Silverado Performance Concept: Hi-Po Pickup Returns!
Chevy makes up for lost time with the Silverado Performance Concept, a truck with the heart of a Camaro ZL1.
It’s been years since Chevrolet offered buyers a two-wheel drive, high performance version of the Silverado pickup. Heck, it’s been years since you could buy a hi-po Silverado in any configuration. And that’s a real shame. For a brand that’s pumped out exciting rides like the 454 SS, they’ve largely ignored this segment of the market for a long time. But that might be coming to an end soon, as we’re seeing from this insane new ride – the Silverado Performance Concept.
Chevy’s return to the street truck scene begins under the hood, where you’ll find the typical 5.3-liter V8. But the small block has a proverbial cherry on top in the form of the same LT4-style intercooled supercharger system as the Camaro ZL1 and Corvette Z06. That alone adds a cool 100 hp, giving the Silverado Performance Concept 455 ponies to work with. Chevrolet has also added a cold-air induction system and cat-back exhaust to the mix.
Six-piston Brembo brakes replace the stock units up front, and the Silverado Peformance Concept rolls on 22-inch custom aluminum wheels. Other special exterior clues include Satin Steel Grey paint, blacked-out bowtie emblems, and custom graphics. The hood, air ducts, and lower fascia are unique to the truck, as well as the smoked headlights and taillights. Inside, you’ll find a black suede-wrapped steering wheel, carbon-fiber Z71 gauges, and a data logger app.
All together, the Silverado Performance Concept is one sweet package that’s long overdue. Silverado fans have been forced to sit on the sidelines and admire trucks like the Ram Rebel and Ford Raptor. Chevy is mum on the production potential for this hi-po pickup, but it sure would be a nice sendoff for the current generation Silverado. Not to mention a heck of a comeback for the two-wheel drive street truck.
