2015 Chevy Silverado 1500
The 2015 Chevy Silverado remains a potent contender in the full-size pickup class. It now gets an eight-speed automatic gearbox for the optional 6.2-liter V8 engine. However, the more powerful engine is limited to higher trim models. Capable of pumping out 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, the 6.2-liter V8 engine enables a max towing capacity of 9,100 to 12,000 pounds (properly equipped). Meanwhile, standard on all but the Silverado LTZ is a 4.3-liter V6 with 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with a six-speed automatic and either a rear-wheel or four-wheel drivetrain, the V6 can tow anywhere from 5,500 to 7,600 pounds. The optional 5.7-liter V8 is also available across the board. Churning out 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, it sends power to the rear wheels (or all four wheels) via a six-speed automatic gearbox, enough for a towing capacity of 6,200 to 11,500 pounds.
Easy Engine Hacks
The 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine is a powerhouse. Still, there's a weak point: The standard six-speed automatic transmission has super-wide gear ratios, making heavy towing and heavy hauling more tedious than intended, most especially with the base V6 engine. But if you optimize the torque curve with a performance tuner, both the V6 and 5.3-liter V8 can churn out more torque at lower engine speeds, which means your truck will change gears earlier and run at lower revs and save fuel. In addition, tuning the engine will unleash anywhere from 10 to 20 horsepower (depending on the type of tune) by altering the air-fuel ratio and ignition timing. And while you're at it, you can improve engine breathing by installing a cold air intake and a cat-back exhaust kit, two basic mods that yield the most power gains when paired with ECU tuning.
Raising the Stakes
There are three available types of Chevy Silverado lift kits:
- spacer lift kits
- suspension lift kits
- leveling kits
The most basic and affordable are leveling kits that help balance your truck's stance, getting rid of the factory rake which has the rear end raised higher than the front. However, leveling kits will not add a lot of tire clearance and ground clearance, so keep this in mind if you plan on installing new wheels and tires. On the other hand, spacer lift kits consist of spacers that go between your Chevy's frame and suspension. Although spacer lift kits will raise your truck higher, the chassis and suspension are at the same height and will offer no additional ground clearance. However, body lift kits will allow you to install larger off-road tires, but only to a certain point. If you're looking to raise the stakes further, suspension lift kits are a better (albeit pricier) option. Suspension lift kits will typically replace the stock coil springs, spacers, shock absorbers, leaf springs, bushings, and control arms under your truck. The result is maximum ground clearance, increased suspension travel and the ability to fit monster tires up to 37-inches in height.
Better Practicality
The 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500 is a practical choice for a workhorse or everyday family truck. It comes in regular cab, extended double cab, and crew cab body styles with varying bed lengths. The only thing missing is an under-seat storage system for the rear seats. The Silverado's interior has numerous cubby holes, storage bins, and cupholders. But other than those, it doesn't have a standard under-seat storage compartment. Not only does it allow you to store and organize tools, camping gear, and other equipment without altering the interior, but under-seat storage helps keep your important stuff away from prying eyes. Polyethelene plastic is the most common construction material, as it imposes good structural strength without being too heavy or expensive to mold and produce. Removable dividers allow for custom compartmentalization, and some under-seat storage boxes are equipped with a locking lid making them suitable for firearm storage.
