2025 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 review

This massive, loveable truck that’s new to Australia is also an ‘absurd, impractical masterpiece’ that our roads just can’t handle.

Photo of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ and ZR2

A motoring journalist’s driveway is like a new car showroom, with an ever-rotating display of cars ranging from tiny hatchbacks to outrageous supercars. It means my partner gets a front-row seat, and he’s become an unofficial (and brutally honest) co-critic.

Some cars barely raise an eyebrow. Others elicit a five-minute rant about ridiculous door handles or cupholders that can’t actually hold a cup.

Then I brought home the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

MORE: Aussie car prices set to crash

Photo of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ and ZR2

At first, I wasn’t sure how he’d feel about this massive American pick-up truck. Would he roll his eyes, give me the thumbs down, or laugh at how big it is? Instead, something unexpected happened. His face lit up like a kid spotting the ice-cream truck.

“This” he said, was the “best thing you’ve ever brought home”.

And this was before I’d even taken him for a drive.

MORE: ‘Fake’ new car has Aussies baffled

Photo of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ and ZR2

But he was right – there’s something undeniably impressive about a full-size pick-up such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

This is more than a vehicle – it’s a roaring masterpiece. Absurd and impractical, it’s also completely loveable.

Available in two configurations – 1500 LTZ for $130,500 plus on-road costs, and the 1500 ZR2, priced from $138,000 plus on-roads, the Silverado is powered by a 6.2-litre V8 engine capable producing 313kW and 624Nm of torque.

It’s a close relative of what you might find in a Chevrolet Corvette.

Photo of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ and ZR2

Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Silverado has four-wheel-drive traction.

Maximum towing of 4500kg (if you fit a larger than usual tow ball) is great for pulling a horse float or boat.

It comes with towing technology such as a built-in trailer brake controller and multiple camera angles that make you look like a legend on the boat ramp.

I tested it on a variety of roads and trips, long and short, and found it’s near-perfect for adventures, tradies, or families.

Off-road, the ZR2 provides a firm ride and louder cabin noise than expected. It shines on interior space with a blend of rugged functionality and luxury.

Photo of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ and ZR2

The rear is spacious with ample space for passengers. Passengers will also have access to a climate control panel, cupholders, storage under their seat and power outlets.

The luxurious cabin comes with a premium trim, heated and ventilated seats and Bose premium sound system. It’s packed with technology including a high-resolution 13.4-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

There’s plenty of space for cargo (1781L) with smart storage solutions.

The automatic tailgate and retractable tray is convenient, particularly for transporting camping gear, bicycles and strollers.

Photo of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

While the Silverado lacks an ANCAP safety rating, it offers a suite of features including autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and surround-view camera.

But driving the Silverado, one thing became clear: Australia wasn’t made for Yank Tanks. At 5.9 metres long and over two metres wide, it’s a feat to reverse parallel park this beast.

Inner-city driving is a test of precision and patience.

With a terrible turning circle, manoeuvring this beast in urban areas is hard, though it’s not a deal-breaker.

It’s not the Silverado’s fault Australia never built their roads for serious beasts like this.

If you’ve got the space, the Silverado holds its own.

It feels empowering in the right environment, as though you really are the boss of the road

The GMSV Silverado Craig Lowndes will race in the Finke Desert Race. Pic: Supplied

.

Superior to simple machines such as Toyota LandCruiser 70-Series on the open road, it feels more refined and modern than many alternatives.

That said, the Silverado is let down somewhat by a lack of capped price servicing, a three year/100,000km warranty (five years is the modern standard) and just three years of roadside assistance, which isn’t great.

Verdict

A powerhouse and ultra-capable workhorse that’s versatile and capable, the over-the-top Silverado is oddly loveable. But its size and price may not suit all Australian buyers.

4 stars

Chevrolet Silverado

Price: From $130,500 plus on-road costs

Engine: 6.2-litre V8, 313kW and 624Nm

Warranty: 3-yr/100,000km

Safety: Not rated, 6 airbags, AEB, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot and lane departure warning

Thirst: 12.2L/100km

Towing: Up to 4500kg

Spare: Full size

Originally published as 2025 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 review