2005 CHEVY SILVERADO: FOR EVERY PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL TRUCK NEED

As General Motors' best selling vehicle, the Chevrolet Silverado has an unequaled reputation for outstanding performance, dependability and capability. Silverado also is known for having one of the broadest model ranges in the entire industry, to meet every personal and professional need in the full-size pickup truck market.

Silverado's extensive range of 1500 and 2500 light duty models is expanded even further for 2005, with the introduction of a gas-electric hybrid version of the 1500 Series Extended Cab for the retail market. Hybrid models are powered by a standard Vortec 5300 V-8 and Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission coupled with the segment's first hybrid propulsion technology, to provide up to 10 percent better fuel economy; 120-volt electrical power with ground fault detection; and unique accessory powering capability.

In addition to the hybrid-powered Silverado, an even more potent 310 horsepower (231 kw) version of GM's Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 is available for 2005 on 4WD Silverado 1500 Extended Cabs with a standard cargo box.

Other functional changes for 2005 include the availability of a power sunroof on all Extended Cab and Crew Cab models. Front-disc, rear-drum anti-lock brakes are now standard on all light duty models except those equipped with GM's innovative Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system.

A new 3.23 rear axle ratio is standard on 2WD models, while a more powerful 145-amp alternator is standard on all models for 2005. (A 160-amp alternator comes with the optional Snow Plow prep package.)

New tire choices for 2005 include P245/70R17-108S all-season blackwall tires as standard on 2WD models, with P245/70R17-108S all-season white-outlined letter tires as an option. P265/70R17 all-season blackwall tires are now standard on 4WD Regular and Extended Cab models, while P265/70R17 all-season white outlined-letter tires are available.

Revised wheel combinations include six-lug painted 17 x 7-inch steel wheels standard on Work Truck Models, and six-lug chrome-styled steel 17 x 7.5-inch wheels on all models except 2WD Extended Cab and 2WD/4WD Crew Cab models.

Dark Blue Metallic is a new color for 2005 across all light and heavy duty models except Silverado SS.

Unmatched power and selection

Within the light duty lineup, Silverado can be ordered in an almost unlimited number of configurations to suit any requirement: Regular, Extended or Crew Cab body styles; standard 6.5-foot (2-m) or extended 8-foot (2.4-m) cargo boxes in either Fleetside or Sportside style; 1500 half-ton or 2500 three-quarter-ton models; and either 2WD or 4WD systems.

An impressive array of Vortec engines is offered: a 4300 4.3 L V-6; 4800 4.8L V-8; two models of the Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8; and the powerful Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8. Engine output ranges from 195 hp (145 kw) all the way up to 330 hp (246 kw).

In addition to the new hybrid version, Silverado can be ordered in several reduced-emissions or alternative-fuel variations. All Silverados with the Vortec 4300 4.3L V-6, and those sold in California with the Vortec 4800 4.8L or Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8, have a robust catalytic converter system that meets Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards. Models equipped with the Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8 come with a dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) or bi-fuel system that can run on CNG or gasoline.

Light-duty Silverado models with the Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 offer an option that enables owners to operate them on varying blends of ethanol and gasoline, up to a maximum of 85 percent ethanol.

Silverado can be equipped to meet any personal requirement or professional demand when it comes to hauling or towing. Payload capacities range from 1,295 pounds (587 kg) all the way to 4,047 pounds (1,836 kg) for 2500 heavy duty models. Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings range from 6,100 pounds (2,767 kg) to 9,200 pounds (4,173 kg) on properly equipped heavy duty versions.

Improved fuel economy

Already best in class in terms of fuel economy, the 2005 Silverados receive four major enhancements that lead to a nearly one-mile-per-gallon fuel economy improvement.

The 2005 model Silverados feature an all-electric cooling system (compared to fan and fan clutch on 2004 models). The all-electric cooling system consists of two 200-watt electric fan packages and an improved dissipation radiator.  The new cooling system provides a number of advantages:

• A reduction in parasitic losses due to disengaged fan speed with a corresponding increase in combined city/highway fuel economy
• A significant improvement in idle A/C performance (driver/passenger comfort) as well as an ability to idle with A/C on for extended periods in very high ambient temperatures 
• A reduction in customer complaints normally attributed to unusual engine noise or transmission noise/delayed shift, which are actually fan noise issues.

A new voltage control system monitors the battery's charge status and controls the vehicle's generator to minimize parasitic voltage loss.

Other changes designed to improve fuel economy include improved sealing of the vehicles' front end. For example, tow hook and fog light openings are now sealed when those items are not ordered on the vehicle. In addition, the center hole in the front air deflector has been sealed; an extension has been added to the front air deflector; the aerodynamics for the running boards have been improved and the center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) - which was previously roof-mounted - is now recessed into the liftgate glass for improved vehicle aerodynamics.

Hybrid highlights

Introduced during the 2004 model year, Silverado 1500 Hybrid promises up to 10 percent improvement in fuel economy and returns all the performance and capability expected in a full-size pickup. The Vortec 5300 V-8 engine delivers 295 horsepower (220 kw) and 335 lb.-ft. (463 Nm) of torque - the same as its non-hybrid counterpart. Yet there's something the Sierra Hybrid provides that standard models do not: it is essentially a mobile power-generating station, with four 120-volt/20-amp electrical auxiliary power outlets (APO). The power outlets are located under the rear seat of the cab and in the pickup bed. Customers can conveniently operate power equipment without taking up the bed space typical portable generators would use.

A key contributor to the Hybrid's fuel efficiency is its ability to automatically stop and restart the engine under different operating circumstances. Instead of a conventional starter motor and alternator, Hybrid pickups use a compact 14-kw electric induction motor or starter generator integrated in a patented, space-efficient manner between the engine and transmission. The starter generator provides fast, quiet starting power and allows automatic engine stops/starts to conserve fuel. It also smoothes out any driveline surges; generates electrical current to charge the batteries and run auxiliary power outlets; and provides coast-down regenerative braking, as an aid to fuel economy.

Please see the "Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid" release in the Fleet and Commercial section of the Corporate book of the GM Product Information Guide for complete details on the Silverado Hybrid.

Safety and security across the range

Silverados are equipped with GM's Passenger Sensing System (PSS).  PSS uses the latest sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it would not deploy in the event of a frontal collision. A status indicator on the instrument panel alerts occupants that the passenger air bag is on or off. Even with this system, GM strongly recommends to restrain child passengers in an appropriate child seat placed in the second or third row of the vehicle. Never install a rear-facing infant seat in front of an active air bag. GM also recommends that all children 12 and under ride in the rear seat when possible.

The Silverado also has dual-stage frontal air bags (not available on 1500 HD Crew Cab and 2500 HD and 3500 Series models) for supplemental protection for front seat passengers. Dual-stage frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of air bag-induced injury. When the air bag system's control unit detects an impact, it determines whether the crash is severe enough to trigger a deployment, and whether the primary amount of inflation is sufficient. The primary stage alone will deploy in most frontal impacts requiring the supplemental protection of an air bag, while a secondary stage is designed to deploy in more severe frontal collisions.

GM's OnStar safety and security system is standard on LT and available on LS light duty models. In the heavy duty range, OnStar is standard on Silverado LT Extended Cab and Crew Cab models, and available on 2500 HD and 3500 models.

Silverados feature OnStar's new sixth-generation hardware with digital and analog coverage. The Gen 6 hardware also includes upgraded hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada. Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Personal Calling that allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls using a powerful three-watt digital/analog system and external antenna for greater reception.

Additional safety and security systems include electronic traction control on 2WD Silverados to enhance handling and response on models equipped with a V-8 engine, automatic transmission and locking rear differential. All models come standard with PASSLock II theft deterrent system, and a driver information center that monitors and reports on up to 34 vehicle system functions.

Air conditioning, chrome front bumpers, tinted glass, power steering with tilt-adjustable column, a full-size spare tire and heavy-duty battery also are standard on all Silverado models. 

Quadrasteer for added maneuverability

GM's exclusive Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system - which offers low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability, handling and control ideal for pulling a trailer - is available on 1500 Extended Cab short-box and 2500 Crew Cab pickups. At low speeds, Quadrasteer enables the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels. That helps the vehicle make tighter turns such as when cornering or getting into a tight parking space. At higher speeds, the system reduces vehicle yaw, or rotational motion, for more control during lane changes and demanding conditions.

Quality entertainment systems

Impressive entertainment systems - from available Bose sound systems to a Panasonic DVD passenger entertainment system - add to Silverado's creature comforts. These systems (except the base fleet radio) feature the next-generation Radio Data System, and can interface with services such as the optional XM Satellite Radio. On Crew Cab models, available rear-seat audio controls allow second-row passengers to enjoy a separate audio source from front-seat occupants.

XM (continental U.S. only) provides more than 120 coast-to-coast, digital-quality channels of original commercial-free music and premier news, sports and talk as well as advanced traffic and weather information for select major metropolitan areas nationwide. Consumers can subscribe to the basic service for $9.99 a month. In addition, GM customers with GMAC financing can choose to include the XM subscription in their car payments.

Silverado SS, Z71 Off-Road Package 

Among the wide selection of Silverado models are two versions that offer the ultimate for either highway cruising or off-road fun.

Silverado SS, based on a 1500 Series Extended Cab with a short bed, is a contemporary expression of Chevy power for those muscle car enthusiasts who want the added versatility of a muscle truck. A high-output version of GM's Vortec 6000 V-8 pumps out 345 horsepower (257 kw) and 380 lb.-ft. (515 Nm) of torque. Bolted to a Hydra-Matic 4L85-E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission equipped with a 3.06 first gear and 0.70 final gear, this potent powertrain delivers both rapid acceleration and relaxed highway cruising.

Keeping all this power connected to the pavement is a standard full-time, electronic all-wheel-drive (AWD) viscous-coupled transfer case for enhanced wet or dry pavement handling, along with an innovative Z60 high-performance chassis and tire package that includes Silverado's largest ever 20-inch wheel and tire combination for exceptional road holding and cornering capabilities.

For 2005, Silverado SS is available with a power sunroof option. Silver Birch Metallic is offered in addition to Victory Red.

For those interested more in four-wheeling fun and capability, the Silverado Z71 Off-Road Package is available on half-ton 4WD models. The Z71 package includes 46-mm gas-charged shock absorbers, off-road jounce bumpers, specific stabilizer bars, a skid-plate package, a high-capacity air cleaner and distinctive Z71 decals for the pickup box. 

Silverado Z71 can be equipped with features such as cruise control, rear defogger, power door locks, remote keyless entry, rearview mirror, AM/FM stereo with CD and cassette player, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, fog lamps, color-keyed grille and deep-tinted glass.

Silverado Heavy Duty - For any power and performance need

Featuring a redesigned hood and grille for 2005, Chevy Silverado Heavy Duty pickups comprise the segment's most diverse lineup, with a wide selection of weight ratings, body styles and powertrain combinations including diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) models.

GM's Duramax 6600 6.6L (V-8) turbo-diesel was already legendary for its awesome performance, but engineers decided to make it even better. Both hardware and software were upgraded in '04, resulting in a 10 horsepower (7.5 kw) increase. Not satisfied with "good enough," the engineers went back to work and the result is a 70 lb.-ft. (97 Nm) torque increase for 2005. The revised powerplant delivers 310 horsepower (231 kw) at 3000 rpm and 605 lb.-ft. (836 Nm) of torque at 1600 rpm when equipped with the Allison automatic transmission.

At the top of the gasoline engine range is an optional Vortec 8100 8.1L V-8, rated at 330 hp (246 kw) and 450 lb.-ft. (610 Nm) of torque.  The Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8 produces 300 hp (224 kw) and 360 lb.-ft. (488 Nm) of torque.

No fewer than 14 different Silverado HD models can run on dedicated (CNG) or bi-fuel systems, the latter which operates on either CNG or gasoline when equipped with a Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8 with hardened valves and seats to withstand CNG's lack of lubricity and cooling. Special versions with reduced gross vehicle weight ratings (8,500 pounds or 3,825 kg) enable customers to meet fleet requirements in "non-attainment" areas, while GVWR ratings of up to 9,200 pounds (4,173 kg) are available.

Impressive and tough

With impressive power, tough frames, advanced suspensions and high-capacity brakes, the 2500HD/3500 Series provides outstanding payload capacities as well as outstanding hauling and towing capabilities. The three-quarter-ton models have a GVWR as much as 9,200 pounds (4,173 kg), and payloads up to 3,964 pounds (1,798 kg). The one-ton pickup models have a GVWR up to 11,400 pounds (5,171 kg) and payloads up to 5,753 pounds (2,610 kg).

For chassis cab models, Silverado HD has an 11,400-pound (5,171-kg) GVWR for 2WD versions and a 12,000-pound (5,443 kg) GVWR when equipped with 4WD. Chassis cabs provide payloads up to 6,089 pounds (2,762 kg).

Capable smooth-shifting transmissions

Duramax 6600 and Vortec 8100 are mated to smooth-shifting, high-capacity transmissions with close-ratio gearing to provide optimum launch, hill climbing and towing capabilities.

The ZF S6-650 six-speed is fully synchronized in all gears. Dual cone synchronizers in second and third gear provide extra capacity. The shift lever moves forward for first and straight back for reverse, providing easy low-speed maneuvering since drivers don't have to go across the shift pattern to select reverse. Second gear can be used for launching unloaded or lightly loaded trucks. First gear can be used as a "creeper gear" for extra low-end performance.

The Allison 1000 was built to move big-time tonnage. It has full electronic control of shift-timing points, five forward speeds and helical-type planetary gearsets for quiet operation. It also provides two operating modes, normal and Tow/Haul. When hauling heavy loads down long, steep grades, a grade-braking mechanism automatically downshifts to help slow the vehicle when the driver applies the brakes.

A heavy-duty, five-speed manual transmission and GM's optional Hydra-Matic 4L80-E four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission are available with the Vortec 6000. The 4L80-E also provides Passive Shift Stabilization with Tow/Haul mode and a standard temperature gauge and temperature monitoring system.