Muscle-bound V8 tough truck confirmed as part of GMSV’s updated 2023 Chevrolet Silverado range
The trail-slaying 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 tough truck will become the new hero model in GMSV’s pick-up truck range from around June next year, brandishing a 313kW V8 engine, beefed-up suspension and 33-inch mud-terrain tyres.
The pumped-up ZR2 full-size ute headlines the updated MY23 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 range that will see the LTZ Premium arrive a little earlier in the second quarter.
The refreshed Silverado portfolio is well-timed to fend off Ford Australia’s big-budget incursion into the local market with the 2023 Ford F-150, which will get full factory backing and a five-year warranty when it hits dealers from mid-2023.
Pricing for the incoming Ford F-150 is still to be announced, but the entry point for the most affordable Silverado will effectively rise in price by $14,000, given the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 will be pegged at $124,000 and the LTZ Premium at $121,000, both with on-road costs adding extra.
The current LTZ Premium is priced at $113,990 plus ORCs, marking a $7010 increase for the facelifted MY23 model, while the entry-level Trail Boss (from $106,990) will not be replaced at this stage.
The new flagship Silverado 1500 ZR2 delivers more off-road capability thanks to greater wheel articulation via the fitment of Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers and lifted suspension via new coil springs.
There’s a steel bash plate integrated into the front bumper, the design of which makes for an improved approach angle, while electronic locking differentials at both front and rear axles, unique off-road driving modes and a crawl function should ensure the big truck is a genuine rock-crusher.
Chunky 33-inch mud-terrain tyres also communicate the intent of the Silverado ZR2, but the new model is no RAM 1500 TRX or Ford F-150 Raptor rival, with no changes to its 6.2-litre petrol V8 (313kW/624Nm) or its 10-speed automatic transmission.
However, there is an all-electric Chevrolet Silverado EV in the works that will be powered by twin electric motors belting out an impressive 495kW of power. It’s still to be confirmed for Australia.
Back to the ZR2 and exterior changes include striking dual black power bulges on the bonnet, exposed red tow hooks, unique ZR2 wheel flares and 18-inch gloss black wheels, while the cabin is graced with updated black-on-grey powered leather seats.
A 12.3-inch digital screen for the driver display and a 13.4-inch central infotainment unit are expected to be part of the Australian-spec package, but it’s not clear if MY23 vehicles will be offered with GM’s new ‘Super Cruise’ hands-free autonomous driving system.
GMSV says the certification process for the new ZR2 is “underway” and that “full model features and technical specifications, including weights, towing capability, dimensions and clearances, will be released ahead of its arrival in mid-2023”.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium will be pitched as a less adventurous, more luxurious ute, bringing subtle changes but still plenty of chrome to the front-end design, plus 20-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres.
Inside, the LTZ Premium comes with jet-black leather-appointed seat upholstery and features like adaptive cruise control, a digital rear-view mirror, rear tray-view camera and 15-inch colour head-up display will be standard-issue.
“With the upcoming arrival of MY23 Silverado, we are taking the opportunity to redefine our line-up and offer a portfolio which delivers even greater levels of style and comfort, as well as a more refined interior experience, enhanced tech features and a more dynamic appearance,” said GMSV director Joanne Stogiannis.
GMSV says interested buyers can register their interest for the new MY23 Silverado models on their website or via their nearest dealer.
Despite high fuel prices, Aussie buyers in their droves are opting for US-built, converted-in-Australia full-size dual-cab pick-ups, which offer greater towing capacities than Australia’s top-selling mid-size utes such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.
How much does the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 cost?LTZ Premium – $121,000 (+$7010)ZR2 – $124,000 (new)
* Prices exclude on-road costs
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Keyword: Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 coming to Australia