We were surprised at the lack of specialized interior bits in the Silverado SS. Given the parts bins that Chevy could have raided, the SS' lounge is as stock as a rock. Negatives include the center-stack cubby insert that kept falling out, headliner glue wept above the driver's head, and the drivers' seat rocked--unless you adjusted it to the sweet spot.
Driver and passenger receive power heated seats and one-touch express windows. We're thankful for the redundant radio controls on the wheel, as well as the trip-computer functions. Keeping with the super-sport theme, white-faced gauges are easy to read, and we love the tranny temp gauge that keeps you informed of potential thermo meltdown when towing. GM threw in AC vents and cupholders for rear occupants, but we wouldn't put anyone taller than five feet back there, as there isn't much leg or foot real estate.
With the 1500 Hemi, Dodge sees it merely as an engine option, so you get the basic interior configuration. You'd have a problem if you couldn't read the white-faced gauges with neon-red pointers. We also like the super-clean center stack, its HVAC and stereo controls perfectly placed for adjustment while underway. Like the Chevy, there are redundant radio controls on the wheel, as well as cruise functions.
Seating for two is generous, and three is possible. When traveling as a duo, the massive center console (with integrated power point) may be lowered to carry a ton of incidentals or double as a desk. Flip the seats forward, and there are bins for carrying small bags or groceries. For daily driving and usability, we'd opt for the Quad Cab, which makes the truck versatile enough for five people and their gear.
Our regular-cab tester was optioned with the Infinity seven-speaker AM/FM/CD player that's definitely worth the $750 up charge. Power pedals and seats make finding the perfect driving position simple.
Suspensions
Sport trucks are always a mixed bag in the suspension department, especially when big tires and wheels are factored into play. Even though our F-150 Super Crew was emblazoned with no less than eight large H-D badges, we kept looking for the Lincoln logo, as the ride is decidedly more Town Car than pickup. It didn't matter what type of terrain we traveled, the F-150 squashed road imperfections before they were felt in the cabin, yet there was a controlled sense that you knew what was happening underfoot. Its 4500-pound tow rating is 3000 pounds below the Silverado, and it's obvious out on the highway as rear-axle jounce was virtually non-existent, even in big-rig lanes.