Model tested: 2019 Chevy Silverado 4WD LT DBL
Engine: 2.7-liter turbo
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
EPA ratings: 19/city, 22/highway, 20/combined
Base price: $40,200
As tested: $49,369
Overview: An all-new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 boasts substantial changes that should raise the bar for the full-size pickup segment that includes an all-new Ram 1500 and the innovative Ford F-150.
Walkaround: Available in eight trim levels — some boasting abundant amounts of chrome, some focusing on body color, and others showcasing black accents — this is just the tip of iceberg of potential trim choices. Value trims have “Chevrolet” stamped in the center bar, with a small bowtie on the lower right. On upscale models, the Chevrolet bowtie is front and center. This review focuses on the midlevel LT Double Cab we tested. The rear fender wells are stamped separately from the bed, widening the bed at the bottom by reducing the amount of space lost at the bottom edges. A power tailgate operable from the cab, key fob or by hand is also available and the toe holes in the rear bumper are enlarged. There’s more task lighting, a dozen tie-downs — some upgraded to a 500-pound rating — and a 120-volt outlet available.
Interior: One major positive of the Silverado is its cabin. It has a 40/20/40 bench seat with armrests, covered storage and four-way driver and passenger adjustments up front, plus a 60/40 folding rear bench. Standard are an 8-inch diagonal touchscreen infotainment display, rearview camera, air conditioning, AM/FM/XM satellite radio and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Under the Hood: While Chevy offers a total of six powertrains, our test driver featured the 2.7-liter turbo that delivers 310 ponies to the pavement with 348 pound-feet of torque. It’s married to an eight-speed automatic and single-speed transfer case.
Behind the Wheel: Built on a fully boxed frame of high-strength steel, the Silverado has a variety of materials — steel, aluminum, carbon-composite — and GM used different manufacturing methods to optimize engineering. The 2.7-liter powerplant is surprisingly efficient, moving the Silverado just fine. Handling and braking are acceptable for a full-sized pickup. Aerodynamics include a grille utilizing air curtains, like those on the Camaro, that reduce drag by directing air around the front wheels.
Bottom Line: The LT isn’t the top-of-the-line Chevy pickup, but it will serve a wide variety of needs for a lot of folks. At almost $50,000, possibly a bit overpriced.
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