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Introduction:

To help members understand the latest automotive technology so they can purchase vehicles that best suit their needs, the Automobile Club of Southern California's Automotive Research Center (ARC) began testing and reviewing vehicles over a decade ago

For the 2024 edition, we include testing and ranking cars and light trucks with the latest technology, including having at least one advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) feature. In addition to vehicle evaluation, the guide covers a number of pertinent automotive topics in detail—for example, the latest advanced safety features, how to properly maintain your vehicle, and new vehicles coming to market in the next few years.

2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew ZR2

Vehicle Type: Pickup Gasoline
79
 overall score
Category Ranking: 3

Vehicle Price

Base Price: $69,800
Price as Tested: $77,400

Fuel Information

Fuel Type: Regular
Fuel Capacity (gal): 24
EPA City mpg14
EPA Highway mpg17
EPA Combined mpg15

Advanced Safety Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control [O]
  • Advanced Headlights [S]
  • Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
  • Blind-Spot Warning [S]
  • Forward-Collision Warning [S]
  • Lane-Departure Warning [S]
  • Lane-Keeping Assistance [S]
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Warning [S]
  • Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
  • [S] Standard, [O] Optional
NHTSA Rating:

Overall Observations

The ZR2 is the Chevy Silverado's most extreme variant. With a 6.2-liter V8, 33-inch all-terrain tires, increased ride height, locking front and rear differentials, and special suspension dampers, it's a serious off-roader, designed to go almost anywhere you’d ask a truck to go. The ZR2's responsive V8 engine (the only option) delivers strong acceleration, its 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and ride quality is good overall. With its crew cab, large bed, optional multi-hinged tailgate, tonneau cover, and standard 4-wheel drive, the ZR2 is definitely a functional work truck. This is no bare-bones pickup, however. The cabin provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, and fit and finish inside and out are excellent. Standard features include a heated steering wheel and front seats, paddle shifters, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The intuitive infotainment system is easy to use, with a 13.4-inch color touch screen and an easily accessible layout and controls. The ZR2 is equipped with Chevy's Safety Assist package, plus advanced standard safety features specific to the ZR2. Some of the ZR2's downsides come with pickup territory: Fuel economy, at just 15 mpg in combined driving, is dismal. Getting in and out is difficult because the ZR2 lacks side steps, and the turning radius and steering ratio are large.

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Pros and Cons

Pros

  • The optional multi-hinged tailgate, tonneau cover, and large cargo area make it a useful work truck
  • Lots of room for passengers and cargo
  • Powerful V8 acceleration and responsiveness
  • Good ride quality and off-road capability
  • Intuitive, easy-to-use infotainment system

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy
  • Difficult entry/exit because of increased ride height/lack of built-in steps
  • Large turning radius, high steering ratio
  • Long brake pedal travel

Vehicle Specifications

Model year tested: 2023
Number of passengers (F/R): 2/3
Curb weight (lbs): 5300.0
Exterior L / W / H (in): 232.8 / 81.2 / 78.7
Wheelbase (in): 147.5
Number of air bags: 7
Warranty (months/miles): 36/36,000
Tire manufacturer and model: Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT
Front and rear tire size: 275/70 R18
Max towing capacity (lbs): 8,800
Headlight type: LED
Transmission type: Auto 10-speed
Drivetrain type: Four wheel
Engine/motor: 6.2L V8 Ecotec3
Engine horsepower @ RPM: 420 @ 5,600

Test Data

Test Vehicle Scores

Advanced Safety Features:

8.70

Fuel Efficiency:

1.50

EPA Emissions Score:

6.00

Acceleration:

5.06

Braking:

.00
Handling: 5.84
Quality and Drivability: 8.25

Ride Quality:

7.32

Interior Size:

6.86

Easy of Entry and Exit:

7.04

Visibility:

7.60

Interior Noise:

5.64

Cargo Capacity:

8.74
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