By: Krish Persaud
August 19, 2023
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado lineup offers an array of choices, with the rugged ZR2 variant taking the spotlight. Recognizing the importance of addressing diverse truck preferences in a high-demand market, Chevrolet aims for profitability. While preparing for the upcoming Silverado EV pickup, the brand remains devoted to traditional pickup enthusiasts through its established models. We extend our gratitude to GM Canada for allowing us the opportunity to thoroughly experience the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado High Country.
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado High Country stands as a unique fusion of luxury and performance, claiming the top spot in the Silverado lineup. Its captivating Dark Ash Metallic exterior paint exudes confidence and captures attention.
Under the surface, our anticipation for a 6.2-litre 8-cylinder engine was met with surprise: the 5.3-litre 8-cylinder took its place. While unexpected, this V8 harmoniously partners with a 10-speed automatic transmission, forming a dynamic duo that executes seamless shifts and achieves impressive performance. With 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, the engine emits a reassuring purr during highway cruising and effortlessly handles passing or class challenges.
Enhancing the allure of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado High Country are its 22″ painted aluminium wheels with Chrome inserts, fitted with 275/50R22 all-season tires that excel across diverse road conditions. This fusion of meticulous design, precision engineering, and robust wheels introduces an undertone of sophistication, ensuring gratification on both highway and off-road journeys.
Shifting focus to visual aspects, the 2023 Silverado 1500 presents a captivating spectacle. Subtle yet impactful refinements, notably in the front fascia, offer a rejuvenated and contemporary appearance. While the recognizable LED daytime running lights retain prominence, they’ve been subtly adjusted, contributing to the model’s refined demeanour. Chevrolet artfully resonates with its loyal clientele, elevating the truck’s overall visual appeal.
Entering the 2023 Silverado High Country, you’ll be greeted by a meticulously designed dashboard that revolves around a 13.4-inch diagonal touch screen, offering seamless connectivity. Substituting the traditional gauge cluster, the 12.3-inch driver information center further elevates the High Country’s ambiance. This considerate arrangement not only enhances usability but also advances the realm of technological refinement.
As you settle into the driver’s seat of the Silverado High Country, the true essence of a full-size pickup envelops you. The well-bolstered and supportive seats strike a balance between practicality and indulgence. Infused with a touch of luxury for added comfort, distinctive features enhance its character. The sound system excels in wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, with the added bonus of built-in Google integration. While the 7-speaker Bose speaker surround system audio quality is good, it falls just short of greatness.
The steering offers a robust feel, especially at lower speeds, providing a sense of control and confidence. However, the brakes could use improvement, as they require a more deliberate touch. These traits become even more pronounced when tackling challenging weather conditions, serving as a reminder to adapt to the truck’s capabilities. Confronting demanding road situations, the Silverado High Country asserts its dependability and road prowess, even if the braking performance falls slightly short of expectations.
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado presents an array of trim levels, catering to diverse preferences and needs. These options span both 2-wheel-drive and 4-wheel-drive configurations, ensuring a suitable fit for various driving requirements. Starting with the base WT 4WD, which boasts an MSRP of $57,829, the lineup extends to the Custom trim at $62,779. For those seeking off-road prowess, the Custom Trail Boss offers capabilities at an MSRP of $64,779. Stepping up, the LT trim, priced from $65,179, presents a compelling balance of features. The RST trim, with an MSRP of $67,079, adds a sporty touch to the mix. Adventurous drivers might gravitate towards the LT Trail Boss, priced from $70,779, for its elevated capabilities. Moving into the premium segment, the LTZ trim starts at $78,179, while the top-tier High Country trim, priced from $84,929, offers unparalleled luxury and features. And for those seeking peak performance, the ZR2 trim, priced from $90,429, reigns supreme. With such a wide range of options and configurations, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado provides a solution for every kind of driver.
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado High Country shines with impressive capabilities compared to its competition. Sporting a maximum payload capacity of 2,080 pounds and a towing prowess of up to 11,000 pounds, it confidently holds its ground within its segment. These figures not only rival but often surpass many contenders in the pickup truck market. This blend of hauling and towing prowess positions the Silverado High Country as an enticing option for those seeking both versatility and capability.
Continuing its practical features, the rear bumper retains its useful step-like cutout, and now, for added convenience, a foldable handlebar graces the bed, easing access. Taking versatility further, the Multi-Flex tailgate emerges as a highlight – not only transforming into a step, but also offering an array of configurations that make the tasks of loading and unloading a seamless affair.
What we truly appreciate about the Silverado High Country are its inviting interior, resonant engine performance, and reassuring sense of solidity. However, the 5.3-litre engine’s fuel efficiency, according to Natural Resources Canada, averages 13.5 L/100 km combined, with 14.8 L/100 km in the city and 11.8 L/100 km on the highway. While not unfavourable, we hoped for slightly more fuel-efficient performance, given the smaller V8 engine. During our week of testing, we were able to achieve a combined figure of 12.9 L/100 km with light driving and a balanced mix of city and highway routes.
In the fiercely competitive pickup truck segment, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado High Country navigates a robust field of contenders. Chief rivals, such as the Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra, offer diverse attributes encompassing features, performance, and design. This array of qualities makes the decision-making journey intricate for prospective buyers.
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado High Country adeptly harmonizes luxury and utility, embodying refined design, cutting-edge technology, and robust performance. Despite supply chain challenges, the High Country remains a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to diverse drivers, from comfort seekers to those demanding capability. As the industry evolves, the Silverado High Country continues to represent a modern pickup, effortlessly fusing sophistication with practicality.
