Unveiling the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT
Today marked a significant evolution in the American truck market as Chevrolet rolled out its 2019 Silverado LT model. This next-gen truck, brimming with various enhancements, presents itself as bigger, better-equipped, and more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, all while impressively managing to undercut the outgoing model's price tag by up to $700.
Upping the Performance Ante
The 2019 Silverado LT crew cab features an array of updates, including a new standard 2.7L Turbo engine, offering a 22% increase in torque over its predecessor's 4.3L V-6. Also new to the LT is an eight-speed automatic transmission, alongside stop-start technology and active aero shutters. The truck manages to maintain its price advantage, despite these substantial enhancements.
High Country’s Feature Upgrades
The deluxe High Country variant also presents an array of fresh equipment, such as a 5.3L V-8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management, active aero shutters, and an array of safety and convenience tech including Lane Change Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert. Moreover, this model comes with a class-exclusive power up/down tailgate, with only a modest MSRP increase of $1,000 compared to its predecessor.
Advanced Equipment and Technology
Chevrolet hasn't skimped on available equipment for the 2019 Silverado either, offering comprehensive off-road and safety packages alongside high-tech features. For instance, the Z71 Off-road Equipment Package now comes as standard on all models, featuring a factory-installed 2-inch lifted suspension, protective skid plates, and off-road tuned Rancho™ shocks.
Dimensional Growth
The 2019 Silverado LT surpasses the outgoing model in practically every dimension. Notably, the Silverado crew cab, short box variant has grown 1.2 inches wider, 1.5 inches taller, and 1.7 inches longer, with a wheelbase that's 3.9 inches longer. This increase in size results in an additional 3 inches of cab length across all configurations and up to 4 cubic feet more interior volume, culminating in a larger cargo volume than any other full-size truck in short-bed, standard-bed, and long-bed models.
Weight Reduction and Performance Improvements
Despite the Silverado's substantial growth, it has managed to shed weight. Chevrolet's use of advanced manufacturing techniques and mixed materials has resulted in a truck that is up to 450 pounds lighter than its predecessor, improving the truck's overall efficiency.
Engine and Transmission Choices
With six different engine/transmission combinations, the 2019 Silverado lineup provides a wide array of performance, efficiency, and value options. This selection also results in increased towing and payload capabilities. For instance, the 5.3L V-8 with Max Towing Package now offers up to 11,600 pounds of towing capability, marking an increase of 400 pounds.
Fuel Efficiency Developments
The first engines to roll off the production line will be the 5.3L V-8 and the 6.2L V-8, both promising improved city fuel economy. The 5.3L V-8 and rear-wheel-drive models are estimated to achieve 17 miles per gallon in the city, 23 on the highway, and 19 combined, according to the EPA. Furthermore, the models with four-wheel drive and the 6.2L V-8 are estimated to reach 16 miles per gallon in the city, 20 on the highway, and 17 combined.
The Future of Fuel Efficiency
EPA estimates for other engines, such as the all-new 2.7L Turbo and the all-new Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel, have yet to be announced. Nevertheless, both engines promise to deliver even better fuel efficiency, potentially setting new standards in the industry.
-Ed
2019 Chevrolet Silverado
