The Chevy Silverado Takes a Huge Step Forward

As predicted, GM revealed the new Silverado in Detroit and it comes with a ton of improvements. The biggest thing the company is pushing has to do with the bed. It boasts more volume than competitors. For example, the short box contains 63 cubic feet of space, which is 20 percent more than the next-largest short-bed pickup. How did engineers accomplish this feat? Mostly by making the bed almost 7 inches wider. And, to combat the RamBox system, Chevrolet Accessories will outfit the Silverado with storage bins that go over the wheel wells.

Speaking of the bed, it retains a roll-formed high-strength steel floor. To make the Silverado a standout versus the F-150, GM used a higher strength steel than before, foregoing aluminum. Also, 12 fixed tiedown points that are stronger than ever join the party, along with nine mobile tiedowns. Really, you can’t have too many tiedowns, and I’m glad GM gets that.

For those who are lazy, weak, or just like tech, you can get a powered tailgate, so there’s no raising or lowering it yourself. For better safety, the CornerStep bumpers have larger cutouts, because some people have really large feet.

The cab gains storage compartments in the rear seatbacks, a huge underseat storage bin, and wireless phone charging.

All this comes with a lower curb weight. Part of the savings comes with composite parts for the rear suspension, and aluminum in the front suspension.