The bottom line on the Chevy C/K pickup is the power of the Vortec engines,an area where GM's full-size trucks hold a distinct edge over the new Ford F-Series. For a long time, truck buyers planning to haul big loads were almost forced to reckon with the expense--both initially and in fuel consumption--of a big-block. That's no more. The 5.7-liter Vortec V8 offers a very real alternative, with plenty of power for all but the most outrageously heavy work, yet it delivers decent fuel economy for daily driving. In case you'll be dealing with only medium loads, the 5.0-liter Vortec V8 offers performance comparable to or better than the 5.7-liter engine sold two years ago. If your needs dictate you go the other way, the 7.4-liter V8 churns out 290 hp and 410 lb.-ft. of torque. For diesel fans, the 6.5-liter turbodiesel offers 190 hp and 385 lb.-ft. of torque and is smoother and quieter than the Cummins turbodiesel offered in the Dodge Ram. While the competition has gone off on stylistic frontier busting, the Chevy and GMC pickups have retained the high middle ground. They still look clean and modern and are a proven commodity with hundreds of thousands of satisfied owners. |
