One of the benefits of a full-hybrid is the ability to drive in electric-only mode for a period of time. The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, under gentle acceleration, can drive up to 30 mph without switching to the gasoline engine. While highway fuel economy is unimpressive, city mpg is really good for a truck.
If you’re looking for a pickup truck, your choices are really limited if you’re looking for a hybrid. It’s between the Silverado and GMC brother Sierra, and Silverado costs a hair less. We like the fuel economy, but we don’t like the slow acceleration and limited towing capacity. It should also be noted that the Silverado Hybrid is available only with a crew cab.
The Silverado Hybrid comes equipped with the 6.0-liter, V-8 and 2 60-kilowatt electric motors. Together they deliver 379 horsepower. Acceleration is sluggish and towing capacity is rated at 6,100 pounds, which is between 1,000 and 3,600 less than a Silverado crew with the 5.3-liter V-8.
While the Silverado Hybrid does come equipped with rear-seat child anchors, this isn’t going to be an ideal family vehicle. Rear space is cramped, and all the cargo capacity is in the 5-foot, 9-inch open cargo box.
The Silverado Hybrid's ride and handling are a bit sloppy, and acceleration is slow. There is some fun, however, in the standard tech features, including Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation (first 6 months free) and SiriusXM Satellite radio (first 3 months free).
The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid comes equipped with front airbags, seat-mounted front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, traction control, stability control and OnStar. The up-level model adds parking sensors and a rearview camera.
