The All-New 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Trucks

Back in 2006, SUVs roamed soccer fields across the nation, so GM started releasing new models of the redesigned Tahoe and Suburban before bringing out their truck elders a few months later. The trucks featured new, luxury-inspired interiors and exteriors, as well as upgraded suspension features. The popular LS engine platform remained relatively unchanged for the new models.

Now pickup trucks hold the top two slots for vehicles sold in the U.S. It was only fitting to launch the next generation of GM vehicles with its flagship trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado and the GMC Sierra. For the 2014 model year the new trucks have been completely redesigned, the first time in seven years. ST

Exterior Features

The exterior carries the design heritage from the previous years with a beefed up, but refined front end for both the ½ ton trucks and HD models. Subtle lines on the fenders and dual body lines add a modern, rounded edge. The soft edges are in step with current design trends. The lights have been upgraded to projector beams up front. The gaps have been tightened and refined, the windshields raked back, the bumpers and taillights refined, and the doors fit into the body rather than on top. These tweaks equal 5% better aerodynamics over the previous models. The crew cabs, which now make up 60% of the market, feature longer doors, and the extended cab trucks now have forward opening rear doors.

Interior Features

The interior of the trucks resembles higher end custom vehicles with all of the usual amenities, plus better connectivity. Engineers have created pods to separate the interior functions, and MyLink and the Intellink center bring the entertainment system into the modern age. The dashboard edges are fluid and refined, not bulky, with the look of wrapped and stitched edges. The upgrade options are near endless, the centerpiece of which is the 8 inch touchscreen providing infotainment, voice recognition and optional WiFi. Multiple USB ports and even 12 volt outlets are in the console where phones and tablets can dock, and there’s also a large storage compartment. More durable cloth seats as well as refined leather are available in the cab that is designed to be quieter and more comfortable than ever. Storage is increased in the console, glove box and doors with the addition of rubber liners.

GMC Sierra

There are significant differences between the GMC Sierra and it’s sibling the Silverado. The Sierra has more options coming standard, a redesigned exterior and interior and more refined materials, including aluminum, wood and carbon fiber, with more finishes available in the interior. The first trucks produced by GM were under the GMC name with Chevrolet to follow years after. The GMC truck line was kept so that non Chevrolet dealers could offer a full line. Now, the GMC line is for those who want more from their trucks.

Suspension

The suspension on the ½ ton trucks balances load capacity, handling and comfort with a fully boxed frame and stronger rearends. A multitude of new safety features will be introduced, including a seat alert system, forward collision alert and hill start assist is to come. After all, many use their trucks not only for work, but also to chauffer their children to school and for weekend family outings. The goal of the new trucks is to offer the best experience possible with refined controls, handling and comfort, not just brute force. The Z71 models will be available as well, which include Rancho monotube shocks, hill descent control and more. Sheer body mounts not only handle vertical but also horizontal movement.

EcoTec3 Engines

Under the hood, the LS platform has been phased out for the all new EcoTec3 engine platforms that share technology with the LT1 in the new Corvettes being released next year. The fifth generation en gine features direct injection, cylin der deactivation and variable valve timing, all for better power, torque and fuel efficiency. At launch, the Silverado and Sierra will have V 6 4.3L, V 8 5.3L and V 8 6.2L engine packages available. All engines seamlessly switch to four cylinder mode under light loads. The 4.3L V 6 will have enough torque to handle towing and hauling, as well! The engines feature 11.0:1 compression (11.5:1 on the 6.2L V 8) on pump gas, thanks to the advances in technology, while reducing emissions by up to 25%. High power, better fuel efficiency and lower emissions combine in the next generation of GM engines, which are all aluminum blocks with iron cylinder liners. Some of the accessories have changed as well, the trucks have electric power steering, an offset water pump, and an engine driven mechanical vacuum pump for bet ter braking and improved emissions. All are backed by a six speed transmission.

With the 2014 models, GM is helping to turn trucks into the best all around vehicles on the market. They are ideal for work and play, with hauling, handling, comfort and style all taken into account. The new EcoTec3 engine platforms allow for better gas mileage to help with the pocket book on commutes and long journeys. The Canyon and Colorado trucks will be reintroduced as well along with the HD trucks and diesel models. The 2014 Chevrolet Silver ado and GMC Sierra trucks are re designed and reengineered from hood to hitch to make the most durable, comfortable, refined truck possible. They are set to hit the streets in early summer.

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