2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD had a polarizing design that sparked significant debate. When it debuted, the internet was quick to criticize its appearance, which shared the same design language as the Camaro and Blazer. Despite the initial backlash, the truck's design began to grow on some reviewers over time. The interior, however, remained largely unchanged from previous models, which was a positive aspect. The cabin layout was familiar and functional, with all controls easily accessible, making it ideal for work purposes. The Silverado HD offered various trims, from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious High Country, each with its own set of features.

In contrast, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a wide range of design options, allowing buyers to choose between different grilles, finishes, and cab styles. The Silverado 1500's interior, however, was criticized for its industrial appearance and use of plastic materials. Despite this, the truck provided ample storage space and a comfortable cabin, especially in the Crew Cab configuration. The Silverado 1500 also offered various trims, including the off-road-focused Trail Boss, which came with a range of performance and convenience features.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came with two powerful V8 engine options, both displacing 6.6 liters. The standard gas V8 produced 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax turbodiesel V8 delivered 445 horsepower and a massive 910 pound-feet of torque. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided impressive towing capabilities, with the 2500HD able to tow up to 18,500 pounds. The truck's fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but it achieved around 17 mpg during testing, thanks to its 36-gallon tank.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a choice of five engines and three transmissions, including a new 3.0-liter turbodiesel 6-cylinder engine that produced 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The test truck featured a 6.2-liter V8 engine, generating 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided strong acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note. The Silverado 1500's off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Z71 Off-Road Package, which included all-terrain tires, an off-road suspension, and a 2-inch factory lift. The truck achieved an average fuel economy of 16.8 mpg during testing.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered various bed and cab configurations, including a Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. The Crew Cab provided a spacious interior with ample storage options, including a massive center console bin and hidden cubbies within the rear seatbacks. The truck also featured Chevrolet's CornerSteps and BedSteps, making it easier to access the bed. The LTZ trim came with a power lift-and-lower tailgate, which could be operated from the key fob or a button in the cabin.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's Crew Cab also offered a spacious interior, with a comfortable back seat and plenty of storage options. The test truck featured leather upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a heated steering wheel. However, the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster, which some passengers found uncomfortable. The Silverado 1500's cargo box was deep and had high sides, providing more storage room than its competitors. The truck's towing and hauling capacities varied depending on the configuration, with the LT Trail Boss able to tow up to 11,300 pounds and haul up to 2,170 pounds.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD featured a straightforward infotainment system with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Both systems included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the larger screen available on higher trims. The truck also offered multiple USB ports and power outlets, as well as a wireless charging pad on the High Country trim. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard on the LT, LTZ, and High Country trims.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 also came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a high-definition display, navigation, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a Bose premium sound system. The Advanced Trailering Package provided up to 15 different camera views, including a Transparent Trailer view. New for 2020, the Camera Trailer Package added a cargo bed view camera system and an advanced trailering system smartphone app.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. The LTZ trim added a surround-view camera with trailer views and the Safety Package II, which included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safety Package I, available on lower trims, included front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring. The truck's large side mirrors with integrated trucking mirrors made it easier to maneuver.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 included a rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology as standard. However, advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were only available on the LTZ and High Country trims. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Silverado 1500 received a 4-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Marginal rating for front passenger protection from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).