Review: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab Long Box 4WD

Unexpectedly outsold by a newly redesigned Ram 1500 in 2019, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab Long Box 4WD had to quickly step up its game. However, the Ford F-150 is still the front-runner in this segment.

These changes to the Chevy Silverado included a new 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 engine option.  Nevertheless, the turbocharged 2.7-liter 4-cylinder gas engine and 6.2-liter V-8 engine are more widely available. In addition to an adaptive cruise control system, this large, light-duty pickup was upgraded with some innovative technology, together with new trailering equipment on some models.

Top Features of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Based largely on this profile, owners rank their favourite things about the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab Long Box 4WD as:

• exterior styling;
• driving dynamics;
• engine and transmission;
• interior design;
• visibility; and
• safety.

Engine and Transmission

With 310 horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of maximum torque – that’s a 24% hike in torque – the standard four-cylinder 2.7L turbo high-output engine is impressively powerful.

More specifically, a  unique dual-volute turbocharger delivers torque on demand, while priority cooling and oiling make even the toughest jobs easier. Impressively, its eight-speed automatic transmission downshifts quickly and responsively, working smoothly with its four-wheel drive.

Cargo Capacity

With a deep, high-sided bed and a spray-in bedliner, the cargo box is the roomiest in its class by volume. Its maximum payload capacity reaches 2,250 pounds, depending on the configuration. When properly equipped, a Silverado 1500 can tow as much as 13,400 pounds.

Fitted with bumper corner steps for easier entry, and a grab handle on every door, easy access is assured. Other handy features include remote locking and a power-operated tailgate, with twelve standard tie-down hooks, and a power outlet in the side wall.

Fuel Consumption of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab Long Box 4WD

Similar to other trucks in this category, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab Long Box 4WD is built for power, not fuel savings. Hovering between 10 and 18 liters 100 kilometres, it lines up with its peers in this segment.

However, this new generation model is over 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor, with aluminum doors, tailgate, and hood. Although 40 kgs lighter, its frame is 10% more rigid, with plenty of functional aerodynamics. Meanwhile, ducts on the front bumper guide airflows around the wheel wells for better aerodynamics.  Similarly, a mini-spoiler on the rear roof directs the top airstream out over the tailgate, with less drag and better fuel savings.

Check out the Interior 

• Seating: the Silverado driver’s seat ranks high for comfort, thanks to an available ten-way power adjustment and solid back support. With three more inches of legroom than the previous generation, rear passengers can stretch out their legs in comfort, Nevertheless,  the seats are somewhat low, in relation to the cabin.
• Climate Control: the Silverado’s powerful air conditioning cools the cab quickly, with plain knobs providing simple temperature and fan speed control, with rear air conditioning vents for added comfort. Smaller buttons operate the defrost and air recirculation functions.
• Storage space: there’s a place for stashing everything in the Silverado.  Useful nooks include dual glove compartments, ten cupholders, and a couple of ‘secret’ bins tucked behind the rear seatback cushions.  Furthermore, huge door panel bins hold larger items, while the large centre console doubles up as an office, with rails for hanging file folders.
• Infotainment: every Silverado includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with four USB ports and two 12-volt outlets. Subscription services include a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot and Chevrolet Connected Services via OnStar. Although more responsive than its predecessors, the eight-inch touchscreen – which is standard for the Silverado LT – is dwarfed by a busy modular dashboard.

Safety Features

Awarded four out of five stars by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Crew Cab Long Box 4WD offers a host of innovative safety features backed by cutting-edge technology:

• Rear Seat Reminder System saves lives, by preventing drivers from accidentally leaving children or pets in the back when they get out of the cab.
• Teen Driver technology is standard, with a report card that shows the parents of young drivers exactly how they drove (including how many times they broke the speed limit!). This feature includes a driver speed limiter and warning, together with pre-set limits on audio volume.
• Safer towing with bed-view cameras and trailering mirrors with up to fifteen views on some 2020 Silverado 1500 models.

Although prices hover around $50,000 and up, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT is a solid investment.  Furthermore,  it’s relatively easy to finance at affordable monthly rates.  Despite its relatively high fuel consumption, its smooth lines and reliable performance make it a favourite on the Canadian market.