The 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 debuted with an off-road-focused Trail Boss trim, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and easy-to-use technology features. As one of the best-reviewed trucks on the road, this is one pickup that is worth your time.
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2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: A Quick Overview
- The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is offered in eight trim levels, including two new trims: Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss. The High Country trim is at the top of the pricing bracket, with used 2019 High Country Silverado 1500s selling for around $59,000.
- A 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine option was introduced in 2019, and is included as standard in both the LT and RST trims. The engine offers more horsepower and torque than the standard V6, and also achieves a better fuel economy rating.
- The 2019 Chevy Silverado performed well in IIHS crash tests, receiving a majority of Good scores, and only two Marginal ratings. The NHTSA awarded the 2019 Silverado four out of five stars for its overall safety rating.
- Vehicle History offers 194 consumer reviews of the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, which includes an overall average score of 4.5 stars. Based on these reviews and our countless hours of research we believe it’s a solid pickup for a competitive price.
2019 Silverado 1500 Offers Eight Trims, Making it a Capable Off-roader, a Comfortable Daily Driver, or an Affordable Work Truck
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers eight trim levels: the base Work Truck trim, range-topping High Country, and in-between is the Custom, LT, RST, LTZ, LT Trail Boss, and Custom Trail Boss. Each is paired with RWD or 4WD.
Cab styles include Regular, Double, and Crew. Bed lengths are based on cab choices and include 8′ (long bed), 6’6″ (standard bed), and 5’8″ (short bed).
Silverado 1500 Work Truck is a Bargain Option Best Equipped for Tough Jobs
The Silverado 1500 Work Truck was built for work environments and simplicity. It is available in all three cab choices and all three bed choices. This trim is popular among construction companies looking for fleet vehicles, or consumers who just need a simple truck for personal use.
The Work Truck can be outfitted with either a V6 or V8 engine. It features vinyl upholstery standard but is available with cloth. Other built-in items include 17-inch steel wheels, a locking tailgate, a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a USB port. The Double and Crew Cab models have power windows and door locks, and a rear bench seat.
Silverado 1500 LT Comes with Standard 8″ Touchscreen & Optional Turbo Four-cylinder Engine
The Silverado LT trim is the most traditional-looking Silverado in the 2019 lineup, sporting a split-bar chrome grille and a classic yellow bow tie in the center. LED headlights are standard, as is an eight-inch touchscreen and 17-inch wheels.
The LT trim is offered in both the Double and Crew cabs, and includes a choice of standard or short bed. The 2019 LT trim has the brand-new 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with the V8 as an option.
Silverado 1500 LTZ Available with Optional 420-hp V8 and Standard Leather Seats
The Silverado 1500 LTZ trim is available in Double and Crew cabs, with either a standard or short bed. The LTZ has two V8 engine options of either the 5.3-liter or monstrous 6.2-liter. The trim includes standard leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, remote start, satellite radio, Wi-Fi, USB ports, 18-inch wheels, and a tow package.
The LTZ is a shinier version of the LT trim, with more standard features. The LTZ is loaded with chrome on the lower bumper, door handles, mirrors, and wheels.
Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss Offers Buyers the Most Capable Off-roading Experience and Added Features
The LT Trail Boss is a fully-loaded version of the new Trail Boss trim, with the 5.3-liter V8 and eight-speed transmission standard. The trim has a larger engine and better transmission than the Custom Trail Boss. It also includes all of the interior features of the LT trim, and adds a two-inch suspension lift, red tow hooks, 18-inch wheels, and the Z71 off-road package.
Silverado 1500 High Country Delivers the Most Luxury with Leather Seats and Power Tailgate
At the top of the Silverado lineup is the High Country trim. It is only offered in Crew Cab, with either a standard or short bed. The High Country needs the Crew Cab body style to add extra space to the cabin. Both V8 engines are optional, and the trim adds heated rear seats, navigation, a Bose stereo, power tailgate, blind-spot monitoring, and 20-inch wheels as standard.
The main sections of the bumper on the High Country match the body color, but the lower portions are chrome. The grille has bronze accents, and the side steps are chrome. The trim adds a “High Country” badge on the front fenders, and is a top-tier trim.
Expect to Spend $30,000 to $59,000 on a 2019 Silverado, Depending on Trim Level
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado full-size truck provides a range of prices, which are dependent on each trim’s individual added options and packages. A base-trim Work Truck, with all added options and packages, could end up costing the same or even more than a standard Silverado LT (pictured above).
Using Kelley Blue Book as a guide, expect to spend about $36,700 at a dealer for a Crew Cab Work Truck with 4WD. Step up to an LT for a Fair Purchase Price closer to $43,700. The new Trail Boss LT goes for around $49,300 if you add leather seating, a sunroof, and most of the extras.
Chevrolet’s Certified Pre-owned Program Extends Standard Warranty and Adds Detailed 172-Point Inspection
Chevrolet offers a certified pre-owned (CPO) program that allows buyers to choose from a list of CPO vehicles that are covered by a multitude of benefits. Some of the benefits include a factory-backed, six-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a factory-backed, 12-month/12,000-mile, bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional perks include roadside assistance and a 172-point inspection.
2019 Silverado Offers Four Engine Options, Including Turbo Four-cylinder and Three V8s
Powertrain options across the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 lineup depend on trim level. The six-speed transmission is paired with both the 4.3-liter V6 and the 5.3-liter V8. The eight-speed transmission is found in trims with the 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or the 5.3-liter V8. The 10-speed automatic transmission is reserved for the 6.2-liter V8 powerhouse. All 2019 Silverado trims are offered with either RWD or 4WD.
The base engine is a 4.3-liter V6 with 285 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque. This standard V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission has a towing capacity of 9,500 to 11,000 pounds. The payload capacity depends on cab size, with the Regular Cab having the highest payload capacity at 2,280 pounds.
The LT and RST are offered with a slightly smaller but more powerful standard engine: a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 310 horsepower and 348 lb.-ft. of torque.
The Custom Trail Boss comes with either the standard 4.3-liter V6 or the 5.3-liter V8, which produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque. It is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, with an optional eight-speed automatic transmission when paired with the 5.3-liter V8.
The majority of 2019 Trail Boss trucks on the used market will be equipped with the 5.3-liter V8, due to its greater horsepower and torque figures. The LT Trail Boss is offered with the 5.3-liter V8 as a standard along with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Both the LTZ and High Country are offered with a 5.3-liter V8, or an optional upgrade to a 6.2-liter V8, which generates 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. When paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the High Country with the 6.2-liter V8 has a towing capacity of 12,200 pounds, which is the best towing capacity of all the trim levels.
Fuel Economy for a 2019 Chevy Silverado Boasts Up to 23 MPG on the Highway
Fuel efficiency numbers directly correlate with the powertrain equipped in each 2019 Silverado. All 4WD drivetrain options will cost you an average of one mpg in the city and on the highway, due to the increase in weight of the drivetrain system.
EPA Ratings (city/highway mpg):
- 4.3L V6: 15/19 (w/six-speed automatic and RWD)
- 2.7L turbo four-cylinder engine: 20/23 (w/eight-speed automatic and RWD)
- 5.3L V8: 15/21 (w/six-speed automatic and RWD)
- 5.3L V8: 17/23 (w/eight-speed and RWD).
- 6.2L V8: 16/20 (w/10-speed automatic with 4WD)
According to the EPA, the most fuel-efficient powertrain for a 2019 Silverado is the 2.7-liter engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and RWD.
2019 Silverado Driving Performance is Smooth and Capable at Top-tier Trims with Upgraded Powertrain
The 2019 model year marked the first time that Chevrolet offered an off-road-focused variant of the Silverado, and it was well worth the wait. The Trail Boss is built with a factory-installed, two-inch lift, providing the truck with an overall ground clearance of 10.7 inches over the stock Silverado’s 8.1 inches. With greater ground clearance, the Trail Boss is able to conquer rugged terrain with ease.
In a first look by KBB, host Lyn Woodward states that, “On the road, the Silverado feels sturdy and solid but surprisingly ‘un-trucky.'” Note that her test model is a High Country equipped with the 10-speed automatic, “shifts are quick and smooth, it’s tight ratios keep the engine closer to peak power when at full throttle…It also makes for easier operation when towing,” which, she laments, “it’s too bad this transmission is only an option on the LT trim and above with the diesel or 6.2-liter engine.”
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is not meant for high speeds, but the Silverado High Country equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 hits 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, beating similar versions from the competition. The High Country is quicker to 60 than the F-150, Ram, and Tundra.
2019 Chevrolet Silverado: Room for the Whole Family and a Sheet of Plywood
Cargo space is determined by each of the three cab sizes. Length ranges from 229.5″ to 241.21, width, 81.14″ to 81.24,” and height, 75.35″ to 78.45. Ground clearance sat between 8.1″ to 10.7.
Inside is also spacious, with about 43″ of front headroom and 44.5″ of front legroom, sufficient for even the tallest person in full work gear. In the back seat, rear occupants got 40.1″ of headroom, and 35.2″ to 43.4″ of legroom depending on the cab.
2019 Chevy Silverado is Very Safe, Especially When Equipped with Available Blind-spot Monitoring and Surround-view Camera
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the 2019 Silverado four out of five stars for overall safety. The truck’s front crash test and rollover safety each netted four stars, and the side crash test scored a perfect five stars.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety agrees with the NHTSA’s safety determination, with a few caveats. The IIHS gives the 2019 Silverado its top rating of “Good” for crashworthiness. However, the IIHS rates the headlights as “Poor,” and scores the child seat LATCH ease of use as “Marginal.”
Standard safety features include a rearview camera, a class-exclusive Teen-Driver system, and a rear-seat reminder so you don’t forget anything in the back of the cab.
There are also models ordered with optional safety extras, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, a surround-view camera, and more.
Technology and Comfort Features are a Highlight of the 2019 Silverado and Include 8″ Touchscreen
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has many easy-to-use technology and convenience features. The standard infotainment consists of a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a USB port.
Available optional infotainment features include an eight-inch touchscreen, navigation, satellite radio, and Wi-Fi hot spot. All modern features will cost you a little extra outside of manual windows and door locks, which are offered standard. Optional features include keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, sunroof, and power tailgate.
2019 Silverado Offers 17 Available Exterior Colors and Three Interior Shades
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is offered in 17 different colors with some of the colors exclusive to the trim level. The colors include Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, Havana Brown, Red Hot, Satin Steel Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Black, Shadow Gray, Cajun Red Tintcoat, Woodland Green, Doeskin Tan, Wheatland Yellow, Tangier Orange, Northsky Blue Metallic, Oakwood Metallic, Deep Ocean Blue Metallic, and Graphite Metallic.
Inside, Jet Black came as an option on all models, but “Very Dark Atmosphere” was available on LT, RST, LTZ, and LT Trail Boss. Gideon was offered on LT, RST, LTZ, and LT Trail Boss.
2019 Silverado Has Very Few Issues and is Inexpensive to Maintain
Edmunds rates the yearly cost of maintenance for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 to be $132 for the first year, and a grand total of $5,208 over the course of five years for an LT Crew Cab. Repair costs are low, with a five-year estimated rate of only $2,064.
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has nine recalls recorded with the NHTSA. The first was for a passenger airbag that did not inflate appropriately, followed by a recall over faulty seat belt pretensioners. The third recall addressed a weak alternator connection that could lead to fire.
The fourth and fifth recalls were based on faulty software that affected the braking system, preventing the vehicle from stopping correctly. Another recall was reported for the driveshaft separating while the vehicle was in motion, leading to a lack of acceleration.
The seventh recall was over the front seat belts not securing properly. And the final two recalls are similar, both reporting that over-cured tires may cause a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss that can cause an accident.
Chevrolet Silverado vs. the Competition: Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and GMC Sierra
The mighty 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has plenty of competition from Ford, Ram, and GMC. Here’s how the Silverado stacks up.
2019 GMC Sierra is the More Expensive Cousin of the Silverado
The 2019 GMC Sierra and 2019 Chevrolet Silverado are mechanically identical, but both trucks were completely redesigned for the 2019 model year. The exterior of each truck has an all-new design, but the GMC Sierra has a more premium look. The Silverado is offered in three cab sizes, while the Sierra is only offered in two, with GMC not offering a Work Truck trim.
The GMC Sierra offers a multitude of tailgate features that can not be had on the Silverado. But both trucks can have added luxuries like leather seats, wood interior trim, and a head-up display. The GMC Sierra, however, is a pricier option that offers features that can not even be had at the highest trim level of the Silverado.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2019 Ford F-150 is the Industry-leading Truck, but the Silverado is a Close Second and Costs Less
The Ford F-150 is the class leader, equipped with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine and seamless 10-speed automatic transmission. It also offers massaging seats and other optional equipment that the Silverado does not. The F-150 also outperforms the Chevy Silverado in towing capability and payload, making it a better choice for those who plan to utilize both towing and hauling features.
When comparing off-road trim levels, the F-150 Raptor is in a different class than the newly offered Trail Boss. The Trail Boss offers common off-road qualities, while the Ford Raptor is a purpose-built, off-roading desert race truck. The Trail Boss is best compared to Ram’s off-road variant, the Ram Rebel, but even the Rebel has better interior options that make for a better off-road experience.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2019 Ram 1500 Has the Highest Quality Interior, but the Silverado Outperforms it in Every Test
Ram made a name for itself in the 2019 model year by offering interiors that are comparable to that of a Mercedes-Benz. A smooth and comfortable ride was achieved, but the Ram 1500 also underperforms, and in fact, it scores last in every performance test against the Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
The Silverado offers more towing capacity than the Ram 1500, but the Ram has more onboard technology and cabin comfort, making it more of a family hauler than a work truck. The interior of the Ram features nice touches like a 12-inch touchscreen and leather upholstery. In comparison, the Silverado is a more bare-bones work truck, built for durability and performance, and the Ram 1500 is more of a luxury family hauler that can also perform some truck-like tasks.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
Is a Used 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Purchase?
Whether you prefer a truck for off-road adventures, work applications, commuting, or due to the climate of your area, there is a 2019 Silverado 1500 to match your needs. However, for those concerned with ride quality and luxury, the Silverado may not be for you. For that, you may want to opt for the 2019 Ram 1500, which offers an impeccable interior and smooth ride.
If luxury features are not a priority, and you are looking for a truck to do truck things, the 2019 Silverado is a great option and gets the job done. Interior quality is upgradable, and the ride quality can be smoothed out with the addition of optional packages that make the Silverado 1500 more road-friendly. Chevy offers additional packages to each trim that let you build the exact type of truck you want.
For generations, the Ford F-150 has outsold the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, but the gap is slowly narrowing as a result of the quality of trucks offered by Chevy at a much cheaper price.
Photos: Chevrolet, Ford, Ram, and GMC
