Used Chevy Silverado Dealership

A History of the Silverado

From simple trim level to a legendary nameplate, the Silverado occupies a prominent spot in Chevrolet’s storied history. It all started in 1975 when Chevy added a Silverado trim to the C/K full-size truck lineup. It wasn’t until 1999 that the automaker shifted its strategy, retiring the C/K series and replacing it with the Silverado. Nowadays, the Silverado pickup is a flagship model in the Chevrolet lineup.

The fourth-generation Silverado, starting in 2019, is poised to once again dominate the full-size pickup category as it has since its original launch date. In its first year, the first generation Silverado capitalized on capability, with only a regular cab and an extended cab body style offered. Chevy added a crew cab in 2004, a cab style that has since dominated.

The second generation Silverado (2007 - 2013) included big technology upgrades, such as the first touchscreen and standard Bluetooth connectivity. Chevy offered an array of engine options, including a 4.3-liter V6 and four different V8 options. At the tail end of generation three, Chevy began incorporating active safety technologies, but it wasn’t until the new generation arrived that driver-assist systems became more widely available.

Chevy’s third-generation Silverado (2014 - 2019) featured the first series of fuel-efficient EcoTec3 engines. These powertrains capitalized on fuel economy while simultaneously increasing horsepower. Another key evolution was Chevy’s launch of the luxury High Country trim. With plush leather seating and high-end finishes, the High Country ushered in a new type of pickup truck buyer: the luxury seeker. As buyers grew weary of SUVs, they began flocking to the pickup truck category for well-equipped luxury crew cab models.

The Half-Ton Silverado 1500

The Silverado 1500 light-duty truck lineup includes an affordable Work Truck, a luxurious High Country, and just about everything in-between, including the off-road-ready LT Trail Boss. Buyers can select from a long list of comfort and convenience features, including the most advanced trailering technology in the segment. Over the years since its debut in 1999, the half-ton Silverado 1500 has received several upgrades, both cosmetic and mechanical, but what stayed consistent was its legendary durability. Third-generation Silverados included one of several Vortec gas-powered engines ranging from a 4.3-liter V6 to a massive 6.2-liter V8. In the transition to generation four, Chevy swapped out the Vortec series for the lightweight EcoTec engine series that offered a massive boost in output without sacrificing fuel economy.

Pickup trucks are designed for hard work, which is why the available six-function Multi-Flex Tailgate is a welcome addition. It consists of a traditional primary gate and an inner gate, and together, the system converts into a short or full-width bed entry step, a short or long cargo stop, a work surface, and (of course) as a primary tailgate. The truck bed also features 12 standard tie-downs.

With multiple trims that range from basic work trucks to high-end luxury rigs, the Silverado sets the standard for variety in the full-size truck segment. The lineup also caters to serious off-roaders, with the iconic Z71 trim appearing in multiple model years, offering trail-ready equipment like skid plates, larger all-terrain tires, and tow hooks. Whatever flavor pickup you’re seeking, you’ll find it in the diverse Silverado lineup.

The Heavy Duty Silverado 2500 and 3500

Sometimes a light-duty truck just can’t get the job done. That’s when it’s time to move up in size to a 3/4 ton Silverado 2500 or a one-ton 3500. Choosing an HD truck gets you big gains in capability. The Silverado HD lineup includes trucks that can tow massive gooseneck trailers and a substantial amount of payload. A variety of powerful engines unlock the torque required to get tough jobs done right.

Most Silverado HD model years offered buyers the choice of two different engines: a gas-powered V8 or a Duramax diesel. Torque is the name of the game with a heavy-duty pickup, and those looking for the maximum possible torque output should consider going diesel. 2011 - 2014 model year 2500HD and 3500HD Silverados include an optional 6.6-liter Duramax engine that produces 765 lb-ft of torque. Newer 2017 - 2019 models upped the torque rating to a massive 910 lb-ft.

If you’re looking for a newer model year, the third generation is a good place to start. It includes model years 2014 - 2018, which is a phase in the Silverado’s evolution that focused on luxury and comfortable cabin amenities. The premium High Country trim joined the 2500HD and 3500HD trim lineup, offering buyers a new take on commercial-grade pickup truck ownership. Options like touchscreens, leather seating, heated steering wheels, and parking sensors all found their way to Chevy’s mightiest trucks.