The Chevy Silverado 1500 was brand new for 2019 and burst on the scene in our truck lineup here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse. One of the fascinating new powertrains introduced was a diesel inline-6 that's EPA-rated at 33 mpg on the highway, as well as a turbocharged 4-cylinder that boasts a 9,600-lb towing capability. More than other trucks, the Chevy Silverado leans on tradition and provides America's hard-working backbone the trusty rides they need to always get the job done.
The 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 is definitely powerful enough to run up Lookout Mountain and back, and you can still get your hands on the much more robust 6.2-liter V8. It cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and brings along a 10-speed automatic transmission, a slight advantage over the 5.3-liter RST and its 8-speed. The RST trim is, for the most part, the most inexpensive means of graduating to the 6.2-liter and the 10-speed transmission.
The Car and Driver team loved what they considered a “budget hot rod” by snagging up the RST's Redline package: it offers up blacked-out trim with red accents, 20-inch black wheels, bed liner side steps, a Bose premium audio system, a driver-assistance package, and the Multi-Flex tailgate. During official track testing, the 4-wheel drive crew cab hit 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. It also conquered the quarter-mile in 14.0 seconds while cruising at around 100 mph. The closely-spaced ratios in the transmission pair well with the massive V8, and the Eaton automatic locking rear differential is an ideal additive.
Internet reviews are the best way to get honest opinions on a product. One driver wanted to replace a 2020 Ford XLT because of its underwhelming mileage and towing capacity. He took the new Silverado on a trip and ranked the 580 miles on one tank, comfort, and capability all as a solid A+!
Instead of chunky tires and heightened suspension, the RST offers more practical and daily-use, all the while retaining the awesome utility a truck offers. The 2021 Silverado RST will soon be blazing up Missouri back roads as America enjoys the much-needed return of outdoor freedom!
