Friday, May 8, 2020

Forbes Thoughts On the 2020 Chevy Silverado Post Test-Drive: “Suitably Rough, Comfortable, and Tow-Ready”

Christopher Teague of Forbes admitted last week that while testing trucks is fun business, it can be difficult because models from the “Big 3” automakers are all so good. He had the good luck of being assigned the duty of spending a week in the Chevy Silverado in LT Trailboss trim and found it to be a very comfortable, usable truck that would be ideal for daily-driver duty for most buyers. Even with that specific trim's two-inch factory lift kit and off-road tires, the ride remains comfortable and the cabin is low on noise, even with the large V8 under the hood not exactly being subtle.

The major overhaul for the truck was completed during the 2019 model year, but there have also been some noticeable updates for 2020. One thing we have to boast about regarding the Silverado 1500 here at Jim Butler Chevy of St Louis is just how customizable it is. With over half a dozen powertrains, several trims and three different cab configurations, you can be on the fast track to enjoying a basic work truck to a high-end luxury cruiser, and have complete control every step of the way.

A 13,400-lb towing capacity is more than its predecessor by 1,200 pounds, and the truck can haul over 2,000 pounds in its bed. Even the 4-cylinder engine is solid, boasting up to 7,000 pounds of towing capacity. You have the option of adding safety equipment such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and lane departure warnings. One thing that people keep telling us repeatedly about the quality of this truck is just how comfortable it is despite its massive capability. Even in lower trim levels, you get to enjoy a quiet interior and comfortable, stretched-out ride.

As the days of spring are here and many new truck owners are ready to rid themselves of cabin fever, off-road options for trucks are more popular than ever. Available for the LT and Custom trims, the Trailboss  trim adds a two-inch factory suspension lift, locking rear differential, skid plates, Rancho monotube shocks, hill descent control, and 18-inch wheels with Goodyear Duratrac off-road tires.

There are very impressive technology upgrades this year such as the HD's new trailering apps and 15-view trailering camera system seeing their way into the 1500. This year's model also has the available adaptive cruise control system that is enhanced with a new camera-based sensor. Every trim level offers a 7-inch touchscreen as standard, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. When making your decision don't skip over the upgraded V8 when it comes down to the test drive: this beefy and compelling option is the final choice for many!