Silverado HD pickups are offered in 2WD and 4WD versions. Three cab styles are available, regular, extended, crew, along with two box sizes. They come in 2500 (3/4-ton) and 3500 (1-ton) versions; the 3500-series is available in single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel versions (though duallys won't arrive before May 2007). Cab and chassis models, suitable for fitting a custom work or tow body on, are available.

Trim levels vary from vinyl-floored Work Truck models through LT to plush LTZ, the latter using a unique interior design.

The basic WT comes with six-speaker AM/FM stereo, ABS, air conditioning, tire pressure monitors, 40/20/40 vinyl front bench with armrest, and six-speed automatic with tow/haul mode and dual overdrives.

LT versions are split in LT1 and LT2 by package. To a WT the LT adds auto-dimming mirror and compass, cruise control, driver lumbar, locking seat cushion storage, leather-wrapped steering wheel, electronic shift 4WD, and chrome wheel trim. At about $1800 the LT2 upgrade adds cloth upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, fog lamps, and audio controls on the steering wheel.

Top trim LTZ includes an upscale dashboard design, Bose audio system with subwoofer, locking differential, remote start, leather upholstery with 12-way power and heated seats in front, two-person driver memory, trailer package, 17-inch aluminum wheels, and heated windshield washer fluid system.

The standard engine is a new iron-block 6-liter V-8 with variable valve timing and 353 hp; on models with GVWR greater than 10,000 pounds the engine is derated to 312 hp. The Duramax diesel option, bumped slightly in power to 365 horses and 660 lb-ft of torque, remains optional, and emissions upgrades and sophistication have driven the charge past $8,000 ($7195 for the engine and $1200 for the required transmission). The 8.1-liter big-block and all manual gearboxes have been dropped.

Variety characterizes the Silverado option palette, with working gear such as integrated trailer brake controller, dual alternators on diesels, remote start, and snow plow prep package to luxury features like satellite radio, heated seats and a moonroof. Many options are interrelated so check everything carefully.

Safety equipment includes frontal airbags, front seat belt pretensioners (a first for HD pickups), ABS, and OnStar.