2014 Chevrolet Silverado vs outgoing Silverado – photo comparison

General Motors unveiled yesterday its all-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickup trucks. These two vehicles are the most important models for the U.S. based automaker since its bankruptcy – considering the fact that the Silverado is GM’s best-selling vehicle and that according to some analysts the average age of big pickups in the United States is more than 10-12 years.

In addition, with these two trucks, GM plans to outsell the Ford F-150.

So what’s new? In a few words, quite a bit.
Most important, the new truck comes with three brand new engines, three new EcoTec3 power plants – a 4.3-liter V6 (195 hp (145 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (351 Nm)) , 5.3-liter V8 (315 hp (235 kW) and 335 lb.-ft. of torque (452 Nm)) and 6.2-liter V8 (403 hp (300 kW) and 417 lb.-ft. of torque (565 Nm)), the same engine that will be used in the upcoming 2014 Chevy Corvette. GM promises that that the last one, the 6.2-liter V8 will top the power, torque, and tow ratings in its class.

All of them are “all-aluminum engines” and use direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation tech that allows them to operate on just four-cylinders under light loads, this of course to save some fuel. However if you are looking for thinks like 8-speed transmissions or twin-turbo engines, you will be disappointed, because at least for the moment GM will not offer such thinks.

The frame grows tougher, and finally looks like GM engineers have fine-tuned the coil-over front and leaf rear suspension for better handling and control. The new vehicles will get “powertrain grade braking” – a feature that will reduce brake wear. In addition, four-wheel Duralife discs are standard. Also they (the trucks of course – ) will come with electronic power steering instead of the engine-driven hydraulic pump.

Outside, the trucks’ dimensions are almost the same, but the overall shape will make the new model immediately recognizable. The most important changes up front are the more separated stacked headlights. On the back, the pickup bed is more accessible with a bumper cutout for a foot-hold. The extended-cabs will have new front-hinged rear doors with exterior handles, which will allow back seat passengers to exit the vehicle while front doors remain closed.

Inside the trucks, there’s more space for stowage – so more compartments, door pockets are enlarged and the central console can now accept hanging file folders. In the middle, buyers will find multiple USB ports and a 110-volt plug. 4.2-inch or 8-inch with MyLink and IntelliLink if you will get the GMC is available.

Pricing will be announced closer to the start of sales, GM said.