2019 Chevrolet Silverado pickup: much improved in every way

General Motors fourth-generation 2019 Chevrolet Silverado pickup is much improved in every way, I am happy to report with a bigger and better choice of powertrain combinations, more technology, and new features compared to the old model. An allnew platform is lighter, wider, and taller and rides on a longer wheelbase stretched by 3.9 inches. The front features elongated narrow headlights, a typically big Chevrolet grille and some aerodynamic aids. GM has also introduced the first power liftgate that can be moved up or down with the key fob, interior button, or manually. There is a larger corner step to access the bed and the 21 tie downs. The 2019 Silverado boasts segment leading cargo volume in the three bed lengths. Also note, the bed floor is nearly seven inches wider than the competition and deeper. An optional accessories bin on some models will offer storage bins that fit over the wheel wells, providing nearly seven cubic feet of lockable cargo space. There is multitude of options in different packages including towing equipment, heated front seats, and heated steering wheel, Bose audio, sliding rear window side steps, and a sprayon bedliner and folding tonneau cover. We tested the four wheel-drive Silverado Z71 Trailboss model with a cool black-out front grille and matching black wheels, equipped with the new 5.3-liter, the DFM V-8, engine which makes 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic. There was also a 2-inch suspension lift, and off-road tires. The engine lineup includes: a carryover 4.3-liter V-6 and six-speed auto; the carryover Active Fuel Management (AFM) 5.3-liter V-8, paired with a six-speed auto; and a new 310-hp 2.7-liter turbocharged I-4 and 3.0-liter turbodiesel I-6. 6.2-liter V-8s can disable up multiple engine cylinders when not needed, which improve fuel efficiency significantly. The 6.2L makes 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic with four-wheel drive. The Silverado is rated to haul up to 2,190 pounds (993 kg) with the 5.3-liter DFM engine or 2,100 pounds (952 kg) with the 6.2-liter engine. It can tow up to 11,600 pounds (5,262 kg) with the 5.3 or 12,200 pounds (5,534 kg) with the 6.2. Max payload capacity is 2,500 pounds (1,134 kg) with the V-6.

There has been a plethora of improvements when it comes to the interior cabin, up front, there are big, comfortable seats with available heating function, dual glove boxes, an enormous center console and huge door pockets.

Technology is upgraded to state of the art with, Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system linked to a crystal clear 8-inch screen. You can program and make commands such as menu changes and selections to control such items as the seven-speaker Bose audio setup, Wi-fi hotspot, and Bluetooth functions very quickly and easily. Both Apple Carplay and Android Auto capabilities are standard. The Silverado is well equipped with120 volt and 12 volt power and USB outlets front and rear. Back seat passenger is also well catered for, with the rear cabin gaining an additional 3 inches of legroom, and more storage including two bins integrated into the back of the rear seats. On the road, the Silverado’s 5.3-liter V8 powering, makes 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and offers tremendous acceleration. The new transmission provides smooth, jerk free transitions. Meanwhile the new Dynamic Fuel Management system enables the V8 to run on two to eight cylinders depending on engine load. The system is seamless, and works very well. Combined with a well-integrated stop-start system for the engine that saves fuel at traffic lights or, when the truck comes to a stop too, the Silverado also delivers decent fuel economy for its size and weight. This is a large hefty truck, so no apologies for its ride, it will be a tad jiggly on bumps when there is no load in the pickup bed, but smooths out considerably when loaded. It’s easy to drive actually with, a light, positive feel to the steering, good ride control and nicely controlled handling in bends.

To sum up, the new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado makes for an excellent work, leisure and sport truck with its allaround improved refinement, comfort and technology. Highly recommended.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD LT Trail Boss Z71 (Crew) Priced from $49,795 plus options. www.chevrolet.ca