What’s New?
Sometimes it’s hard to part with the past. As Chevrolet introduces an all-new 2007 Silverado, it is also keeping the previous-generation model for one more year, calling it the Classic. Both product lines, the old and the new, will sell side-by-side in showrooms. Since 2007 marks the final model year for the outgoing Silverado Classic model, there are no changes to the truck.

Overview
Although the Chevrolet Silverado Classic is entering its final year of production, it’s going out with a flare. It is GM’s best-selling model. Based on a design dating back to 1999, the 2007 Silverado Classic continues to offer one of the broadest model ranges in the industry—even significantly more than the new redesigned Silverado line that’s replacing it. The half-ton Classic 1500 comes in six trim levels—compared to four for the new line—and offers unique Hybrid and SS models that the new Silverado line does not have…at least not presently. The light-duty lineup of Silverado Classics (there’s also a Silverado Classic Heavy Duty line) are available in a dizzying assortment of configurations. Body styles include Regular, Extended, or Crew Cab. Three cargo boxes are available: standard 6.5-foot; a 5-foot, 8-inch short box; or an extended 8-foot long box. Customers can also choose between two- and four-wheel-drive models.

The Hybrid Classic boasts up to a 10 percent fuel savings by employing an electric starter generator in lieu of the traditional starter motor and alternator, which allows the gasoline engine to stop and restart when advisable—such as while waiting at a traffic light. The starter generator also offers customers the luxury of several 120-volt auxiliary power outlets to run conventional power tools and accessories. On the other end of the spectrum is the high-performance Silverado SS Classic that sports a high-output version of the Vortec 6.0-liter V-8 engine, which pumps out 345 hp and features a 4.10-geared locking rear axle for zippy acceleration. Customers wanting optimum towing capacity can opt for a VortecMAX Performance Package that combines heavy-duty towing components with the high-output Vortec 6.0-liter engine that delivers 345 hp and 380 lb.-ft. of torque.

Standard features on the light-duty 2007 Silverado Classic include anti-lock brakes, front air bags with a passenger-sensing system, and GM’s new 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Competition
The Chevrolet Silverado Classic competes in the Large Pickup segment, which consists of seven models. Buyers in this segment look for performance, comfort, and reliability, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Avoider Study^SM and the Escaped Shopper Study.^SM

The top sellers in the segment during calendar year 2006, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM were the Ford F-Series (764,198 units sold, including Super Duty models), Chevrolet Silverado (636,069, including Heavy Duty and Classic models), and Dodge Ram Pickup (364,177, including Heavy Duty models). The Chevrolet Silverado/HD/Classic’s 636,069 sales in 2006 represent a decrease of 9.9 percent compared to the previous year. Other models offered in the Large Pickup segment include the GMC Sierra/Sierra Classic (light- and heavy-duty models), Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan, and Chevrolet Avalanche.