Long-Term Update: 2004 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid

The Chevy Silverado (and GMC Sierra) Hybrid was previously offered only for fleets, but is now available to the general public. It's a mild hybrid that uses only a small amount of electric-motor-assist, while the vehicle is moving (the motor engages to a smooth early lockup of the torque converter to improve efficiency) deriving most of its claimed 13-percent benefit from engine shutdown while the truck is stopped. Our 4x4 half-ton model (two-wheel drive is standard), with automatic transmission, came in dark-gray metallic with matching medium-gray interior. Options include the LS Decor (no charge) and Safe and Sound ($2485) packages. Safe and Sound encompasses an AM/FM/CD/ cassette with Bose speakers, a six-way power driver's seat, one year of OnStar, and three months of XM Satellite Radio. The Light Duty Power Package ($1675) offers a Vortec 5300 V-8 engine, locking differential, and HD trailering equipment. Upgraded leather seating surfaces set us back $800, while an Autotrac active transfer case added $375. A heated, auto-dimming, power-folding, turn-signaling, power-adjustable driver-side mirror ran $215.

Aluminum wheels cost $200, and dual-climate A/C increased our total by $195. Redundant radio controls added $125, and a heavy-duty suspension at another $95. Fifth-wheel/trailer-towing wiring was $35, and the Hybrid system ran $2500 and mandated several of the above options. Package savings netted a $2000 adjustment, bringing the bottom line to $37,743 (including $850 in destination charges). Will the engine's start/stop feature add up to savings equal to its cost? We'll let you know.