Though we typically refer to all Chevrolet pickups as Silverados, this is only partially correct. While Silverado branding was available on early C/K series pickups, the name referenced a high-level trim package rather than a standalone model. It wasn’t until 1999 that all of Chevrolet’s pickups received the Silverado model title. 

Released alongside the GMC Sierra–the Chevy pickup’s mechanical twin–the first-generation Silverado became an instant success. Sporting the iconic 5.3L Vortec and a significantly updated chassis, exterior, and interior, the first model year of the Silverado swooped up several awards, including Motor Trend’s 1999 Truck of the Year! Though the model experienced a major mid-generation facelift in 2003, the 2nd generation Silverado wasn’t released until 2007.5 when the new model took home another Truck of the Year award!  
After nearly a quarter century and four generations, the Chevrolet Silverado remains one of the United States’ best-selling pickups in constant competition with Ford and RAM. The hyper-popular pickup is known for robust reliability, unrelenting performance, and superior overall quality that’s helped Chevrolet become the most awarded brand in new vehicle quality.