In 2023, as automakers are projected to sell nearly 2,000,000 new pickup trucks in the USA, it becomes evident that America’s long-standing romance with full-size trucks is stronger than ever. It’s not just about utility, but also about identity. Across the U.S., these trucks symbolize strength, freedom, and the rugged individualism that’s woven into the fabric of the country. Their rising sales figures attest to their deep-rooted connection with the American psyche. Their popularity has transcended practicality, becoming a cultural touchstone that tells a story of capability and adventure.
2022 Chevrolet Silverado High Country
Chevy
This love affair became vividly apparent during a recent family trip to Northern Michigan for Labor Day. The journey was marked by an emblem of this American tradition: the Chevy Silverado High Country. Labor Day, a celebration of the American workforce’s dedication, resilience, and spirit, is mirrored in the very essence of the pickup truck. These trucks symbolize not only the strength of America’s hardworking backbone but also the adventurous spirit that drives the nation forward.
Mackinaw Bridge
AFP via Getty Images
Walking across the Mackinac Bridge on Labor Day only amplified this symbolism. The bridge itself, an engineering marvel, stands as a testament to American ingenuity, hard work, and the relentless drive to connect and explore. Much like the Silverado, it embodies the spirit of adventure, ambition, and the unwavering belief in what is possible through determination and collaboration.
Walking across the Mackinac Bridge
Kyle Edward
The drive took us through picturesque landscapes, culminating in a walk across the iconic Mackinaw Bridge. As we journeyed, the 6.2L V8 of the Silverado High Country resonated a powerfully deep engine note, thanks to its active exhaust. This roar, set against America’s vast wilderness, offered a visceral experience of sheer power and it wasn’t just auditory allure; with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seamless 10-speed automatic, the Silverado ensured every acceleration, whether onto open highways or winding byways, was effortless. Its performance was a testament to smooth, responsive engineering. While other automakers replace their larger engines with smaller turbocharged units, it’s nice to see Chevy still offering up a large naturally aspirated V8 in their truck.
Silverado High Country
Kyle Edward
The practicality of the Silverado High Country is undeniable. With a max towing capacity of 13,300 lbs, it stands ready to haul large trailers, 5th wheels, and just about anything you’d need for a grand family adventure. This is the essence of what America cherishes in a full-size pickup: the blend of power and utility, of adventure and responsibility.
2022 Chevrolet Silverado High Country
Chevy
One of the trip’s highlights was experimenting with the truck’s Super Cruise feature. As the road stretched ahead, we engaged this advanced tech, allowing for a truly hands-free highway driving experience. It’s moments like these—when innovation enhances the journey—that you appreciate the modern one of the few systems available in any car today that allows you to have your hands off the wheel and doesn’t require touching the wheel to stay engaged. It does however, require you to keep your eyes on the road, keep them off too long and the system will remind you to keep watching the road ahead.
2022 Chevrolet Silverado High Country
Chevy
The High Country trim stands as the apex of the Silverado lineup. When equipped with the 6.2L V8 and the crew cab configuration, it’s priced at $70,240. This model offers a spacious interior akin to an SUV, enhanced by features like natural wood trim and a space-saving electronic gear shifter.
Silverado High Country
Kyle Edward
The cabin boasts a high-quality leather-wrapped steering wheel, further elevating the driving experience. For technology enthusiasts, the large infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring connectivity is both seamless and intuitive.
2022 Chevrolet Silverado High Country interior
Chevy
By the time our Labor Day journey through Northern Michigan concluded, it was evident that the Silverado High Country was not merely a mode of transportation. It served as a steadfast companion, reminiscent of the many American road trips undertaken in pickups. These trucks, as our adventure highlighted, are more than just vehicles. They are partners in our pursuits, champions of our dreams, and enduring symbols of the American spirit.
Having been born in the Detroit area, I grew up with motor oil running through my veins. Wanting to put my passion to good use, at age sixteen I co-founded and hosted an automotive-focused YouTube channel, the Oakland Car Review, which garnered millions of views during its run.
Transitioning toward written content, I was an early-stage partner in DRIVE Magazine and eventually oversaw its conversion to a fully digital platform. I now lead web operations at ThisIsDrive.com. My work extends to other outlets as well, these include some well-known names, such as Kelly Blue Book’s technology-focused Ride.Tech website.
I remain up-to-date on the latest industry happenings by doing hours of research per week so that I can keep you informed. I am pleased to have been published on automotive topics for over five years and I look forward to bringing my passion for the industry and cars themselves to Forbes readers.
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2023-09-24 20:55:00
#Americas #Love #Affair #FullSize #Pickup #Trucks #Northern #Michigan #Adventure
