The biggest news for General Motors at Detroit will be the debut of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.
The Silverado and Sierra replace the aging half-ton truck designs introduced back in 2007. There is one V6 and two V8 engines available. The 4.3-litre V6 is a truck-specific unit. For more power, you can opt for either a 5.3-litre or 6.2-litre V8. The engines use cylinder deactivation and variable-valve timing for improved efficiency. Transmissions are six-speed autos with a column mounted shifter.
And you'd never know it by looking at them, but one of the biggest advances in these two trucks is the use of high-strength and ultra-high-stength steel in the frame. The material is more expensive, but it'll make the frame both lighter and stronger.
Completely new interiors promise significantly more functionality and comfort than before. Optional are multiple power and USB outlets, as well as an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. Extended cabs now have a B-pillar and proper rear doors. While that huge opening you used to get with all doors open is gone, the new design offers more crash protection for passengers.
From the outside, you'll notice that the two grilles are now more differentiated. GMC is aiming for a slightly higher-end look.
The Z71 package makes a return which we're sure will delight off-road enthusiasts.
