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There are plenty of great things to say about the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500. This truck is an excellent contender against the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. But critics have found one drawback that can’t be ignored. See what you need to consider before buying the Chevy Silverado. 

Is the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 a good truck? 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado driving
2021 Chevy Silverado High Country | Chevrolet

Yes, the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 is a great truck. It’s strong and capable, has diverse powertrains, and updated tech. But according to Auto Blog, the Chevy Silverado 1500 has one potential drawback that’s hard to miss.

We’ll get right to it. The Silverado 1500 doesn’t have the best ride quality. It doesn’t absorb impacts or bumps very well. It provides an exhausting ride due to impact harshness that only increases with larger tire sizes. Auto Blog also noted that there’s some rear axle hop when the bed is unloaded. 

We wondered if others agree, and they do. According to Edmunds, mid-corner bumps can upset the Silverado pretty easily. They also shared that most versions have a rougher ride than rivals do. 

Car and Driver also shared that the ride quality is harsh. So, there you have it, it’s a three for three on the ride quality. But on a positive note, the Silverado is extremely agile, has limited body roll, and responsive steering. The cab is also free of engine and wind noise. 

What are the Chevy Silverado positives? 

If you don’t mind a bumpy ride, then the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 is an excellent option. The diverse powertrain options include the 3.0-liter turbodiesel that provides 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It also gets an EPA estimated 24 mpg when equipped with four-wheel drive. 

Almost every trim level can be equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 engine that pumps out 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. However, the strongest option is the 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 lb and 460 lb-ft of torque. 

When properly equipped, the Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,400 lbs, which is a lot! It can also carry a payload of up to 2,250 lbs. Needless to say, it will get the job done. With the 5.3-liter V8 engine, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about seven seconds. 

To enhance its off-roading capabilities, you can add the Z71 Off-Road package, or you can go with the Chevy Silverado Trail Boss. Both options include goodies such as beefier tires, a suspension lift, and more. 

Chevy Silverado 1500 features 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 got some advanced tech upgrades, including the available Multi-Flex tailgate that opens and folds six different ways. Jackknife alert helps you avoid getting into trouble, the trailer length indicator helps you safely change lanes, and the cargo-bed camera provides a view of your precious cargo. 

An image of a red 2021 Chevrolet Silverado on a dirt road.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss | Chevrolet

Plus, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available. You can upgrade to an 8.0-inch touchscreen that’s easy to use with a fast response time. Built-in navigation and wireless charging are also available. 

Not many driver assistance features come standard, but you can opt for the available forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.

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