Like all full-size pickups, Silverado comes in two and four-wheel-drive, with standard-length and extended cabs, and with short (6-1/2-foot) and long (8-foot) bed lengths. Three trim levels are available: base, LS, and LT. Full-width Fleetside beds are standard on all models, but short-bed buyers can choose a stylishly retro Sportside instead, for $795-$895, depending on trim level.
Various payload capacities are offered as well. The "half-ton" range includes both the 1500 series, with actual payloads ranging from 1593 to 2334 pounds (depending on bed, cab, and drive configuration), and the heavier-duty 2500 series with payloads in the 2612-3224-pound range. Just to make things as confusing as possible, there's also a 1500HD model with a crew cab body.
Silverado 1500 models are available with a 4.8-liter V8, a 5.3-liter V8, and a 4.3-liter V6. The 2500 is powered exclusively by a 6.0-liter V8.
Three-quarter-ton Silverados are badged 2500HD and 3500, and offer payloads up to 6089 pounds. Look for those in a separate nctd.com test drive.