2023 Silverado sets new standards

RENOWNED AS A POWERFUL WORKHORSE BUT WITH THE RUGGED GOOD LOOKS THAT EASILY TURN HEADS IN URBAN SETTINGS, THE NEW CHEVROLET SILVERADO HAS LAUNCHED A NEW STANDARD WITH ITS 2023 MODEL

The Chevrolet Silverado has a storied history as one of the most popular full-size pickup trucks due to its reliability, durability, and versatility as well as being able to go from rugged, off-road situations to urban scenarios without a problem. Since its introduction in 1998, the Silverado has undergone significant technical and mechanical innovations that have contributed to its widespread popularity. Things such as advanced powertrain options, a wide range of engine choices — from V6 and V8 gasoline engines to diesel engines — advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation, each iteration has made the Silverado one to watch.

This year is no different: GM Specialty Vehicles has unveiled the new Model Year 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and it promises to be a game-changer. With significant enhancements to the interior, exterior on-road smoothness and off-road capability.

“The MY23 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will help people in their quest to live big, whether towing their caravan or boat, off-roading, or simply getting from A to B in a premium full-size truck,” said Greg Rowe, director of GM specialty vehicles.

The highlight of the MY23 Silverado 1500 lineup is undoubtedly the first-ever ZR2. This off-road beast offers unparalleled capability for those who crave adventure off the beaten track, complemented by the suppleness and refinement of a premium full-size truck for a comfortable journey to the destination.

The ZR2 has been built for off-road enthusiasts and comes with a range of features that make it a formidable off-road machine. Its suspension package includes a high-performance lifted suspension and Multimatic DSSV dampers, which can increase maximum front and rear suspension travel by using three separate spool valves to control damping, and three connected chambers for fluid flow. This allows for improved off-road capability and a more comfortable ride on uneven terrain.

The ZR2 also comes with front and rear electronic locking differentials (E-Lockers), which can be engaged for additional traction in off-road situations such as mud, snow, steep hills, and uneven terrain. This provides maximum traction with minimal effort, ensuring that the ZR2 can tackle any terrain with confidence.

Another notable feature of the ZR2 is the twospeed transfer case with push-button controls with Four-Low for low-speed off-road capabilities.

Another exciting development is the Terrain driving mode with ‘One Pedal Driving’ experience. This allows for precise control through the use of the accelerator pedal to handle tough terrain. The Silverado ZR2 can be brought to a complete stop by simply lifting off the accelerator pedal for those instances when precision stopping and starting is necessary. This driving mode is similar to what can be found in fully electric cars and has some fuel efficiency gains as well as minimising brake usage and corresponding wear and tear.

Throughout its history, the Silverado’s rugged, tough good looks have been recognised as definitive head-turners, so much so that this mean machine has featured in a smattering of films. From The Day the Earth Stood Still through to Captain America, and even a Disney role, this US staple has serious star power and the MY23 is no different.

The exterior of the MY23 Silverado 1500 features a redesigned front fascia with new daytime running lights, and an interior that has been fully redesigned with a sweeping horizontal instrument panel that creates a more spacious and premium feel. The centrepiece is a 13.4-inch diagonal colour touchscreen, accompanied by a new 12.3-inch diagonal configurable digital instrument cluster, and an electronic transmission shift control now located on the centre console.

Under the hood, both the LTZ Premium and the ZR2 come with the powerful 6.2-litre EcoTech3 V8 engine, the most potent naturally aspirated V8 engine in its class with 313kW of power and 624Nm of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission provides seamless and smooth gear transitions for effortless towing.

Safety is a top priority in the MY23 Silverado 1500, with both models equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technology and driver assistance features. Standard features include rear-cross traffic alert, a StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control, and forward collision alert with low-speed automatic emergency braking, among others.

“The new MY23 Chevrolet Silverado will cement itself as the benchmark for those who want to live big as they tour and tow around the country in comfort and style, as well as adventure off-road in the absolute best GMSV has to offer,” said Greg Rowe.

The MY23 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium and ZR2 are available in nine different exterior colours and, in New Zealand, the LTZ Premium has a recommended retail price of $144,000, while the ZR2 starts from $149,000.