Both the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups are available with 5.3- or 6.2-liter V8s, providing these large trucks with fairly rapid acceleration. The former produces a healthy 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the latter produces considerably more and is rated at 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. Regardless of which engine you opt for, both offer an appealingly muscular but slightly muted V8 growl.
Those seeking a more evocative-sounding exhaust note from their V8-powered Silverado or Sierra will be pleased to hear that AWE Tuning has developed an all-new exhaust suite for these pickups. Previously, the tuning company has given the Ford Bronco more power and a mellifluous sound, but that's got nothing on this pair of sweet-sounding trucks.
The upgrade consists of several changes for both pickup trucks. Both engine options gain three-inch cat-back configurations, with several unique tip options on offer. Flat bumper tip options come with five-inch double-walled, straight-cut tips while bumpers with cutouts receive four-inch double-walled, slash-cut quad tips. The quad tip outlets fitted to trucks with bumper cutouts feature ball & socket joints to ensure perfect fitment. Both are available in either a chrome silver or diamond black finish.
Exclusive to 6.2-liter models is the tailored "H-pipe" which, says AWE Tuning, provides an even throatier, muscle car-like burble. A rather clever innovation fitted to the exhaust systems is the company's patented drone-canceling 180 Technology, which muffles unwanted noises and provides a pure, enjoyable exhaust note. Handmade from T304L stainless steel, the Philadelphia-based shop says the system is "engineered for life" and "ready for any encounter on the planet."
"We're calling this one the rumble revolution. We've captured some adrenaline-pumping new tones from the 5.3L and the 6.2L and included some high-five features for owners as well as installers... for the DIY crowd, we have accounted for any potential tolerance differences that can be common on these trucks. It's a major win all around," said AWE's Jesse Kramer.
It's not just American trucks that the company provides improved exhaust systems for. Last year, we reported on this absolutely glorious-sounding F80 BMW M3.
Interestingly, the company makes no mention of a power increase for the Silverado and Sierra, but we're guessing the upgrade does provide a marginal power boost. But even if power remains the same, the rich sound of these V8s makes the upgrade totally worth it. Both systems come with a perfect fitment guarantee and a lifetime warranty, letting you enjoy your sweet exhaust note with complete peace of mind.