2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 Review

　　

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review

byBrent RomansSenior Manager, Written Content

　　Brent Romans has worked in the automotive industry since 1996. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Brent is a senior manager of written content at zzdcar and previously contributed to publications such as Super Street and Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road. His personal car is a 2019 BMW M2 Competition, which he bought for its ideal combination of performance, style and practicality.

　　For the second year in a row, Chevrolet's full-size light-duty pickup truck gets a round of updates designed to add value and make it more appealing in comparison to primary rivals from Ford and Ram. Highlights include a new configurable tailgate (the Multi-Flex) that opens a variety of ways plus upgraded infotainment and trailer-towing technology. There's also an adaptive suspension option for the top trim level that should smooth out the ride quality.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$208/mo  for Silverado 1500 Work Truck

　　Silverado 1500 Work Truck

　　Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $29,300 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Double Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $33,200 MSRPWork Truck 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $33,900 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $35,600 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab 6.6 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $35,900 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $36,500 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $38,900 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $39,200 MSRPCustom 4dr Double Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $36,500 MSRPCustom 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $38,900 MSRPCustom 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $39,800 MSRPCustom 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $42,200 MSRPCustom 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $42,500 MSRPLT 4dr Double Cab SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $40,300 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $42,700 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab 6.6 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $43,000 MSRPLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $43,600 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $46,000 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $46,300 MSRPCustom Trail Boss 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $41,700 MSRPCustom Trail Boss 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $44,100 MSRPCustom Trail Boss 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) - $44,400 MSRPRST 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $43,900 MSRPRST 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $44,600 MSRPRST 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $47,200 MSRPRST 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (2.7L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $47,500 MSRPLT Trail Boss 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 10A) - $48,900 MSRPLT Trail Boss 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 10A) (Most Popular) - $51,500 MSRPLT Trail Boss 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 10A) - $51,800 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A) - $49,400 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A) - $52,700 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A) - $53,000 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A) - $53,900 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 10A) - $57,400 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 10A) - $57,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　Chevy does give you a lot of choice for the 2021 Silverado 1500. It comes in regular-, extended- and crew-cab styles with a short, standard or long bed. Eight main trim levels are available, including the Trail Boss version that aims to capitalize on the lifted off-road truck trend. Four engines are available too, including a diesel-powered six-cylinder and Chevy's tried-and-true 5.3-liter V8.

　　Is the Silverado the truck for you? Maybe. The Ram 1500 bests it in our expert evaluation ratings, and Ford's new 2021 F-150 looks like it has the potential to raise the bar for the whole class. But check out our Silverado Expert Rating to learn more about this truck's pros and cons.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.2

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the Silverado 1500 drive? We tested a Silverado crew cab (High Country trim) with the 5.3-liter V8, 4WD and eight-speed automatic. Acceleration and braking are average but totally sufficient for daily driving or towing. Our test truck covered 60 mph in 7 seconds from a standstill at our test track. An equivalent F-150 is a little quicker, but there's nothing wrong with the Silverado's power. Around town, the transmission shifts smoothly and makes the most of the engine's low-end torque.

　　The truck tracks straight on the highway, but the steering effort is a bit too light. Handling is secure, and body roll is held nicely in check as you drive around turns. But midcorner bumps can upset the Silverado pretty easily. Going off-road? A regular 4WD Silverado will do OK, but consider getting the Z71 off-road option package or the Trail Boss trim level to enhance its potential.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Silverado 1500? The Silverado's seating isn't quite as plush as the seats in the F-150 or Ram 1500, but there's enough padding and support to keep you comfortable on long drives. The ride is relatively smooth on the highway, and the truck ably absorbs most small impacts. But the truck can get bouncy when you drive on roads that have a lot of bumps and dips.

　　The climate system can easily heat and cool the cabin, but operating it can be a little tricky because a lot of the control buttons are small. We really like the optional ventilated and split-heated front seats (separate settings for the seatback and seat cushion), a GM-exclusive feature. Engine noise is nicely muted until you go hard on the throttle, at which point it gets a bit unpleasant.

　　

Interior

7.0/10

　　How’s the interior? The Silverado crew cab has plenty of space for four or five adults, even tall ones. The back seat is absolutely massive and offers lots of legroom. Getting in and out is relatively easy, but the rear doors don't open as wide as we'd like. The power-adjustable seats have enough range of motion to accommodate almost any driver, and the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel offers plenty of adjustment range.

　　There's a familiar look to the layout of the controls; it's the same basic design Chevy used in the previous-generation Silverado. They're easy to use but don't give off a particularly modern vibe. Another demerit relates to visibility — the tall and broad hood and thick windshield roof pillars impede your view ahead.

　　

Technology

7.5/10

　　How’s the tech? The Silverado is available with a lot of high-tech features. But the key word is "available." Systems such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist can only be had from the LTZ trim and up.

　　Considering the Silverado's size and weight, the adaptive cruise system follows the vehicle ahead at an unusually close distance in the shortest setting. The surround-view parking camera system is helpful, though the display could stand to be sharper. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. We were able to connect phones quickly and easily access music.

　　As for the High Country trim's power up/down tailgate, most of our test team thought it little more than a novelty.

　　

Towing and Storage

8.0/10

　　How are the towing and storage? We tested a 5.3-liter V8-powered, short-bed 4WD crew-cab truck that had the standard 3.23 axle gearing. This configuration provided an impressive 9,600-pound tow rating. The payload capacity for this truck was a similarly strong 2,060 pounds. As for the bed itself, it's a bit longer, deeper and wider than its rivals, and it has more tie-downs.

　　The Silverado's boxy center console contains multiple pockets, but we'd expect more space given that this truck has a column-mounted gear shifter. For family duty, the crew cab's back seat has two sets of lower car seat anchors and three top tethers, so child safety seats will fit in any of the three positions. But loading the seats, not to mention the kiddos, might be difficult due to the truck's ride height.

　　

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

　　How’s the fuel economy? The Silverado High Country we tested had the 5.3-liter V8 mated to a 10-speed automatic and 4WD, which earns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in combined city/highway driving. We found that number to be reasonably achievable in the real world. The best fuel economy for the Silverado comes from the available diesel-fueled six-cylinder.

　　

Value

6.5/10

　　Is the Silverado 1500 a good value? The Silverado isn't outrageously expensive, but it is priced higher than its key rivals without offering any advantage in features, style or interior quality. The buttons and dashboard plastics are similar to those in the previous-gen truck: sturdy but somewhat cheap-looking. Chevy's warranty coverage is average, though you do get the first scheduled maintenance for free.

　　

Wildcard

7.0/10

　　Full-size trucks such as the Silverado aren't necessarily fun to drive. But with its commanding view of the road, lots of towing power and a brutish front-end styling, the Silverado can put a smile on your face. However, the interior looks dated and borrows many pieces and design cues from the previous generation. It may or may not be a personality you want.

　　

Which Silverado 1500 does zzdcar recommend?

Chevrolet builds a 2021 Silverado for nearly any purpose, but the LT and LT Trail Boss trims are where style, value, equipment and capability intersect. You can get the LT trim with extended-cab and crew-cab styles, four of the Silverado's most appealing engines, and with a choice between cloth and leather seats. A Safety package adds parking sensors and a blind-spot monitor system with rear cross-traffic alert.

　　

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 models

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a full-size pickup available in eight trim levels: Work Truck (WT), Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ and High Country. Like most full-size trucks, the Silverado is offered in varying cab and bed configurations including two-door regular cab, four-door extended cab (Double Cab), and four-door crew cab with full-size rear doors and generous rear-seat room.

　　Depending on cab selection, the three available bed sizes are an 8-foot-long bed, a 6.5-foot bed and a shorter 5-foot-8-inch bed. Chevrolet also offers five available engines for the Silverado 1500:

　　4.3-liter V6 engine (285 horsepower, 305 lb-ft of torque) with a six-speed automatic transmission Turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine (310 hp, 348 lb-ft) with an eight-speed automatic transmission 5.3-liter V8 engine (355 hp, 383 lb-ft) with an eight-speed automatic transmission 6.2-liter V8 engine (420 hp, 460 lb-ft) with a 10-speed automatic transmission Turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine (277 hp, 460 lb-ft) with a 10-speed automatic transmission We've noted which engines come standard on the particular trims but note that you can commonly get a different engine as an option. Rear-wheel drive is typically standard, with four-wheel drive being an option. Other Silverado feature highlights include:

　　WT

　　The basic Silverado Work Truck has:

　　V6 engine 17-inch steel wheels Locking tailgate Vinyl seat upholstery Rubber floor covering Air conditioning Power windows and door locks 7-inch touchscreen Bluetooth Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration Six-speaker audio system Custom

　　Custom trim improves the Silverado's appearance and upgrades you to the extended- or crew-cab configuration. It includes:

　　Body-colored trim 20-inch aluminum wheels Remote engine start LED cargo bed lighting Power-locking and power-release tailgate with assisted lift Power and heated mirrors Floor carpeting Cloth seat upholstery Satellite radio capability Wi-Fi capability Trailering package Hitch guidance lines for backup camera Custom Trail Boss

　　The Trail Boss treatment equips the Custom with the look and capability of an off-road truck by adding:

　　Four-wheel drive Z71 off-road suspension package 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires Automatic locking rear differential LT

　　The Silverado LT builds on the Custom trim with:

　　Turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine Chrome exterior trim 17-inch alloy wheels LED headlights Dual-zone automatic climate control 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat Heated front seats Heated tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel 8-inch touchscreen RST

　　The RST trim adds a sport-truck appearance to the Silverado LT, as well as these features:

　　Body-colored exterior trim 18-inch aluminum wheels LED foglights Chevy also offers the All Star Edition (possibly named the Texas Edition, depending on where you live) package for the LT and RST that adds a few more standard features.

　　LT Trail Boss

　　This version of the Trail Boss builds on the Custom variant with LT trim plus:

　　5.3-liter V8 engine Auxiliary transmission oil cooler Heavy-duty battery Bucket front seats with a center console LTZ

　　More upscale than other Silverados, the LTZ builds on LT trim with:

　　5.3-liter V8 engine 20-inch alloy wheels Power tailgate Power-sliding rear window Bucket front seats with center console 10-way power-adjustable front passenger seat Leather upholstery Ventilated front seats Heated rear seats Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Advanced Trailering System (trailer maintenance reminder and other trailer monitoring features) Trailer brake controller (allows adjustment of a trailer's brakes from the cab) Front and rear parking sensors Higher-definition backup camera Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing) High Country

　　For maximum luxury, the Silverado High Country offers:

　　Spray-in bedliner Digital driver information display Navigation system Seven-speaker Bose audio system Wireless phone charging Lane departure warning Chevrolet increased standard equipment levels for most 2021 Silverado trim levels. Many features offered on upper trim levels are available on the lower ones as packages or stand-alone options. Numerous trailer monitoring systems that allow for trailer tire-pressure sensors or trailer rearview-camera connections are also available.

　　An optional Safety package (available on LT, RST, LT Trail Boss) adds front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Safety package II (LTZ and High Country only) includes everything in the standard Safety package equipment plus:

　　Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Silverado and the car in front) Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios) Lane keeping assist (steers the Silverado back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker) The Technology package (LTZ and High Country only) adds a head-up display, a rear camera mirror, a 360-degree parking camera, a bed-view camera and provisions for two trailer cameras.

　　

2021 Silverado 1500 Highlights

Type: Crew CabRegular CabDouble CabCrew Cab

　　Trim: Work TruckCustomLTRSTCustom Trail BossLTZLT Trail BossHigh CountryWork Truck

　　

Base MSRP	$35,600
Engine Type	Flex-fuel (ffv)
Combined MPG	17 MPG
Cost to Drive	$208/month
Seating	6 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	9,700 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles