America’s second-best-selling vehicle of 2023 continues its legacy as a robust full-size pickup, consistently positioned just behind the iconic Ford F-150, which has dominated sales charts for decades.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 remains a reliable workhorse, ready to take on any task at construction sites, warehouses, or ranches. It’s equally capable of towing a boat, trailer, or other recreational equipment while serving as a practical family vehicle.
Whether you need it for heavy-duty work, leisure, or both, the Silverado 1500 offers an extensive range of engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, two V-8 options, and the fuel-efficient Duramax diesel. While its ride can feel rough at times, especially compared to some competitors, the larger V-8 engine provides both power and surprising refinement.
Inside, the Silverado’s cabin spans from utilitarian to luxurious, though it lacks the extravagant detailing found in the upper trims of the Ram 1500. For off-road enthusiasts, there’s the rugged Silverado 1500 ZR2 (reviewed separately), and for those looking to go electric, Chevrolet offers the battery-powered Silverado EV.
Pricing and Recommended Model
The 2025 Silverado 1500 is priced from $37,645 to $70,995, depending on trim and options.
- Work Truck: $37,645
- Custom: $44,245
- LT: $48,745
- RST: $52,145
- Custom Trail Boss: $52,445
- LT Trail Boss: $59,445
- LTZ: $59,695
- High Country: $64,695
- ZR2: $70,995
Among these, the LT trim strikes the perfect balance between price and features, introducing a more refined interior. Opting for the crew cab with a standard-length bed ensures ample space for passengers and cargo. The 5.3-liter V-8 is a better choice over the diesel engine, offering cost savings and quicker performance.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Silverado 1500 offers a diverse lineup of engines, catering to a variety of needs. Options include a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder (310 hp), a 5.3-liter V-8 (355 hp), a 6.2-liter V-8 (420 hp), and a 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six (277 hp). Across all trims, the Silverado surprises with its agility and solid brake pedal feedback.
For off-road capabilities, the Trail Boss trim features a 2.0-inch lift, aggressive tires, and hardware upgrades for tackling rough terrains. The ZR2 trim offers the most serious off-road performance.
Acceleration:
- 6.2L V-8 High Country: 0–60 mph in 5.4 seconds
- 5.3L V-8: 0–60 mph in 6.1 seconds
- Duramax Diesel: Slowest, but impressively smooth and quiet
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Silverado offers a range of interiors, from the basic Work Truck’s utilitarian setup to the High Country’s premium leather and wood-trimmed cabin. Starting at the LT trim, a redesigned dashboard and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster elevate the experience. While rear seats in the crew cab are spacious, the cushions may lack comfort.
Cargo space is versatile, with clever storage solutions and optional Multi-Flex tailgate functionality. Multiple bed lengths cater to traditionalists, though the Silverado does not include the carbon-fiber cargo bed seen in the GMC Sierra.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Silverado 1500 boasts a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds, outpacing the Ram 1500 by 550 pounds but falling 700 pounds short of the Ford F-150. With the 6.2-liter V-8, the truck reaches its maximum towing potential, while the 5.3-liter V-8 can tow up to 11,500 pounds. The turbo-four handles up to 9,500 pounds. Payload capacities range from 1,870 to 2,280 pounds.
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