welcome tocritic's notebook, a quick and spontaneous review of the car consisting of impressions, notes and marginal notes on everythingThe walkWriters drive randomly. Today's edition:2018 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Z71.
Confession alert: I love pickup trucks.
Of course, that probably doesn't sound like a shocking revelation, not in a country where pickup trucks are the top-selling passenger vehicle per country or city mile. (Remember, folks: General Motors, Ford, and Fiat-Chrysler sold 2,257,361 full-size trucks in 2017, which means that more than one in eight new vehicles purchased last year was a Silverado, Sierra, Ram, or F-Series.) . As for the pigeonholes we auto journalists like to pigeonhole ourselves in, I certainly wouldn't describe myself as a "trucker." Put the new cars for sale today in a hodgepodge of cans to choose from and I'll run for the keys for those folks.a muscle car with a manual transmissionor bring the hip to a septuagenarian for the left front seat ofthe latest and greatest sports sedan.
And yet, a long weekend in the 2018 Chevy Silverado reminded me how fucking awesome trucks are. Over a three-day period, I hiked up and down Vermont's well-trodden logging trails and traversed Class 3 highways, stuffed my bed with furniture and curios while helping my mom move, and traveled over 800 interstate miles across four states, occasionally at speeds that would have gotten me a hefty ticket if some Supertrooper caught me on their radar nets. No fast machine, no luxury sedan, no family tractor could have done all these things; Even most SUVs would have thrown down their metaphorical gloves during the chores.
The Silverado did all of this without even remotely breaking a sweat.
The advantages:
- It's not hard to see why the crew cab body has become so popular with truck buyers: it combines the people-carrying capabilities of a full-size sedan with the versatility of any truck that can go anywhere and load anything. thing on its back. As with any jack of all trades, this makes for a compromise: You should go for the shorter bed (unless you find the idea of building a vehicle that feels as long as that).queen maryacross the Costco parking lot), and people inside should feel more comfortable sharing space with their bag since there's no trunk space. But the Silverado ends well with these bargains; At just over five and a half feet long, the bed is still big enough to hold just about anything you throw in there, and there's enough room in the rear to slide loose items into the rear footwells, even if three people in the back sit bench
- The Z71 package makes trips off the beaten track a piece of cake. My Silverado conquered the wet, rock-strewn two lanes of Vermont with such ease that it would rip the exhaust out of many smaller SUVs—I didn't even have to switch the 4WD system out of RWD mode. Part of the credit goes to the big, jagged off-road tires, but the Z71-specific suspension deserves credit as well, offering a raised ride height that soaks up nasty off-road bumps while still delivering a smooth ride on the road. road.
- The 5.3-liter/eight-speed automatic may no longer be the top box on the powertrain options list, but it's all this truck needs, unless you're towing powerful loads; In the time I've owned it, the Silverado never felt like it was hungry for power.
- LikeGeorge Carlin once said that your house is just a place to put your things while you go out and buy more things., the Silverado is perfectly designed to serve a similar purpose. Bless GM (and indeed all of the Big Three) for packing trucks these days with utility features simpler than you can practically imagine. Cubbies, halters, and angles for all manner of personal accessories abound; In case they do require power, I counted no less than four USB ports, a 110-volt outlet, and a 12-volt feed hole between the driver's seat and the shotgun throne. And I probably missed some.
- Likewise, all automotive interior design teams need to emulate the way Chevy's Big Rig features bold and intuitive dials and knobs for all key interior functions. (Double for the boys and girls at the end of the hall in theCadillacStudy.)
- As truck manufacturers have loaded their products with more and more high-end and luxury options to enhance their bottom line, the LTZ trim strikes a good balance between price and features. It may not be High Country or King Ranch themed, but the comfortable leather seats are heated and cooled, the windows go up and down with a single touch, and the air conditioning allows both driver and passenger to regulate their own temperature according to their needs. be necessary. . Sure, there are other niceties, but they're just that:Bonito, not beneficial.
The disadvantages:
- It's true that the age of the Silverado can be seen in some details. The infotainment system's screen looks tiny in its plastic-clad frame in the mighty center console, and the working gauges are a bit cheap for a $55,000 vehicle. (And the lack of a red line on certain tachometers will always be a ghost of mine.)
- Get ready to rack up an impressive bill at the local Sunoco. I saw a total of about 18 mpg on the trip computer, and that number plummeted every time I hit the gas on the freeway toward a potential parking ticket zone. (Texans struggling with 85-mph speed limits should prepare for 15-mpg averages.) Thankfully, the 5.3-liter only needs regular gas, but it fills up with gas prices slowly creeping north again. Even the 87-octane 26-gallon tank can be an expensive proposition.
- There is no sense of direction. I'd feel stupid if I said something like that about a truck; It's like complaining about the lack of ground clearance in one.Lamborghini Hurricane– if it weren't for the fact that complete machines from Ford and Ram have proven that injecting a little dynamism into the controls of a massive body-on-frame vehicle is no match for Detroit.
- Do you yourself suffer from a mild case of OCD? Then, be prepared to talk to your doctor about increasing your dose after spending time with your steering position slightly off.
The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Z71 Rated:
Performance: 3.5/5
Comfort: 4/5
Luxury: 3/5
Carry people: 4/5
Carry things: 5/5
Curb Appeal: 3.5/5
Factor „Wow“: 2/5
General: 3.5/5
The final result:
Der Silverado 2018, asThe walkTruck guru Kyle Cheromcha pointed outin his recent review of the Centenary versionIt's gotten pretty old when it comes to new cars.An all-new model will hit the streets later this year., and just in time;the new 2019 Ram 1500served a better ride whileFord F-150 comes out of a mid-cycle makeoverthis brings a lively style and new possibilities.as a turbo diesel engine option. Any brand-agnostic buyer who tries all three will likely find this Chevy's two main competitors to be better choices, especially if their personal version of the dilemma isn't overwhelmed by the incentives GM or the local dealer has slapped on the hoods of their aging vans. to get them out the door.
But the outgoing Silverado can still do everything Americans want and want in trucks. She can haul five people and haul hundreds of pounds of everything you care about in the back as she plows her way across terrain for rough cars to whine and die. Who cares if the plastic trim looks a little cheap or the steering has all the gum line sensitivity after a double dose of novocaine?
America has always defined itself, for better or worse, since its inception as a country of self-determination, of rugged individualism, a place where the measure of a person is determined by their abilities, if left to them. We honor and celebrate those who not only persevere in the face of battle, but also those who go it alone, those who can survive and develop their own strengths and abilities. Is it any wonder that we love vehicles like the Silverado that allow us to do as much as possible?
The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Z71 in numbers:
Basic price (tested price):$50.695 ($55.420)
Transmission:5.3-liter V8, 355 hp, 383 pound-feet of torque; eight-speed automatic; all wheel drive
Fuel Consumption:15 city, 20 highway (EPA estimate)
Total weight of people and cargo that can be carried:1,900 pounds
The best part of the Midnight Edition bundle:Chevy's black bow ties
FAQs
Is the 2018 Z71 Silverado a good truck? ›
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Used Truck? Yes, the Chevy Silverado 1500 is a good full-size pickup truck . The Silverado is comfortable to ride in, whether you're tackling work or out to play. It's has a lineup of muscular V6 and V8 engine options, which can help it tow and haul some considerable loads.
What problems does the 2018 Silverado Z71 have? ›However, many 2018-2022 Chevy Silverado drivers have reported a few common problems including transmission problems, airbag issues, faulty brakes, engine problems, stiff suspension, and more. Many of these problems have lead to successful lemon law claims and compensation for their owners.
Was 2018 a good year for Chevrolet Silverado? ›The best of years: 2018
The 2018 also has the highest J.D. Power rating among Silverado 1500s for this generation: 85/100. In fact, this particular Silverado tops the J.D. Power overall rankings, besting the Toyota Tundra by one point.
The 2012 model year is known as one of Chevy's most reliable pickups due to the comfortable ride it creates and attractive exterior build. With only 4 recalls and 236 complaints, it has a good rating for crashworthiness with the IIHS.
How many miles can a Z71 last? ›The average Chevy Silverado will last around 200,000 miles.
What's so special about Z71? ›The Z71 package includes Rancho brand shocks, which provide better suspension for bumpy trails and other rough terrain. An underbody shield and brushed metal sill plates also protect against all those bumps along the way.
Do 2018 Silverados have transmission problems? ›Customer complaints about the 2018 Silverado's transmission are rampant. Customers have reported problems from jerky shifting to complete transmission failures with only a few miles on the vehicle.
What are the common transmission problems for 2018 Chevy Silverado? ›The 2018 Silverados have been known to slam hard into second gear after spending too long revving in first. Some owners have even reported that their car shifts hard from reverse into drive, which can be troublesome in parking lots. Silverados may also make grinding noises before they shift gears.
How long will a 2018 Silverado last? ›When well maintained, the average mileage life of a Chevy Silverado can be anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles. That's around 10 to 20 years of service depending on how many miles you'd be driving around Galesburg with your Silverado.
How long will a 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 last? ›On average, the Chevy Silverado 1500 will last around 200,000 miles.
How much should I pay for a 2018 Silverado? ›
The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado starts at over $29,000 for a regular cab Work Truck and runs to more than $67,000 for a Silverado High Country crew cab with all the fixings. Build and price your own 2018 Chevrolet Silverado right here at KBB.com to unlock its Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own and more.
Which Silverado engine is best? ›The new 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 option is the best engine for a Chevy Silverado, that is if you're focused on horsepower and torque.
Is Chevy Silverado better than Ford? ›Winner: Ford
The Ford Maverick is less powerful, but it's great for highway cruising where it's every bit as smooth as a family sedan. Chevrolet's trucks offer fine performance, but they aren't as refined or as engaging to drive as Ford's models.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevy Silverado 1500 is another full size truck that made the list of long lasting trucks. 1.9 percent of Chevy Silverado 1500s in the survey were still on the road at 200,000 miles. This truck has a lot to offer when it comes to towing capacity, payload, and power.
Maintenance Is Important to Longevity
That said, while most gas engines are intended to last at least 200,000 miles on average, a diesel truck that is well-maintained can potentially last 350,000 to 500,000 miles.
The Chevy 5.3 liter engine is a reliable engine that can last for many years if it is properly maintained. Many drivers report getting 200,000 miles or more out of their 5.3 liter engine.
Is the Z71 lifted? ›The Trail Boss combines the Z71 off-road package with other enhancements. The suspensions on these pickups have been given a 2-inch lift straight from the factory to allow you to leave city roads behind.
Is the Z71 package worth it? ›This package is available on most Silverado HD configurations and can provide extra stability and protection when driving on rough roads. If you plan on driving in the mud, gravel, or grass more often than on paved roads, you definitely need the Z71 configuration on your Chevy truck.
What does Z71 mean on a pickup? ›What is a Z71 truck? The Z71 is a chassis package and is a designated off-road vehicle with the following features: Off-road suspension with Rancho Shocks. 18” or 20” wheels. All-terrain tires.
What does LTZ Z71 mean? ›Chevy LTZ stands for “luxury touring z”, with “z” symbolizing the next step up from the “LT” trim. Davenport drivers may notice numbers with an LTZ trim, like “LTZ1” or “1LTZ”. Because the LTZ label is only available on higher-up trims, there aren't as many Chevy models with the LTZ label.
Does 2018 Chevy Silverado have transmission problems? ›
Customer complaints about the 2018 Silverado's transmission are rampant. Customers have reported problems from jerky shifting to complete transmission failures with only a few miles on the vehicle.
What is the Silverado Z71 package? ›This off-road package comes with a metal underbody shield, all-terrain tires, a high-capacity air filter, Hill Descent Control, an off-road suspension with Rancho® shocks, a two-speed transfer case, and an automatic locking rear differential.
What does the Z71 package include 2018? ›It adds Rancho brand shocks, air cleaner, Hill Descent Control, Underbody Shield and Recovery Hooks, Z71 sill plates, unique gauge cluster & interior trim, unique body-colour lower bumper & grill design with Z71 badge & tailgate badge.
What does Z71 mean on Silverado? ›The Chevy Silverado Z71 package is an optional upgrade to add to your Silverado 1500 to enhance the pickup's off-road capabilities. The Z71 package is Chevy's signature off-road package and is well-respected in off-road communities.
What is the best year Chevy Silverado to buy used? ›What's the best year for a used Chevrolet Silverado? While all Silverados hold pretty good reputations for durability and longevity, we think a late-model second-generation Silverado from 2011 to 2014 strikes a good balance between an affordable low-cost truck and a truck with modern features and equipment.
Does Z71 have factory lift? ›Silverado Z71 Trail Boss
The Trail Boss combines the Z71 off-road package with other enhancements. The suspensions on these pickups have been given a 2-inch lift straight from the factory to allow you to leave city roads behind.
The LT Z71 provides access to Hill Descent Control and an automatic locking rear differential, as well as trailering and Z71 off-road packages.
What comes with the Z71 package? ›2022 Chevy Silverado Z71 Package Design Upgrades
This package also comes with new badging including a Z71 graphic on the instrument cluster and a special finish on the interior trim. You can also find a Z71 badge on the grille.
Z71 Off-Road and Protection package (prices start at $1,770; available in LT, RST, and LTZ): a two-speed transfer case, a locking rear differential (if not already included), hill descent control, all-terrain tires, skid plates, Rancho shock absorbers, and an upgraded air filter.
How fast is a Chevy Z71? ›Chevrolet Silverado Top Speed
The Chevrolet Silverado has a top speed of 114mph, a notable speed for a truck of this size.
What's the difference between LT Z71 and LTZ Z71? ›
Generally, LT models have features like cloth seating and body-color door handles, whereas the LTZ models get leather upholstery and chrome door handles.
Is Z71 a sport package? ›A POLISHED APPEARANCE.
The Z71 Chrome Sport Edition includes: Chrome door handles, skid plate, grille inserts and mirror caps. Body-color bumpers and grille bar. Available in Summit White or Black exterior colors.