THE BIGBOSS

THE LT TRAIL BOSS IS THE MORE AFFORDABLE AND BETTER SPECIFIED SILVERADO TRUCK FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS. READ ON TO FIND OUT WHY

- MATT RAUDONIKIS

THE increased availability of American pickup trucks in Australia has really seen their popularity boom with buyers. Specifically, the 1500 trucks from Chevrolet and Ram have enticed buyers with more affordable prices.

Ram has had an advantage in the 1500s with its Express model coming in at less than $100K, while GMSV was only offering the up-spec Silverado 1500 LTZ here which retails for $115,990. Now, the local importer has a new entry-level Silverado on the market, and not only is it a cheaper option than the LTZ but we reckon the $106,990 Silverado LT Trail Boss is a better rig where it matters.

POWERTRAIN & PERFORMANCE

THE only powertrain on offer in the 1500 trucks by GMSV is the L86 6.2-litre OHV petrol V8 backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine makes 624Nm of torque and 313kW of power, which gets the unladen Chevy along nicely.

This is a new generation of GM small-block engine featuring direct fuel injection and cylinder deactivation to increase efficiency. Officially rated at 12.23L/100km fuel use, we managed 13.1L/100km on our drive. We reckon that’s pretty good for a V8 petrol-powered 2.5tonne truck with the aerodynamics of a Besser block.

ON-ROAD RIDE & HANDLING

IF you have memories of American cars being all soft and wallowy in the suspension department, then the Trail Boss will change your mind. This variant gets a set of Rancho monotube shocks and a 25mm boost in ride height, and it rides firmly without being harsh at all. It corners flat and precisely, although the steering is a little slow when compared to smaller utes. All in all, it's a surprising package over all road conditions.