More Non-four-cylinder Choice: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Expands V8 Availability, Adds Tech

The pickup market certainly is cutthroat. Fortunately, that fierce competition seems to work out rather well for the consumer. Less than a year after introducing the current-generation Chevrolet Silverado, General Motors is already making adjustments in a bid to boost its appeal with a broader array of customers — a necessary gambit, considering Ford’s F-150 is still the pickup sales king and Ram’s well-praised 1500 has displaced the Silverado as the runner-up.

For 2020, Chevy’s Silverado gets much of the new tech that was previously introduced for HD models, plus wider availability of the desirable 6.2-liter V8. As a result, the Silverado will offer customers the most towing capability of any light-duty pickup, at 13,400 pounds.

And, if you’re hauling a heavy load, you might be tempted to get GM’s tow-friendly camera option. Premiering on the pickup’s heavy duty sibling, the system utilizes the standard tailgate-mounted camera in tandem with an accessory cam affixed to the back of the trailer. The duo work together to provide 15 digitally unimpeded camera views.

General Motors also plans to add adaptive cruise control for the 2020 model year, bringing it up to speed with its rivals. While we possess mixed opinions over how the technology can lull drivers into complacency, it’s becoming a ubiquitous safety fixture in modern day vehicles and something Chevy needed to incorporate to remain competitive. However, won’t be standard equipment on all Silverados. GM says the feature will only be available on LT, LTZ and High Country trims.

Speaking of trims, the Trail Boss and RST designations will now be available with the 6.2-liter V8, rated at 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. If you’re hunting for that 13,400-pound maximum tow rating, select the RST with four-wheel drive.

However, if you’re more interested in just having a good time, the Trail Boss comes with a 2-inch lift kit, locking rear differential, skid plates, Rancho mono-tube off-road shocks, and 18-inch wheels with Goodyear Duratrac off-road tires — courtesy of the Z71 Off Road Package. Chevy also claims the Trail Boss is the most affordable way to access over 400 hp in a pickup (its pre-destination starting price is $43,865).

Those needing to eek out even more power from the V8 can purchase an upgrade package that hooks the Silverado 1500 up with a performance air intake and cat-back exhaust system. GM says the kit effectively raises output to 435 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque.

It’s good to see Chevrolet spreading the V8, paired with GM’s 10-speed automatic, across more than half the lineup. The company will also keep the 4.3-liter V6 (which only comes with the old six-speed) and 5.3-liter V8 (which available with both, as well as the eight-speed) on hand for for customers who don’t need it. The 2.7-liter Turbo, which GM hesitates to call a four-cylinder, remains standard fare on the base LT and RST models, while the delayed 3.0-liter diesel will be an available option on multiple trim levels.

[Images: General Motors]