2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Now in its fourth generation, the Chevrolet Silverado pickup was treated to a nearly complete makeover for 2019. Even so (and to Chevy’s credit), the redesign feels more like an update than a complete departure from its predecessors; i.e., the trucks still have a distinctive “Chevy” feel to them. 

Offered in numerous powertrain and body configurations interlaced with a seemingly limitless variety of trims and cosmetic and mechanical options, it’s no secret why the Silverado is one of Chevrolet’s best sellers.

The 2020 Silverado is available in regular, double and crew cab body styles with a choice of 5.8-, 6.6- and 8-foot bed lengths in either two- or four-wheel drive. (There are some stipulations to how they mix and match—the 8-foot bed is only available with the Regular Cab, for instance—so buyers will want to study up before hitting the showroom.)

Available engines include the venerable 4.3-liter V6 and 5.3-liter V8, the big dog 6.2-liter V8, and a pair of newbies: a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder that makes a surprising 310-horsepower and 348-pound-feet of torque and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six rated at 277 horsepower and an impressive 460 pound-feet of torque. 

The sweet spot (read: most popular) do-everything platform is the four-wheel-drive crew cab LT. It comes with the 5.3-liter 355-horsepower V8 and eight-speed automatic. (The 5.3 mates to a 10-speed automatic transmission on High Country 4WD and LT Trail Boss models.) With a starting price of $46,190, including the $1,595 destination charge, it’s still a lot of truck for the money.

Most notably, it includes Dynamic Fuel Management, Chevy’s fancy name for cylinder deactivation, which allows the V8 to run on as little as two cylinders (likely when unloaded and going downhill with a tailwind) and net a reliable 22 mpg highway with a light foot. That’s quite impressive for such a large truck. Expect mid-teens in city driving, though.

At first glance, the truck looks almost identical to the previous generation. However, it is, in fact, larger: the overall length is up by 1.6 inches, with a 3.9-inch longer wheelbase, making for a bigger and roomier cab. The bed is also larger. But thanks to the use of some aluminum (doors, hood, and tailgate) and high-strength steel, the truck is 450 pounds lighter.

Now, six people can squeeze into the cab since the front center storage console swings up to reveal a smallish “hidden” seat. Those lucky enough to ride in the back seats will find three more inches of legroom over the previous model, which already had class-leading legroom. 

Without passengers, the rear seats fold up and hugs the back cabin wall, opening up a vast area to store and protect expensive cargo inside the cab. Nifty storage spots like dual glove boxes and behind-seat storage are just a couple of the smart new interior features. Tech is improved, too, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Climate controls remain analog, with large knobs and buttons that operated easily without taking your eyes off the road. And the standard gauge package is excellent with highly readable analog clocks offset by light-colored rings, along with a small center LCD display for more technical information.

To the left of the steering wheel is a small pod of controls for trailer brakes, towing modes and headlights, all done with knobs and buttons instead of menus.  Often-touched surfaces feel pleasant, but some of the buttons and trim pieces have a plasticky feel.

Ride quality is improved as well. The wider platform helps the truck handle more confidently in corners. And when it’s time for work, the Silverado is ready for duty. More tie-down points in the bed allow for better load placement flexibility, and the added space is welcome. And speaking of options, there’s an almost unlimited list of add-ons, many of which can be found at more affordable prices in the aftermarket. Choose wisely.