Jaybird1980
Grandmaster
I don't know what the weight difference is. I'd guess less than 100 pounds, wouldn't really matter in a 5000+ pound vehicle I don't think.I'm sure it sucks gas by staying in boost all the time if you're working it. I had no idea there was a 5.3 Colorado. Like I said, I've not followed Chevy for years and midsize trucks especially.
I would suppose the benefit is unladen fuel economy and that sweet sweet torque curve of a turbo, especially down low. Elevation changes certainly benefit a forced induction motor, though that's obviously not much of a concern in Indiana. Maybe weight savings? What's the 2.7L weigh vs the 5.3? Weight savings helps payload ratings, handling, etc.
For my use profile, I don't really care about towing or hauling any great weight. I'm not terribly concerned with fuel economy, but am concerned about fuel range between fill ups, which is one reason Chevy hasn't really interested me (as well as horrendous interiors until very recently, and eaton lockers instead of a selectable locker). Why no optional larger tanks? Ram and Ford offer 33-36 gallon tanks on pretty much any non-hybrid. The Silverado, even with the 6.2L, will not offer something similar. The Tremor with the 3.5EB is down right quick. Not 'for a truck' quick but legitimately quick. I'm not going to run my Camaro down with it or anything, but highway on ramps, 2 lane passing, and various 'sprited' driving shenanigans are a pleasure. Plus it's very easy to turn to absurd power if you're willing to run 91 or 93 octane exclusively. Coming from a hemi equipped RAM with 3.92s, it felt quicker. The Raptor is quick but you notice the higher rotating mass of the bigger wheel package.
I agree with the garbage interiors, this one does seem to look better, don't know if it will be better.
I hope they did a better job on the active fuel management and Evap than they did with the others.