The WT ($17,070) is a basic work truck that comes with a driver information center, AM/FM/XM stereo, 40/20/40 split-bench, vinyl-covered front seat, dual glove boxes, two auxiliary power outlets, tire pressure monitoring system, OnStar and a four-speed automatic transmission.

The LT models start with LT1 ($24,150) which adds a cloth-covered front seat with lockable storage under the seat, a CD player and MP3 compatibility, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and outside temperature displays, 17-inch chrome-styled steel wheels and power folding and heated exterior mirrors. The more upscale LT2 ($28,065) comes with premium cloth front bucket seats with six-way power adjustment, dual-zone automatic temperature controls, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, fog lamps, aluminum wheels, chromed bumper, and a spare tire lock.

The LTZ ($31,260) adds heavy-duty trailering equipment, an automatic locking rear differential, body-colored bumpers, reclining and heated leather front seats with 12-way power, an in-dash six-CD changer with Bose speakers, turn signal indicators in the exterior rearview mirrors and heated windshield washers.

Engines include a 195-hp 4.3-liter V6 engine; a 295-hp 4.8-liter V8; a 315-hp 5.3-liter V8 in gasoline or flexfuel (gasoline and E85 ethanol, about $600 extra and deduct 4-5 mpg) versions; and a 367-hp 6.0-liter V8. Naturally, not all engines are available in all models (for example, and LS crew cab is 4.8-liter only) but they all come with a four-speed automatic.

Extended cab and crew cab models have back seats and windows in the side doors that power down. The crew cab has four front-hinged doors, much like a sport utility vehicle. The extended cab has rear access doors that are hinged at the rear but that open to 170 degrees to provide full access to the rear seating area.

The standard cab can be outfitted with a standard (6-foot, 6-inch) or long (8-foot) beds. The extended cab also offers a short (5-foot, 8-inch) bed, which is the only bed available on the crew cab.

Cab configuration and drive have significant influence on pricing. Larger cabs typically include more standard equipment, and 4WD adds $2,000-$3,000.

Five suspension setups are available: Z83 is the standard suspension and is designed for a smooth ride; Z85 is a little firmer for enhanced handling and towing; Z71 is for off-road driving and includes 18-inch wheels; Z60 is for maximum street performance and includes 20-inch wheels; NHT is for maximum towing capacity and includes high-capacity rear springs as well as all-terrain tires.

Safety features on all Silverado models dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitoring system. Options include side-curtain airbags (LT, LTZ only), StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover mitigation technology (extended cab only, standard crew), Autotrac active transfer case, Ultrasonic rear parking assist, OnStar.

Option prices vary by trim level and body style. Among them (LTZ prices shown): a cargo management system for the truck bed ($95), a power sliding sunroof ($795), 20-inch wheels/suspension ($995), a power sliding rear window ($200), rear-seat entertainment system ($1,295), and navigation system ($2,250). On lesser models: locking differential ($395), StabiliTrak electronic stability control ($425), tow packages (about $300-$750).