2021 Chevrolet Silverado LD Walkaround

Overview
The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a widely respected full-size pickup truck, but it's not quite as desirable as its equally respected domestic competitors. The half-ton Chevy does boast stout towing capacities and an assortment of excellent powertrain choices. The latter is headlined by a 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8 that's impressively quick and surprisingly fuel efficient. The Silverado can also be equipped with an array of trailer-assist technologies and several handy features, such as a multi-function tailgate and a camera display in the rearview mirror that gives an unobstructed view of what's behind you. Unfortunately, the Chevy's cheap and uninspired interior as well as its harsh ride quality make it feel less refined than the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. While both of those alternatives offer better value, the 2021 Silverado is still a highly configurable and impressively proficient pickup.

What's New for 2021?
For 2021, Chevy adds a host of new features to the half-ton Silverado. There's a newly available Multi-Flex tailgate that opens and folds six different ways. Models with the diesel six-cylinder or turbocharged four-cylinder receive improved max-tow ratings, with the former up by as much as 1900 pounds (to 9500 total) and the latter increased by up to 2600 pounds (to 9600 total). Likewise, towing with the 2021 Silverado 1500 gets easier with a slew of trailer-assistance technologies that include a jackknife alert that does what its name suggests; a trailer-length indicator that helps the driver change lanes safely when towing; and a cargo-bed viewer that makes it easier to hook up a fifth-wheel trailer. The Silverado lineup also now features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, optional adaptive dampers on the High Country, a wider selection of paint colors, and new special-edition packages.
We recommend the well-equipped LT model with the 5.3-liter V-8, crew cab, all-wheel drive, and the standard-length bed. To make that investment even more worthwhile, we'd add a few options: the Z71 Off-Road package enhances the truck's looks and its trail capabilities; likewise, we'd choose the Safety package that adds front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Among the myriad individual options we'd recommend the heated front seats and remote start for their luxury merits.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A range of engines—including a V-6, a turbocharged four-cylinder, two V-8s, and a Duramax diesel 3.0-liter inline-six—means there's a Silverado 1500 for any job. Of the two eight-cylinder engines, the 420-hp 6.2-liter is the quickest, propelling the Silverado High Country we tested to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. For comparison, the smaller 355-hp 5.3-liter needed 6.1 seconds. The 310-hp turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder still offers decent towing capacity but needed 7.0 seconds to hit 60 mph. The diesel-powered Silverado we tested had the slowest acceleration of the bunch, but we were impressed by the engine's smooth and quiet operation. Every version of the Silverado we've driven felt smaller than its size suggests. The truck's handling is surprisingly agile and the brake pedal provides firm and reassuring feedback. Those looking for the most rugged half-ton Silverado will appreciate the Trail Boss models that feature a 2.0-inch lift, gnarly tires, and other upgrades that make taking the path less traveled easier and more entertaining.