Chevrolet Silverado 1500 History

Back in 1998, the Chevrolet Silverado was released as a light duty pickup model based on a GMT 800 platform, which was also used as a Suburban full-size SUV from General Motors. Originally the Silverado was meant to be a replacement for the Chevrolet C/K which had a trim level that was called the Silverado.

First Generation

The first generation of the Chevy Silverado was built with a classic work truck design with options for three different cab styles: regular 2-door, extended 4-door, and a crew cab with four front hinged doors. These models had a few different towing capacities: a half ton, three-quarter ton and one ton, while the heavy-duty or Silverado 1500HD, was built to tow up to 10,300 lbs. and it could carry a 3,129 lb. payload in the bed. The first models had three engine varieties: a 4.3L 195 hp V6, a 4.8L 255 hp V8, and a 5.3L 270 hp V8.

Chevy also introduced a couple of variants in the first generation that included a 2003 high-performance Silverado SS model equipped with a 345 hp 6L V8 and a heavy-duty model between 2000 and 2007. The Silverado 1500 was the first pickup equipped with an automatic transmission with a tow/haul mode.

The Second Generation

Silverado’s second generation appeared on the market from 2007-2013. This generation was redesigned by Chevy with a new front-end design, a rack and pinion steering, and an improved fuel economy. The second generation had five different trim levels available, including a LS level that added features like cruise control and keyless entry. Then they added more engine power with a 4.3L, 4.8L and a 5.3L V6 Vortec. Then Chevy went up a notch or 2 with a 367 hp 6L Vortec 6000 V8 and a 6.2L Vortec 6200 V8, all of the V8 models received a 6-speed transmission, FlexFuel Technology, and an electronic stability control to go along with the new engine configurations. Finally, Chevy gave buyers a choice of two and four-wheel drive on almost all models.

Third Generation

The third generation of Silverado spanned 2014-2018. This generation stood out above the previous ones because these Silverados were quieter, smoother, and more powerful. These models gave the buyers a new electric steering assist system that made for simpler steering effort, refined suspension and improved handling and response. This generation stepped up the power once again with engine options like the 4.3L V6 that was tweaked from 195 to 285 hp. Customers also had the option for a stronger 420 hp 6.2L V8. These models also included a new powertrain, with four-wheel drive available for all models.

Interior-wise, these models now had plusher seats with OnStar and MyLink touch-screen interface. While the outside received new fascia and grille, full-width bumpers, sculpted fenders, the body had more aluminum.

Fourth Generation

This generation has a more sculpted body, curved edges that flow and creates a more rounded appearance. New frames feature more aluminum-steel alloys to lighten the truck by nearly 500 lbs. The driver’s seat has a centered wheel with easier access to gauges and controls, so it is a more driver-centered cockpit. Chevy provided a greater power boost using 5.3 and 5.2L V8 engines and a 6.2L V8 turbodiesel configuration with a 10-speed transmission and towing capacity of 12,500 lbs.

To find out more, stop by the Premier Clearance Center of Metairie, proudly serving New Orleans, Kenner and Chalmette and see what Silverado models are available for you.