The competition among pickups is fierce, like in the SUV segment, but the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 keeps on trudging ahead. For 2019, the popular pickup has been totally revamped. Where do we begin? The list is endless. There’s the wheelbase, which sees an uptick of 3.9 inches. So does the length increase by 1.6 inches. Available as a 5’ 8” or 6’.6” box, there are now 12 fixed tie-downs that can withstand 500-pound weight, which is twice the capacity of the 2018 model.
Engine choices? There are several that you can pick to your liking; such as a 2.7-liter 4 turbo or the 3.0-liter 6 turbodiesel. Or, opt for the high-end LTZ crew cab version, our test drive, which comes with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine cranking out 420 horsepower @ 5600 rpm. The potent engine enables the massive truck weighing 5,090 pounds to effectively and equally traverse rugged terrain, as well as tackle peak-hour traffic on city roads. The 10-speed auto gear box is smooth and efficient so you can save at the gas station. Also lending a further hand toward that effort is a Dynamic Fuel Management system, which essentially disengages half of the cylinders at a steady pace or at slower speeds. And, if you need to haul a sailboat or another car for that matter, tow capacity is an astounding 12,200 pounds.
The 88-pound lighter, fully boxed steel frame of the Silverado touts the already robust appearance of the Silverado. A crystal-clear six-gauge instrument cluster, easy-to-use climate and entertainment controls, and of course comfortable seats greet the driver and occupants. Hands-free navigation, phone and audio controls are within easy reach, thanks to an ample 8-inch color touchscreen. The huge interior offers plenty of storage space, including under-floor of the 60/40 rear seat. That doesn’t count the glovebox; no, make those two gloveboxes, stacked atop the other. Rear-seat passengers are in for a treat, of sorts; their legroom is up by 3 inches. The center console bin can consume a laptop, as well as other personal belongings. Other no-cost goodies are a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, dual auto a/c and a six-speaker audio system.
Fear not about your safety, since the Silverado comes with dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes, stability and traction control, trailer sway control, hill start assist, rearview camera, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights, all at no extra cost to the buyer.
This splendid practical ride boasts a powerful performance, imposing tow and cargo capacity, and a cavernous cabin. As we mentioned at the outset, despite facing tough rivalry, the 2019 overhaul makes the Silverado a nearly impeccable pickup.
SILVERADO 1500 4WD (LTZ)
Tires: P275/60R20
Wheelbase: 147.4 inches
Length: 231.7 inches
Height: 75.5 inches
Width: 81.2 inches
Suspension: independent coil-over-shock front, solid axle rear
Steering: electric power
Fuel capacity: 24 gallons
Base price: $48,700
Price as tested: $57,280
Test drive the Silverado at Maus Family Chevrolet, 16414 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, call (813) 448-3949 or visit MausFamilyChevrolet.com.
Published January 16, 2019
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