Review of the All-New Chevrolet Silverado
Introduction
Chevrolet has launched the all-new Silverado in the Middle East market, offering six different trims, two of which are exclusively designed for this region. The first is the two-door RST model tailored for urban environments, while the second, which we are reviewing today, is the Silverado Trail Boss with a Regular Cab configuration, built for rugged terrain. Let’s dive into the details.
Exterior Design
Chevrolet has increased both the height and length of the new Silverado compared to its predecessor, resulting in a longer wheelbase, particularly noticeable in the two-door model, which measures approximately 3.2 meters.
Remarkably, this increase in size has not added weight; in fact, the new Silverado is lighter due to the extensive use of aluminum in its construction.
For instance, the entire hood is made of aluminum, featuring a new design to enhance aerodynamics, while effective air vents on the front sides reduce drag.
The new design introduces a fresh look for the front grille and headlights. The Trail Boss version includes LED headlights with daytime running lights, a black Chevrolet emblem illuminated around it, and a robust front bumper with fog lights.
The vehicle is equipped with the Z71 Off-Road Package, enhancing its rugged presence, complemented by a remarkable ride height. It features Rancho shock absorbers for improved suspension performance, GoodYear Wrangler tires measuring 265/65 with distinctive black 18-inch rims, an automatic rear differential lock, and underbody protection plates.
For the rear design, the new Silverado boasts innovative LED taillights that echo the front lights' design and a Chevrolet logo engraved on the tailgate. The tailgate features a more accessible step and is also reinforced with a steel bumper.
The tailgate can be opened using a button inside the vehicle or via the key fob, and it is lighter than the previous model. The bed capacity is impressive, with the two-door version accommodating 2030 liters and a maximum payload of 971 kg, while the four-door variant has a capacity of 1781 liters with a maximum payload of 916 kg.
- More tie-down locations.
- Interior lighting.
- Standard 230V power outlet.
- Bed floor protection cover.
- Steel supports with laser-etched Silverado branding.
Interior Design
Upon entering the cabin, you’ll notice similarities with the previous model, albeit with some enhancements. However, for the Trail Boss trim, I expected higher-quality materials. A softer-touch material for the dashboard and door tops would have been appreciated. The seats are covered in fabric, with only the driver’s seat featuring electric adjustments, lacking memory settings.
Technological Specifications
The truck offers keyless entry and start features, a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, which feels small by today’s standards for a 2019 vehicle.
Below the screen, we find controls for the high-quality dual-zone automatic climate control, alongside a storage compartment equipped with USB ports and ample space.
At the front of the center console, there is a dedicated wireless phone charging area, enhanced with a cooling feature to prevent overheating during wireless charging.
Below the climate control buttons are controls for the hill descent assist, a switch for the 230V outlet, additional buttons for traction control, the tailgate, and parking sensors.
The Silverado is also equipped with cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear sensors, and a rearview camera.
Driving Experience
Among the six trims of the new Silverado, there are four engine options available:
- The first engine is a 4.3-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 413 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- The second engine is a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four generating 310 horsepower and 471 Nm of torque, connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
- The third engine is a 6.2-liter V8 offering 420 horsepower and 624 Nm of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- The fourth engine is a 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and 518 Nm of torque, with two transmission options available.
Notably, the Silverado's engines feature a technology known as Dynamic Fuel Management, allowing the engine to operate on a specific number of cylinders based on demand.
The Silverado can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds, providing excellent stability at high speeds and during cornering. However, the rear suspension's stiffness resulted in noticeable vibrations.
But who cares about such aspects! Once you take the truck off the paved roads, you'll appreciate all the enhancements that come with its powerful engine.
Conclusion
Has the Silverado reached the capabilities of the Ford Raptor in this generation? Perhaps the answer is no. Has it surpassed the comfort and luxury offered by RAM trucks? Again, possibly no.
However, the new Silverado provides something significant that its competitors lack: a range of six different trims and a pricing spectrum unmatched in this vehicle segment. Prices start at 106,800 AED in the UAE, reaching up to 219,400 AED for the high-end High Country trim, while the exclusive Trail Boss variant tested today is priced at 152,700 AED.
