Your Guide to the Fourth-Gen Chevy Silverado 1500

There are lots of reasons to consider used trucks for sale when you start searching for your next vehicle. For one, drivers can save some serious cash on insurance premiums, as used pickups tend to enjoy lower rates than their late-model counterparts. The modest sticker price is another obvious selling point, but pickups are uniquely suited to the pre-owned market thanks primarily to their durability. 

While a pre-owned car or crossover SUV might start to show its age around the 150,000-mile mark, it’s not unusual for a used truck’s odometer to surpass 200,000 or even 300,000 miles. In fact, one 2018 study showed that, out of the top ten vehicles most likely to hit 200,000 miles, eight were pickups. 

Even among its pickup compatriots, the Chevy Silverado 1500 is something of a standout. This full-size truck enjoys some of the best longevity of the bunch, with 2.1% of registered Silverado 1500s achieving that milestone, compared to the industry average of 1.2%. That number puts Chevy’s flagship pickup well ahead of its primary competitor, the Ford F-150, at 1.9%, while the Ram 1500 didn’t even make the list. 

Discerning buyers have come to trust the Silverado 1500 for its dependable design, powerful performance, and sheer versatility, but where do you start when narrowing down your options? We’ve compiled a quick guide to the key differences among fourth-gen Silverado 1500s, starting with the 2019 model and continuing through the 2024 model. 

Read on as we explore this popular pickup both inside and out and learn how a commitment to constant innovation has brought Chevy so much success in the competitive full-size truck segment.   

The 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 

JD Power Quality & Reliability Rating: 79

Notable Additions: model refresh, Trail Boss trims, extra ADAS

Chevy kicked off the Silverado 1500’s fourth generation with the release of the 2019 model. The long-awaited pickup didn’t disappoint with a new engine lineup, additional off-road options, and a generous slate of contemporary advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) tech. 

We’ll start under the hood, where buyers will find two economical engines that put a premium on efficiency. A 2.7L inline-four leverages a turbocharger to provide the pickup with an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined, and the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel is even thriftier at 27 MPG combined, but forced induction is just one part of Chevy’s fuel-sipping strategy. 

The 2019 model year saw Chevy equip the pickup’s two V8 engines with its Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) technology. The advanced cylinder deactivation system allows drivers to limit pit stops, making the Silverado 1500 a more economical, eco-friendly option. The new model also saw a high-strength steel bed that significantly increased the truck’s payload capacity and reduced the Silverado 1500’s weight by about 450 lbs compared to the outgoing design.       

The Silverado 1500 also welcomed a couple of new trim levels to the lineup, including the performance-inspired RST and two new off-road options: the Custom Trail Boss and the LT Trail Boss. 

The Custom Trail Boss represents the entry-level option, but it makes a strong case for exploring the road less traveled with its two-inch suspension lift and Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires, not to mention the contents of the Z71 Off-Road Package with its Rancho monotube shocks, automatic locking rear differential, Autotrac two-speed transfer case, and heavy-duty air filter. 

The LT Trail Boss offers a similar off-road roster, but it adds some key comfort and convenience features that ups the trim’s appeal for those seeking a premium driving experience. 

Like every next-generation model, the 2019 Silverado 1500 also includes a number of important aesthetic upgrades, but it’s the pickup’s improved ADAS suite that really made some waves. From front pedestrian braking and a following distance indicator to a lane change alert system with side blind-zone alerts and rear cross-traffic alerts, you’ll be able to hit the road with a new sense of confidence when you choose the Silverado 1500.

The 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500

JD Power Quality & Reliability Rating: 82

Notable Additions: expanded 6.2L V8 availability, trailering tech  

It would be hard to blame Chevy for taking a year off following the debut of the fourth-generation Silverado 1500, but the bowtie brand hasn’t earned its spot atop the pickup segment by resting on its laurels. 2020 marked another banner year for the popular pickup as Chevy expanded the availability of the brawny 6.2L V8, the ten-speed automatic transmission, and the Duramax turbo-diesel. 

The V8 marks the most noteworthy upgrade, allowing drivers to tow up to 13,400 lbs while still sprinting from zero to 60 mph in as little as 5.4 seconds. The diesel continues to rule the roost in terms of fuel economy, with 23 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive model and 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway when opting for four-wheel drive. 

The full-size truck also improved its ADAS suite with new features like adaptive cruise control, along with a wealth of trailer-related tech. An advanced trailing system includes 15 available camera views that’ll let you keep a close eye on both your cargo and the road, as does a set of vertical trailering mirrors. 

Designed with power-folding, power-extending, and power-adjusting capabilities, the vertical trailering mirrors give the full-size pickup a true big-rig feel. Other key towing-related tech includes trailer-side blind-zone monitoring and trailer-theft alert features, an electric parking-brake hook-up assist, and more. 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500

JD Power Quality & Reliability Rating: 80

Notable Additions: multifunctional tailgate, more trailering tech 

There are some major advantages to being part of a large automotive family, especially when it comes to raiding your sibling’s closet. GMC put the pickup segment on notice in 2019 when it introduced the MultiPro tailgate on the Sierra 1500, and the Silverado 1500 followed suit with its own Multi-Flex design in 2021. 

This six-function tailgate allows the full-size pickup to accommodate extra cargo, improve access to the bed, and even doubles as an impromptu work surface. Two additional load stops can be used to make room for lumber, kayaks, and other freight that might not fit in the bed, while a foldable inner gate places owners seven to nine inches closer to their cargo. 

A full-width step can accommodate up to 375 lbs and will certainly save your knees from a long day of lunging. At the same time, an available KICKER audio system turns the truck into a party on wheels with a weatherproof built-in stereo that’ll make for a decidedly happy “happy hour” when the clock strikes five.  

Outside of the innovative new tailgate, the rest of the 2021 Silverado 1500’s improvements are largely focused on the truck’s towing ability. Chevy re-tuned the diesel six-cylinder and turbocharged four-cylinder engines to provide a little extra punch, and the results speak for themselves. 

The 2.7L turbocharged engine gained 2,600 lbs of towing power, bringing the total to 9,600 lbs, while the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel increased from 9,300 lbs to 9,500 lbs, still offering up to 27 MPG combined. The best-selling Chevy pickup also added some exciting new trailer-assistance tech to take advantage of all that extra power, including a trailer-length indicator, cargo-bed viewer, and a jackknife alert. 

The 2021 Silverado 1500 also ups its infotainment arsenal with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the High Country trim elevates the comfort factor with an optional set of adaptive dampers.   

The 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500

JD Power Quality & Reliability Rating: 87

Notable Additions: 13.4-inch touchscreen, ZR2 trim 

A mid-cycle refresh gives automakers the chance to both address any shortcomings and double down on what a model does best. The 2022 Silverado 1500 was no exception, with Chevy pulling out all the stops to create one of the most compelling trucks in recent memory. A restyled front end included a new grille and bumper, but it’s the truck’s dashboard that earned the biggest enhancement. 

By 2022, the Silverado 1500’s available eight-inch infotainment display was starting to look a little dated, but Chevy rocketed itself back into the conversation with an optional 13.4-inch screen that dramatically improves the system’s ergonomics. Chevy’s flagship truck boosted its tech-forward approach with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and even gained GM’s critically acclaimed Super Cruise hands-free driving system on the High Country trim. 

It was a successful refresh by any measure, but we’re really burying the lead when it comes to the 2022 Silverado 1500. The truck significantly upped its off-road appeal with the debut of the new ZR2 trim. Designed to compete with similarly extreme off-road offerings from Ford and Ram, the ZR2 includes a full slate of heavy-duty off-road gear, such as 33-inch all-terrain tires, standard four-wheel drive, Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) dampers, and the 6.2L V8. 

The 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500

JD Power Quality & Reliability Rating: 80

Notable Additions: more powerful Duramax turbo-diesel 

If you’re in the market for a satisfying mix of low-end power and high efficiency, there’s just no substitute for a diesel engine. A hallmark of the full-size segment, a diesel’s torque-rich design makes it well-suited to the unique demands of the pickup world. That said, they’ve become something of an endangered species as of late. 

While they’re still common in the heavy-duty segment, both the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 dropped their diesel designs in 2021 and 2023, respectively. That makes the Silverado 1500 the last truck standing in the diesel department, giving it a significant advantage over its two top rivals. Chevy’s 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel has been a mainstay of the Silverado lineup since 2019, and it has only improved throughout the years. 

2021 saw it gain 200 lbs of max towing, but 2023 is when the engine really came into its own. A comprehensive redesign included new turbo and fuel injectors for the Duramax diesel, new pistons, and a reimagined combustion bowl. The result? Drivers will enjoy 10% more power and torque with the 2023 model, at 305 hp and 495 lb-ft, respectively. 

While it doesn’t change the truck’s towing stats, the overhauled diesel is slightly more efficient around the city, with 24 MPG in rear-wheel drive. Chevy also improved on the recently unveiled ZR2 trim with an available Bison Edition Package crafted with the off-road experts at American Expedition Vehicles (AEV). 

This package allows the truck to stampede through even the roughest off-road terrain thanks to new bumpers with improved approach and departure angles, 11.2 inches of ground clearance, and underbody protection that includes hot-stamped boron steel skid plates. 

The 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500

JD Power Quality & Reliability Rating: 84

Notable Additions: active exhaust, expanded appearance packages 

The Silverado 1500 earns a little bark to back up its considerable bite thanks to a new active exhaust system that allows the truck’s 6.2L V8 to produce a hearty growl. Simply activate Sport Mode, and you’ll be able to enjoy every decibel that the 420-hp engine has to offer. 

Outside of the new exhaust systems and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the 2024 Silverado 1500’s improvements are largely focused on keeping up appearances. The range-topping High Country trim (along with the Custom Trail Boss and Z71) could now be optioned with a Midnight Edition Package that gives the Silverado 1500 a moody makeover, complete with black wheels, bumpers, badging, front grille, and recovery hooks. 

The High Country’s power-retractable assist steps also go dark for 2024, improving access to the cab while turning plenty of heads along the way. The Custom, Custom Trail Boss, RST, and LT Trail Boss also get a chance to play dress-up with the Blackout Appearance Package, featuring black badging and lettering and 20-inch high-gloss black-painted aluminium wheels. 

Your Pre-Owned Silverado 1500 Awaits 

It’s hard to go wrong when choosing between different fourth-gen Silverado 1500 models, but if you’re looking for a little guidance and a smooth, pressure-free buying experience, LaFontaine Chevrolet Dexter is the place to go. We stock a wide selection of new and used Chevy models, from crossover SUVs like the Trax and Equinox to the full-size Tahoe and Suburban, the iconic Corvette, all-electric options like the Blazer EV, and, of course, the Silverado series. 

The Silverado 1500 is Chevy’s most well-rounded pickup. Whether you’re in the market for a reliable daily driver that’ll hold its value as it delivers years of consistent performance, a no-nonsense work truck that’ll round out your fleet, or a readymade adventure rig that will get your blood pumping as you tackle tough off-road conditions, the Chevy Silverado 1500 is here to serve.   

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