The big news is the new optional 3.0-liter Duramax diesel powerplant. According to the Chevrolet dealer in Salem, this engine was originally due to be released with last year’s model, but it was held up due to red tape. While Ford and Ram trucks utilize a V6, the Silverado’s Duramax diesel is a straight-six, which runs more smoothly than a V6, produces more torque and is more balanced.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 impresses buyers as well as members of the automotive press, with the Motor Trend writing: “If a big powerful V-8 is a must in your truck, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has two of them on offer. The truck is also available with Chevrolet’s excellent MyLink multimedia interface, which can be had with 4G LTE connectivity in case you need to work out of your pickup."

The 2020 Silverado 1500 is available in eight trim levels: Work Truck (WT), Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ and High Country. There are two bed sizes (Standard and Long) and three cab configurations (Regular, Double Cab and Crew Cab).

There are six engines to choose from. The base 4.3-liter V6 includes Active Fuel Management (ATM) and is a strong performer. It generates 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Move up to the 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with ATM and production increases to 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque. This block is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Buyers looking for more power can choose one of the three V8s on offer. The 5.3-liter V8 with ATM makes a hearty 355 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Another 5.3-liter V8 features Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) and puts out 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 6.2-liter V8 engine with DFM produces 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, joined to a 10-speed automatic. The new 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six produces 277 hp and 460 lb-ft, also mated to a 10-speed automatic.

For 2020, the Silverado 1500 gets even more power for towing. Equipped with the 6.2-liter V8 and the Max Trailering package, the Silverado has a maximum towing capacity of 13,400 pounds, making it the class-leader. The turbodiesel engine can tow up to 9,300 pounds and can haul 1,870 pounds. The 5.3-liter V8 has a towing capacity of 11,600 pounds, while the standard V6 is rated at 8,000 pounds. The turbocharged four-cylinder unit can pull up to 7,200 pounds.

The new Advanced Trailering System can display up to 15 different camera views and lets the driver view the road behind, virtually seeing right through the trailer. The myChevrolet smartphone app delivers even more trailering features.

Drivers will appreciate the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500’s enhanced ride and balanced handling. This pickup is also tough enough to handle rugged off-roading adventures. Serious off-roaders should take a look at the Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss trim levels. Both get standard four-wheel drive and come with the Z71 Off-Road package and a 2.0-inch lifted suspension.