2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD Classic

What's New for 2007

Chevrolet is introducing a fully redesigned Silverado this year but has decided to keep the current-generation truck in production a little while longer. The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD "Classic" signifies the end of this generation's run. Changes are minimal but include standard tow hooks on all models and the addition of a few new features, such as a six-disc CD changer and steering-wheel-mounted controls, to the LT packages.

Introduction

Although this generation of the Chevy pickup is at the end of its lifespan, it doesn't mean that the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD Classic is completely outdated. This Silverado presents a compelling package if a lot of towing and hauling are required. A class-leading tow rating of 10,300 pounds makes the 1500HD the pickup of choice if you need all-out towing capability in a light-duty pickup. Actually, the HD strikes a nice balance by providing capabilities close to those of the 2500-series Silverado along with the more forgiving ride of the 1500-series trucks. Another couple of assets in the HD's favor are the standard 6.0-liter V8 that provides plenty of smooth, strong power, comfortable seats front and rear, and the availability of the OnStar communications system (which can be used to get directions, make reservations or summon medical help if needed).

Still, the Silverado shows it age when compared against the newer pickups from Dodge, Ford, Nissan and Toyota. Those trucks surpass the Chevy in terms of overall refinement, safety features and interior design, and although they can't match the 1500HD's impressive tow rating, their V8s furnish respectable performance as well. Unless towing capacity is your primary reason for buying a pickup truck, we would encourage you to try out the competition or check out the all-new Silverado before you buy.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD Classic is only available in a crew cab body style. Three trim levels are offered: 1LT, 2LT and 3LT. The 1LT comes with cruise control, keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD stereo and dual-zone air-conditioning. The 2LT adds automatic climate control, a power driver seat and Bose audio. The 3LT features leather seating (with heat and 10-way power adjustment for the front seats), a six-disc CD changer, upgraded outside mirrors and alloy wheels. Major options include the OnStar communications system, a sunroof, a Bose audio system, XM satellite radio and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Powertrains and Performance

The sole power plant choice is a 6.0-liter V8 rated at 300 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. The Vortec 6000, as it's called, is mated to a heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission that features a tow-haul mode (which adjusts shift points for better performance under load). Both two- and four-wheel-drive versions of the pickup truck are available. Living up to the "heavy-duty" abbreviation in its name, the Silverado 1500HD can tow up to 10,300 pounds.

Safety

Larger four-wheel disc brakes (borrowed from GM's 3/4-ton pickups) are standard and come with ABS. Traction control is optional, but many desirable safety features, such as stability control and side curtain airbags, are not available. In crash testing, the Chevy Silverado pickup truck received a rating of "Marginal" (third lowest out of four rankings) in the IIHS' frontal-offset crash test, while NHTSA frontal impact testing yielded four stars (out of five) for the driver and three stars for the front passenger.

Interior Design and Special Features

The cabin offers simple controls and clear, uncluttered gauges. Materials quality is unimpressive, and build quality, though improved over the last few years, is still behind the competition. There is plenty of room for six passengers, and the crew cab configuration makes for easy entry and exit. A driver message center monitors multiple vehicle systems, such as coolant temperature and remaining oil life.

Driving Impressions

Despite its hefty tow rating, the 2007 Silverado 1500HD is still comfortable enough to be a daily driver. The big V8 provides swift acceleration and the heavy-duty automatic transmission shifts with authority. The steering feels vague on center, but it's light and precise enough for easy maneuvering. 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.