2009 Chevy Silverado Hybrid 4WD Crew Cab

The Silverado Hybrid is Chevrolet’s gasoline-electric hybrid half-ton pickup that returns to the lineup for 2009 featuring General Motor’s two-mode hybrid system combining a 6.0-liter V8 gas engine with Active Fuel Management and late intake valve closing technology, with GM’s Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System. This system is said to achieve 40-percent greater city fuel economy and a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy. The new hybrid system allows the Silverado Hybrid to drive at up to 30 mph on electricity alone and also allows the engine to operate in its more economical V4 mode for longer periods.

With 367 lb-ft of torque, this combination allows for a towing capacity of 6100lbs which is just a bit less than its gas only twin. The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid shares the same two-mode hybrid transmission, 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack and aluminum-block 6.0-liter pushrod V8 as the Tahoe. This transmission has four fixed gear ratios and two 60-kilowatt electric motors with planetary gear sets into the space of a conventional gearbox.

Inside, the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid you’ll find a special tach with an “economy gauge” that has a green bar which represents a zone drivers can aim for to maximize fuel economy. The tachometer houses an auto stop reading to indicate when the gasoline engine is shut off although believe me, you’ll know when it does. An 8-inch touch screen features a screen to show if the power is coming from the electric motors, the gasoline engine, or both. It will also display real-time fuel economy and when regenerative braking is charging the batteries, as well as if the vehicle is in two- or 4-wheel drive mode. Oh by the way, applying the brakes in hybrids take just a bit of getting used to.

Under very light throttle, the electric motors can move the Silverado up to 30 miles an hour and moderate acceleration will start the gasoline engine. Like other systems, the gasoline engine turns off at stoplights and restarts when you tickle the throttle. Fuel economy estimates for the Silverado Hybrid are estimated at 20 mpg city/20 mpg highway, and while I didn’t spend much highway time in my tester, I got just under 19mpg which isn’t bad especially according to GM, the electric motors will allow the engine to operate in 4-cylinder mode more often. However, I have to admit that I don’t drive to maximize fuel economy..

As far as driving goes, I’m always amazed at how nice pickups are theses days and the Silverado was no exception. This is a very nice truck, comfortable and spacious inside with plenty of rear seat room for passengers. There is a large console with plenty of storage space and it comes with three cupholders for extra thirsty driver and passengers. The ride is smooth and the big trucks handles bumps well so whether you’re on the highway or off road, the Silverado makes the ride easy and comfortable. As far as performance goes, the 1500 hybrid has plenty of punch so no worries there for sure.

All this doesn’t come inexpensively though, as the tester based at $41,176 and with a few goodies and destination charges, the total came to $42,040. Basic warranty is 36 months and 36,000 miles with a 100,000 mile powertrain which is good news.

Bottom line, the Chevy Silverado Hybrid is a very nice truck so if you’re in the market for a full-size crew cab pick up, I’d suggest checking it out. I’m not saying that hybrids aren’t the be all and end all but they’re a good intermediate step so if you haven’t tried one lately, check Chevy’s Silverado Hybrid out, I think you’ll be pleased. For more on the Silverado Hybrid, click here……