2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a distinct variety of options that allowed for significant customization and personal flair. Whether one opted for Regular Cab, Double Cab, or Crew Cab styles, or whether choices leaned toward basic trims like WT and Custom or high-end versions like LTZ or High Country, each configuration exhibited unique styling cues. The LT Trail Boss tested, which sported a rugged, black-themed exterior inclusive of black wheels and dark trim, presented an aggressive, ready-to-tackle-any-challenge demeanor. Its look, designed especially for off-roading, however, demanded regular maintenance to keep clean, especially when used as intended. In comparison, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 maintained the fundamental sturdy and robust aesthetics typical of a Chevy truck but came with updated trim levels, cab styles, and bed lengths, enhancing its visual and functional appeal. The test model, an LTZ trim with a Northsky Blue paint finish and shiny chrome accents, presented an intriguing blend of ruggedness and sophistication. Unfortunately, both model years shared a lackluster interior, which remained more functional than luxurious, reflecting a need for Chevy to enhance the cabin quality to match the exterior's prowess and price point.

In terms of performance, the 2020 Silverado 1500 offered a range of powerful engines, from the new 3.0-liter turbodiesel to the potent 6.2-liter V8. This diversity, coupled with sophisticated drivetrains including a 10-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Silverado to cater to various driving and towing needs, delivering robust power output and reasonable efficiency. A particularly notable trait was the 6.2-liter V8 engine on the LT Trail Boss model, which combined high horsepower with substantial torque, providing strong acceleration and impressive off-road capability. The 2021 model continued to emphasize versatility and power but with significant enhancements in fuel efficiency, particularly with the Duramax turbodiesel engine. Costing significantly less compared to competitors' diesel offerings, it provided a commendable blend of power and efficiency, although it lacked the immediate torque delivery that the 6.2-liter V8 offered. Paired with a flawless 10-speed transmission and the optional Z71 Off-Road Package, the 2021 Silverado delivered a more refined driving experience both on and off the road, although its base suspension setup displayed limitations in rougher terrains.

Inside, the 2020 Silverado 1500 blended ruggedness with comfort. Equipped with leather seats and a range of adjustable settings including heated seats and steering wheel, it provided a cozy environment. The Crew Cab variant offered a spacious rear seating area, making long rides more comfortable for passengers. Storage solutions were ample, making the cabin both functional and practical. When it came to payload and towing, the 2020 Silverado was ready to perform, with capabilities reaching up to 2,250 pounds of payload and 13,400 pounds of towing capacity. The 2021 Silverado 1500 also boasted a spacious interior, with high levels of comfort and broad, supportive seats that were adjustable, heated, and ventilated. However, despite generous dimensions, the truck's design innovation lagged, particularly in smaller storage compartments and the lack of new utility features, except for the optional Multi-Flex tailgate. The payload and towing capacities were competitive but largely unchanged, emphasizing more on maintaining legacy strengths than setting new benchmarks.

Technology in the 2020 Silverado included a choice of a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment setup, with various connectivity and entertainment options such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose sound system. While offering a solid baseline of tech, the displays felt slightly outdated compared to industry standards. Moreover, the Advanced Trailering Package provided exceptional utility for those needing substantial towing capabilities, featuring up to 15 camera views for optimal trailer management. Conversely, the 2021 Silverado came equipped with updated tech features, including a more responsive infotainment system and the introduction of wireless smartphone integration, which added a layer of modernity and convenience. Despite these updates, the smaller screen sizes and some infotainment details still felt underwhelming when positioned against competitors like Ford and Ram.

Safety in the 2020 Silverado was a mixed bag, with basic features like Teen Driver technology and a rear-seat reminder being standard but more advanced systems like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist being reserved for higher trims. Its crash-test results reflected an urgent need for improvements. The 2021 version also didn't significantly advance in overall safety, sharing similar drawbacks in crash-test performance and headlight quality. Both models offered a suite of optional advanced safety features, yet they lagged behind competitors in both availability and technological advancement.