2019 Chevrolet Silverado: Should the Competition Be Worried?
After a brief appearance on the web last month, the new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado is finally here. GM used a preview unveiling at the 2018 Detroit Motor Show to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Chevrolet trucks.
Steel and More Steel
The new body still includes a steel bed, and the fully separate chassis uses higher-grade steel that reduces weight by 40 kg (88 lbs.) while increasing torsional rigidity by 10%. Unlike some rumours, only the door panels, hood and rear panel are made of aluminum. Despite all that steel, the result is impressive.The new Silverado is 41 mm longer, but weighs 204 kg (450 lbs.) less than the old one (when comparing the Crew Cab versions with V8 engines).
- Also: 2019 Chevrolet Silverado: The V8 that Thinks it’s a One-Cylinder
- Also: Chevrolet Celebrates 100 Years of Trucks with an All-new 2019 Silverado
Finally, a Diesel Engine
Six combinations of gas-powered V6 and V8 engines and an in-line six-cylinder diesel engine should make this vehicle’s customers very happy. For those who prefer the inimitable sound and power of a good old V8, Chevrolet is offering a new management system that can deactivate up to seven cylinders.For more details on this system, known as Dynamic Fuel Management, refer to the article about technical innovations from the 2018 Detroit Motor Show.
The basic gearbox is a six-speed automatic, while the 10-speed is reserved for the 6.2-litre V8 and the new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel six. The official numbers aren’t available yet, but Chevrolet is predicting substantial fuel savings.
Aerodynamic
According to Chevrolet, the new pickup boasts 7% less aerodynamic drag thanks in part to the spoiler at the back of the cabin and air curtains on either side of the grille. These openings route airflow around the front wheel wells and along the vehicle sides.
With more rounded and fluid lines, the new Silverado sets itself apart from the boxier old generation. But if you want that tough warrior look, go for the Trailboss versions, which are two inches higher off the ground and feature 275/65R18 all-terrain tires and a black grille.
The Chevrolet name is stamped onto the liftgate, which can be opened remotely on some versions. You’ll also spot wider and deeper cutouts on the edges of the bumper. The integrated dual exhausts add a touch of hot rod to its overall look.
Functional and Connected Cabin
The new passenger compartment of the Crew Cab versions offer 75 mm more legroom in the back. The optional bench seatback incorporates clever storage compartments, including one under the removable seat cushion.
The more modern dashboard has all the connectivity features you could ever want, such as 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging and OnStar.
Ready for 2019
If the new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado is as good on the road as it is on paper, it is going to trigger some serious head-scratching for its competitors. Eight versions will be available by the end of 2018, including the Work Truck, Custom, Custom Trailboss, LT, RST, LT Trailboss, LTZ and High Country.