Chevrolet’s trademark pickup is a longtime favorite and even comes in hybrid.
When U.S. News & World Report named the Chevrolet Silverado the “Best for the Money” in its 2009 full-size pickup class, it’s hard to say that anyone in the automotive world was surprised. With years and years of praise under its hood, Silverado is a trusted name when it comes to trucks.
The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado lineup starts with the reliable 1500 model, adding an XFE (Xtra Fuel Economy) model that gets an estimated 21 mpg highway. Available with a 4.3-liter V6, a 4.8-liter V8, two kinds of 5.3-liter V8s and a 6.2-liter V8, the Silverado 1500 gives you plenty of pulling options. Jalopnik praises all of the truck’s engines. “[It] pulls like a Clydesdale. The new powertrain puts the Silverado right back on top of the game…without even breaking a sweat.” Able to tow a maximum of 10,500 pounds on or off the road, the 1500 (available in both two- and four-wheel drive) is trustworthy on sand, sleet and snow. With a modest price tag of $20,370 (MSRP), the Silverado is worth every cent and likely to last a lifetime.
The 2009 Silverado also comes in 2500 and 3500 HD (heavy duty) models, which earned the number one spot on U.S. News’ “Heavy Duty Pickup” rankings. Edmunds proclaims that the Silverado HD “possesses the heavy-duty work truck capabilities required in its class, but its refined cabin, comfy ride and reassuring handling make it a top choice.” The 2500 and 3500 are available in WT, LT and high-end LTZ trims. Standard is either a 6.0-liter V8 engine paired with a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission or a 6.6-liter V8 Duramax Diesel engine complemented by an Allison 1000 series six-speed automatic transmission. HD Silverados also have a two- or four-wheel drive option, as well as a regular, extended or crew cab availability. Starting at $27,590 (MSRP) for the 2500 HD and $31,635 for the 3500, the price is right for getting what the Orlando Sentinel calls a “solid partner for work, play or just traveling.”
First introduced for the 2005 model year and improved further for 2009 is the Silverado Hybrid. It’s uncommon to find such a distinguished pickup that boasts, as NewCarTestDrive.com writes, “two-mode hybrid powertrain that aids propulsion, turns off the engine at stops and can even power the truck on the electric motors alone.” The Silverado Hybrid can still pull up to 6,100 pounds and features a deeper front air dam and a three-segment hard tonneau cover to reduce drag.

New for 2009 are interior perks such as a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity and satellite traffic information plus overall improved comfort. Consumer Guide writes that “cabin materials and assembly are worthy of some cars,” while the Orlando Sentinel notes that “a rear seat large enough for three adults sits low enough to make ingress possible without pole-vaulting into the seat.” Controls are clear and within reach. As for in-cab cargo space, the Silverado boasts a split seat that folds and multiple cab options that will make sure you have enough room for just about anything.
As usual, the Silverado earned rave reviews during its 2009 safety tests. Achieving five stars for driver and front passenger protection in front-impact crashes and top scores for front- and rear-seat protection in side crashes, this truck is well equipped. Also, 2WD and 4WD models earned four-star rollover ratings and come standard with antilock brakes, StabiliTrak and front and side airbags. More kudos as the Silverado earned a nine out of 10 score for reliability from J.D. Power and Associates.
Powerful, protective and a long-running champ in the truck world, the Chevy Silverado is there when you need heavy-duty towing, as well as when you need a comfortable, capable transport for the whole family. Each year, the Silverado debuts to countless accolades and has earned such titles as Car and Driver’s “Best Pickup,” Motor Trend’s “Truck of the Year” and Motor Week’s “Driver’s Choice.” Come in and take a test drive – we’re sure you’ll understand.

























