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We’re spending a week with the Chevrolet Silverado Duramax Diesel Trail Boss, which has a few nice surprises. For example, it’s refined, capable, and comfortable. We’re using the 2023 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel for errands, daily driving, and off-roading. Check out what we’ve learned so far. 

Is the Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel worth buying?

2023 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel Trail Boss review
2023 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel Trail Boss | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

Yes, the Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel is an excellent configuration to consider. The 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine is smooth, durable, packs plenty of power, and is incredibly fuel efficient. 

The Duramax cranks out 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. Motor1 points out that these figures are up from 277 h and 460 lb-ft of torque. For 2023, the engine was upgraded with new steel pistons, a retuned turbo compressor, enhanced fuel injectors, and improved temperature control. 

It gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city, up to 30 mpg on the highway, and 26 mph combined. It can go over 600 miles between fill-ups, which is convenient. Also, it can tow up to 13,000 lbs. 

We’ve been getting about 20 mpg while running errands, but the average fuel economy is still adjusting. We’ve been spanning more time with it off-roading and getting about 16.8 mpg on the trails. 

The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro came in at about 13.8 mpg, and the GMC Sierra AT4X got about 11.6 mpg while off-roading on the same trails. 

Is the Silverado 1500 Duramax Diesel comfortable?

Yes, the 2023 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel is extremely comfortable. The 10-speed automatic transmission is silky smooth with a consistent purr. Also, the paddle shifters provide precise control. 

The engine isn’t very loud, but it does provide an attractive low rumble. It’s hardly noticeable while inside the cabin. However, we do have the Trail Boss model, so the off-roading equipment contributes to extra road and wind noise. 

The ride is pretty smooth over most surfaces. The off-roading mode keeps things well-controlled over gravel and rocky surfaces. Sometimes larger impacts on the road can be felt, but disruptions are settled quickly. 

We’re impressed by the dual-zone automatic climate control. It automatically adjusts to surrounding temperatures, which has been nice on frigid days. Also, if it’s cold enough, the heated steering wheel and seats automatically turn on with remote start. 

However, the seats and steering wheel can heat up very quickly. This truck is a dream for those who are constantly cold during the winter. 

Is the Silverado Duramax Diesel sporty? 

2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Duramax Diesel engine
2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Duramax Diesel engine | Chevrolet

The 2023 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel is a pretty exciting option. It’s not the fastest truck in the world, but it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 to 7.0 seconds. That’s more than enough power to pass others on the highway and for merging into traffic. 

Plus, the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters can make the ride more engaging. The brakes are a bit soft but provide confident stopping power. Also, the handling is responsive, but the steering is a little light. 

The Silverado isn’t the best for cornering, but the suspension is well-controlled, and there’s almost no body roll. 

We still have things to learn about the Duramax Diesel, but we’ve gathered that it’s smooth, comfortable, quiet, efficient, and capable so far. Stay tuned for our full review.