cab), 4.2-inch display audio system with AM/FM/USB/SD card and aux-in jack. 4X4 models add floor-mounted lever-operated two-speed part time transfer case.

LS adds OnStar with 4G LTE internet, Wi-Fi hot spot, chrome front and rear bumper, tinted rear glass, chrome grille with dark mesh insert, power exterior mirrors with black caps, 17-inch painted steel wheels with stainless cladding, remote keyless entry, 4.2-inch display audio system with MyLink, Bluetooth, and satellite radio.

1LT builds on 2WT and adds two-speed transfer case with electronic control, chrome mesh grille insert, EZ Lift and Lower tailgate, wheel liners, 17-inch polished aluminum wheels, carpeted floor with rubber floor mats, 4.2-inch instrument cluster display for trip computer, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control, illuminated vanity mirrors, cloth upholstery, driver’s side manual lumbar support, and a six-speaker audio system (regular cab).

2LT adds high-capacity air cleaner, Rancho monotube shocks, high-capacity engine, air filter, hill descent control, skid plates, brushed metal door sill plates, unique interior trim plates, unique front lower bumper appearance and grille design, tailering equipment, and fog lights.

1LZ builds on the 1LT and adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, alarm, auxiliary transmission cooler, standard 5.3-litre EcoTec3 V8, remote vehicle starter, projector beam headlamps, power folding heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, reverse camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear defroster, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, 110-volt power outlet, tilt and telescoping steering column, garage door opener, power sliding rear window, 10-way power adjustable front bench including power lumbar support, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8.0-inch display audio system with MyLink apps.

2LZ adds high-capacity air cleaner, Rancho monotube shocks, high-capacity engine, air filter, hill descent control, skid plates, brushed metal door sill plates, unique interior trim plates, unique front lower bumper appearance and grille design, trailering equipment, fog lights, and chrome grille with argent insert.

High Country builds on the 1LZ and adds 20-inch chrome wheels, navigation, carpeted floor mats, four movable upper bed tie downs, centre floor console, heated and ventilated seats, 12-way power front seats with driver memory, front and rear park assist, seven-speaker Bose premium audio, body coloured bumpers, unique chrome grille, black recovery hooks, polished exhaust tip, bright sill plates, spray-in bedliner and chrome assist steps.