2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　The Silverado gets a makeover this year that includes a new front fascia and revised side moldings and taillights. Top-of-the-line models get power-folding heated mirrors with puddle lamps and turn signal indicators. On the inside, the Silverado is the first full-size pickup to offer a Bose stereo system and XM Satellite Radio. The instrument panel and center console have been redesigned, and Chevrolet has added new seats, a more comprehensive driver information center and a dual-zone climate control system. For increased safety, Silverados now feature a standard front-passenger-sensing system and dual-stage airbags. On the hardware side, all 4.3-liter V6-equipped Silverados and California-emission V8s are now ULEV-certified, while electronic throttle control is now standard on all V8 engines. The Autotrac four-wheel-drive system has been modified for less intrusiveness at low speeds, and the brake system received upgrades that provide better pedal feel and improved overall performance.

　　

zzdcar says

　　Powerful drivetrains, a revamped new look and unique options make the Silverado a pickup worth considering, but Ford’s new F-150 has it beat when it comes to interior design and overall refinement.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2dr Regular Cab Rwd SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$234/mo  for Silverado 1500 Base

　　Silverado 1500 Base

　　2dr Regular Cab Rwd SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $18,950 MSRP2dr Regular Cab Rwd LB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $19,250 MSRP2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $22,050 MSRP2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $22,350 MSRP4dr Extended Cab Rwd SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A) - $23,700 MSRP4dr Extended Cab Rwd LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $25,495 MSRP4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A) - $27,400 MSRP4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $28,500 MSRP2dr Regular Cab LS Rwd SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $22,500 MSRP2dr Regular Cab LS Rwd LB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $22,800 MSRP2dr Regular Cab LS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $25,550 MSRP2dr Regular Cab LS 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) - $25,850 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LS Rwd SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A) - $26,155 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LS Rwd LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $27,950 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LS 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A) - $29,750 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LS 4WD LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $30,850 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LT Rwd SB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $32,060 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LT Rwd LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $32,360 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LT 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $35,070 MSRP4dr Extended Cab LT 4WD LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A) - $35,370 MSRP4dr Extended Cab SS AWD SB (6.0L 8cyl 4A) (Most Popular) - $39,205 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Introduction: Chevrolet's modern fullsize pickup has been around in one form or another since the early '60s. Now into its sixth generation, the Silverado, as it's now called, boasts classic styling and some of the most powerful drivetrains available anywhere. A perennial competitor to the fullsize offerings from Ford and Dodge, Chevrolet typically finishes a close second in sales, mostly due to the fact that it shares customers with the almost identically equipped GMC Sierra. Last year, however, combined sales of the two trucks outdid the F Series.

　　Often first to market with unique innovations, the 2003 Silverado continues that tradition with the expanded availability of the Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system and XM satellite radio capability. Chevy trucks also offer the OnStar communications system that provides the convenience of 24-hour on-call assistance for everything from tow truck calls to dinner reservations. The Vortec V8 engines are known for their neck-snapping power and surprisingly good mileage when driven with a soft foot. Combine this with new styling on the outside and additional features on the inside, and the Silverado presents a compelling package for anyone in the market for a well-rounded fullsize pickup.

　　Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options: Two cab styles are available in three different trim levels. Regular cabs can be outfitted with Base or LS trim, while extended cabs come in Base, LS or LT. Base Silverados are configured as to be used as work trucks, while the mid-grade LS trim is the most popular. It includes upgrades like cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, cruise control, a CD player, remote keyless entry and chrome exterior trim. LT trucks add aluminum wheels, leather upholstery, the OnStar communications system and premium audio. Unique to the Silverado in the big pickup market is the availability of a lightweight composite "Protec" cargo box on extended-cab 4X4s with the Z71 option. Also available is the Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system, which gives the Silverado unmatched stability while towing, as well as a significantly reduced turning circle.

　　Powertrains and Performance: Several engine choices are available for the Silverado, ranging from a 200-hp 4.3-liter V6 to a 285-hp 5.3-liter V8. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on regular cabs. Optional on that model (standard on extended cabs) is a four-speed automatic, which features a tow-haul mode that improves shifting performance under heavy loads. The maximum towing capacity with the 5.3-liter V8 is 8,400 pounds (8,600 pounds on Quadrasteer-equipped models). Four-wheel drive is available on all models, although only LS and LT trim levels can be ordered with the optional Autotrac push-button transfer case. Safety: For 2003, the GMC has added dual-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger along with a passenger-seat sensor system. The dual-stage airbags deploy with varying levels of force depending on the crash severity, while the passenger sensor will deactivate the passenger-side airbag if it detects the presence of a child. All Silverados include four-wheel ABS brakes as standard equipment. The Silverado received a rating of "Marginal" (third lowest out of four possible rankings) in the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety offset crash test. Interior Design and Special Features: Inside, Silverado buyers will find a logically laid-out interior, with an easy-to-use dual-zone climate control system and clear, uncluttered gauges. Material quality is unimpressive, and the build quality even less so. The cabin is roomy, particularly on extended cab models. Standard rear doors on the extended cab make entry and exit to the rear bench seat easy, and if front passengers are willing to sacrifice a bit of legroom, the back of the extended cab is quite comfortable. The Silverado is also the first fullsize pickup to offer an optional Bose audio system and XM Satellite Radio.

　　Driving Impressions: The Silverado is comfortable enough to be a daily driver, yet it's still powerful enough to use as a dedicated work truck. Acceleration is swift, especially with either of the Vortec V8s, and the automatic transmission shifts with authority. The steering feels vague on center, but it's light and precise enough for easy maneuvering. Four-wheel disc brakes deliver plenty of power, but can be skittish on loose surfaces. A combination of torsion bars up front and leaf springs in the rear give the Silverado a comfortable, if not refined ride in most situations.

　　

2003 Silverado 1500 Highlights

Type: Regular CabExtended CabSSExtended Cab

　　Trim: BaseLSLTSSBase

　　

Base MSRP	$23,700
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	16 MPG
Cost to Drive	$234/month
Seating	6 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	8,100 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles