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Vehicle Review: 2003 Silverado w/ Quadrasteer |
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Wednesday, 24 September 2003 |
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Page 2 of 2  XM Radio (Radio to the power of X as they say) is just getting started this year. Up until now, its availability in stock vehicles has been limited to a few Cadillacs. This year however, GM expands XM into over 23 models across all of its lines. Including the Silverado we drove. I’ll admit I wasn’t too smitten with the idea in the first place. I mean, “What could be so great about a different kind of radio?” Didn’t that phrase get used when cable TV came out as well? Look where its at now. That’s the potential of XM. Upgraded sound (nearly CD quality) with over 100 channels and the best part, coast to coast sound. You’re never out of range, well, if you don’t count a heavy storm or trees blocking your satellite feed. That’s the one main drawback to XM. Since its digital, it doesn’t just fade out and in like FM. It cuts out abruptly; often scaring you the first few times it’s done it. Weather seemed to have a large part in the signal cutting in and out. It’s not a big deal, but annoying when your listening to the comedy channel and it cuts out right at the punch line. “Did you hear about the guy driving the new truck? Well, he…” BZZZ. No more signal, then two seconds later all you hear is laughter. Oh well..
 For 2003 The Silverado takes on a totally new front end. There isn’t anything left over from previous model years. New tail lamps in the rear mark the only other noticeable changes. While the chiseled headlamps seem out of pace with the rest of the curved body, it’s not to the point of ugliness. In-fact passing one on the road gives you a new view of just how mean the new face looks. While reminiscent of the Avalanche, the new face is slightly toned down, without losing the “angry” vibes that we seemed to like so much. The 5.3L engine is the same for 03 (the GM truck engines receive extensive upgrading in 04), it moves the Silverado along quite nicely.  A Corvettesque growl puts a smile on your face during WOT runs. The ride quality of the Silverado seems to get better every time we drive one. This time around utter lack of body roll makes this Silverado a treat to drive (we’re betting the Quadrasteer had a large part in this). Only a slightly bouncy rear on washboard roads when unloaded attracted our attention. We averaged under 15mpg during our mostly city and short highway jaunts. Not exactly the best mileage we’ve seen, but when you consider how much weight it’s pulling around, we figure it’s pretty good.
 All in all we thought this Silverado was pretty neat. So, would we buy it? Well, let’s put it this way- If we had the money, you bet! Although Quadrasteer brings a hefty price tag, don’t rule it out until you drive one (or until your spouse beats you over the head with your past due credit car bills). Its a lot cooler than you think.
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