Chevy Silverado TRAIL BOSS

The redesigned Chevy Silverado is exactly what you think it is: The next step forward in a great line of Chevy trucks. But it’s a big step.

Numbers: the 2019 Silverado is about 450-pounds lighter than the outgoing model (crew-cab V8 vs crew-cab V8). And even though it’s lighter, it’s physically larger… both in wheelbase and in overall length. The 2019 wheelbase can be up to 3.9-inches longer depending on model. And the overall length (end to end) is 1.6-inches longer. So you get a bit more cargo/interior room over the last model, while simultaneously getting an improved, more stable ride with the longer wheelbase. 

The 2019 frame comes with a 10% increase in torsional rigidity. And – the bed is almost 7-inches wider at it’s widest point… offering a new best-in-class volume. Chevy also improved the braking system on the 2019 Silverado, increasing the size of rotors & pads. 

There are 6 engine/transmission configurations available:

• 4.3L V-6 with Active Fuel Management and a 6-speed automatic
• 5.3L V-8 with Active Fuel Management and a 6-speed automatic
• New 2.7L turbo I-4 with Active Fuel Management and an 8-speed automatic
• New 5.3L V-8 with new Dynamic Fuel Management and an 8-speed automatic
• New 6.2L V-8 with new Dynamic Fuel Management and a 10-speed automatic
• New 3.0L I-6 turbo-diesel and a 10-speed automatic (later availability)

The Dynamic Fuel Management mentioned above on the new versions of the available 5.3L and 6.2L V-8 engine – expands cylinder-deactivation capability with 17 cylinder activation combinations to optimize performance and efficiency in all driving conditions/scenarios. 

Our test model was the Silverado TRAIL BOSS, which includes the Z71 Off Road package, a 2” suspension lift, rear lockers, Rancho shocks, skid plates, and 18” wheels with Goodyear all-terrain tires. The TRAIL BOSS is ready to work, it’s ready to play, and it’s comfortable for all the errands in between. 

There are some clever bells & whistles in the 2019 Silverado: like storage pockets inside the rear seat, a new infotainment system, and an electronic tailgate (just push a button & it drops). But there are also the familiar Chevy queues: like a column shifter. 

Gone are the squared-off wheel wells. But with that, comes the ability to add bigger tires… without having to add a ton of lift to clear them. 

If you like fast cars… keep at least one of them around, because this new Silverado will not fill that void. But – it does fill a different kind of void. And if you feel like this truck would make life easier & more comfortable – you’re not wrong.