Last week Chevrolet unveiled the details of the brand new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 – exactly 100 years after their first ever truck. For 2019, the Chevrolet Silverado was essentially completely rebuilt, resulting in a handful of impressive updates that take this vehicle to the next level, and make it a top contender on the truck market. The most prominent features that have been upgraded include vehicle weight, interior comfort, and bed size/capability.
The way General Motors went about creating the ultimate version of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was by leveraging feedback from Silverado drivers as the basis of the new design. This information was crucial in order to alter even the smallest features that truly make a world of difference when it comes to customer satisfaction for the 2019 model. The Chevrolet Silverado is widely used as a work truck, so it came as no huge surprise that most of the feedback was related to the functionality and capability of the Silverado’s bed.
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado steps up to the plate by creating a bed that offers the most cargo volume in each bed length available. For example, the short-box offers 63 cubic feet of volume which makes it 20% more spacious than its competition. The way this new model was able to create so much additional cargo space was by adding approximately seven inches to the overall bed width. Impressively enough, the strength of the bed has also been improved. The Chevrolet Silverado has long been known for having an incredibly durable, strong steel bed, but for 2019 the vehicle outdoes itself by using a higher-grade steel. While the previous model had a yield weight of 340 megapascals, the new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado sets the bar even higher at 500. Any truck owner knows the importance of tie-down weight, and the Silverado does not disappoint with its 12 tie-downs with the capacity to contain up to 500 lbs. each.
The next notable update is the overall size of this vehicle. The wheelbase on the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado is 1.6 inches wider and 3.9 inches longer, which of course influences the cargo volume and interior room. Surprisingly enough, even with the increase in size, this vehicle is a whopping 450 pounds lighter as well. Once again pushing the limits of innovation, Chevrolet used mixed materials to decrease the truck’s weight. For example, by using aluminum for exterior elements such as hood, tailgate, and doors, and steel on fixed panels such as roof, bed, and fenders, this model is able to cut down on overall weight.
This model also houses a new suspension system that owes some credit to this usage of mixed materials. The forged-aluminum upper control arms on the front independent short/long arm suspension has been upgraded from the stamped component on the previous model, which results in better overall wheel alignment. Another way that the Silverado cuts back on weight is through the carbon-composite second-stage springs on the live-axel rear suspension, which ends up saving 12 pounds on both sides of the vehicle.
For 2019, the Chevrolet Silverado will provide size different engine/transmission combinations, meaning this is not a “one-size fits most” vehicle. Shoppers will be pleased with the variety of options and the ability to find the perfect fit for their needs. The next notable feature we would like to shine some light on is the industry-first Dynamic Fuel Management capability that the 5.3L and the 6.2L V-8’s offer. By stopping specific cylinders in different combinations throughout use, this feature ultimately helps to increase fuel economy on these vehicles.
Now we will move along to the interior of this vehicle. When purchasing a new truck, shoppers want something that is not only functional for towing and transportation needs, but one that its comfortable and functional inside as well. This was a concern for some of the previous customers, so the new 2019 Silverado boasts 3 more inches of rear-seat legroom, now measuring out to 43.8 inches. Let’s not forget about interior cargo volume. A major update to improve upon this feature was the addition of a 24-liter storage tray under the second row passenger seats. This tray is the perfect place for driver and passenger goods and accessories such as recreational equipment, shopping bags, and more.
Another one of the main goals for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado was to offer a variety of trim levels that are tailored to specific shopper needs. It was clear while gathering feedback from customers that shoppers do not want to be grouped together into larger vehicle categories, as their interests and needs vary greatly. To remedy this concern, the 2019 Silverado will offer eight different trim levels that are segmented into three larger categories; “High Value,” High Volume,” and “High Feature.”
It almost goes without saying, but the “High Value” segment is targeted towards shoppers who are most concerned about vehicle value. We will outline the three trim options and their notable features. 1. Work Truck: vinyl or cloth interior seating, blacked-out trim, and 17-inche steel wheels that lend to the vehicle’s impressive durability. 2. Custom: available dual exhaust, body-color styling theme, and bold 20-inch painted aluminum wheels. 3. Trailboss: this vehicle offers the same features as the “custom,” but also boasts off-road features such as Rancho shocks, 18-inch wheels, a 2-inch suspension lift, and more.
The next segment is the “High Volume,” which tailors to customers who value the creature comforts of having an impressive interior while also maintaining high level of functionality when it comes to trailering and transporting goods. The following are the three available options and a preview of their notable features. 1. LT: available luxury leather seats, exterior chrome details including bumper, front grille accents, and mirror cap, an 8-inch touch screen, and LED reflector headlamps. 2. RST: exterior street-performance exterior aesthetic, up to 22-inch wheels with all-season tires, and more. LT Trailboss: 2-inch suspension lift, Z71 Off Road Package with locking differential, Rancho Shocks, and more.
“High Feature” is the last category, and is targeted towards customers looking for more of a luxurious option. The first option is the LTZ, which has a flashy exterior fitted with chrome accents, a sleek leather interior, and additional convenience features such as heated rear-view mirrors. The other option is the High Country, with its own two-tone chrome and bronze grilled design, an impressive power up-down tailgate, and more.
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado sets an impressive standard for the upcoming year, and with the extensive list of updates and available options, there truly is a Silverado for every shopper. By gathering and analyzing customer reviews and feedback, Chevrolet has left little room for error and ultimately has shaped a nearly perfect pickup truck. The combination of this vehicle’s functionality, durability, and comfort prove that Chevrolet is out to set a new standard for the next century of trucks.