Big-Time Launch

GM's upcoming full-size pickups arguably the company's most important new vehicles in years

AutoWeek | Published 07/31/06, 5:42 pm et

General Motors is introducing its next-generation full size pickup trucks, the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, two trucks that could help lead the General out of its financial doldrums.

GM says the trucks have been redesigned from top to bottom: They have new exterior and interior designs, new engines and new chassis.

The Silverado and Sierra are offered with three cab styles, three cargo box lengths and several suspensions setups. GM hopes the range gives customers more choice when trying to suit their needs, particularly with the heavy duty models.

The Silverado and Sierra light-duty models will arrive in the fourth quarter of 2006. Sierra Denali and Silverado and Sierra heavy duty models will be available in the first quarter of 2007. The heavy duty trucks offer more powerful gas and diesel engines.

Silverado LTZ interior

The new pickups are sleeker and more aerodynamic, including a 57-degree windshield angle designed to reduce wind noise and improve fuel economy. Tolerances between panels are greatly reduced - including a 50-percent reduction in the space between the cab and cargo box.

In addition to the trucks' three cab designs (regular, extended and crew cab), there are three cargo box lengths, including short (5 foot 8 inches), standard (6 foot 6 inches) and long (8 foot). The pickup boxes have been redesigned with enhanced versatility, increased strength and greater capacity. A one-piece wheelhouse and inner box side adds strength and smoother, more integrated appearance. The boxes are 1.18 inches (30 mm) deeper in the front and 1.57 inches (40 mm) deeper at the rear, with stronger inner walls that offer improved performance when fitted with ladder racks, tool boxes and other accessories. New tailgate designs include locks and torque-rod assist for easier operation. A standard end cap on each tailgate features an integrated spoiler lip that enhances aerodynamics.

GMC Sierra SLE extended cab

A new cargo-management system is also available: Three rails that run the length of the box sides and the forward box wall are secured with high-strength anchors and, unlike competitors' systems, incorporate upper and lower tracks. Four adjustable tie-down brackets are included with each system and can be located anywhere on the tracks, each rated for a load point of 500 pounds.

The interiors are designed to be quieter and more spacious and refined. Legroom, headroom and hip room have increased. The recline angle and fore/aft travel of the front seat has been increased and power adjustable pedals are available.

Silverado LT interior

The fourth generation of the legendary small-block is the power behind GM's all-new full-size trucks. Horsepower is up, torque is up, and the pickups will have Active Fuel Management (AFM) and variable valve timing (VVT). A FlexFuel engine is available. GM says highway fuel economy for models equipped with the 5.3L V8 now are estimated at more than 20 mpg for both 2WD and 4WD models. Engines range in size from the 4.3-liter, 195 hp V6, to the 6.0-liter, 367 hp V8.

Edited July 31, 200619 yr by HarleyEarl

Except for the rub strip, I love it! If the rub strip didn't have a dual depth to it I would cosign on it.

It looks like Autoweek let the cat out of the bag a little early, no?

You can get NAV in the "Work Truck" interior? Wow, impressive.

Both interiors look very good, though the one that's just from the Tahoe is my preference.

It looks like MT was wrong with the power numbers, the 6.0L has 367HP.

I'd say at this point I like the Sierra better, but the Silverado definetly looks more macho and may please truck buyers more.

Please direct all further posts to this thread:

2007 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra - Press Release & Images

Thank you!