2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 First Drive: Big displays meet big V8s
Chevy's new Silverado needs a few updates before it's ready for prime time.
The new 2027 Silverado 1500 features a pair of new, bigger V8 engines that make more power and torque, delivering better towing and hauling capabilities.
The cabin features a new Android-based infotainment system powering up to three displays, plus a heads-up display. With integrated 5G connectivity and a fold-out workspace, it aims to be a mobile office.
It includes hands-off driving and a suite of new cameras for towing. While compelling, the software experience feels unfinished.
More power
Chevrolet offers four engines for 2027. The 2.7-liter turbocharged engine produces 350 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.
The lineup includes a new 5.7-liter V8 with 402 horsepower and a 6.6-liter V8 delivering 481 horsepower and 501 pound-feet of torque. The 5.7-liter engine enables the maximum 13,700-pound tow rating.
The 3.0-liter Duramax diesel remains the most fuel-efficient option, though rising fuel costs have changed its value proposition.
Pricing starts at $41,395 for the Work Truck trim, reaching $79,995 for the ZR2 model.
Redesigned inside and out
The exterior design is refined, but the interior sees the most significant changes.
A 16.3-inch central touchscreen is standard, paired with a 12.2-inch digital gauge cluster.
An optional 11.5-inch passenger display includes a privacy filter to allow streaming without distracting the driver.
The passenger display supports services like Disney+, Hulu, and YouTube, with an HDMI input for gaming consoles.
Audio requires a Bluetooth headset, and the aggressive privacy filter can create a distracting vignette effect for the passenger.
The privacy filter cannot be disabled, meaning driver and passenger cannot share content even when parked.
Functionality is limited to streaming; the passenger cannot assist with navigation or map searching.
Android onboard
The Android-based interface is bright and responsive, with Google Maps integrated directly into the system.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both supported.
Some vehicle settings are buried in menus accessible only via small icons, which can be difficult to navigate while driving.
Essential features like the 360-degree camera view are also accessed via small icons, making them challenging to use on the move.
Towing tricks
The ZR2 model includes under-body cameras for off-road visibility.
Towing features include support for remote cameras and a "transparent trailer" mode for improved rear visibility.
Super Cruise has been optimized for towing and performed well on narrow roads.
However, the system showed inconsistencies, including an unsafe lane-change attempt during highway testing.
Drive impressions
While software issues persist, the mechanical aspects of the truck are impressive.
The engines provide strong torque and capability for both towing and daily driving.
Ride quality is balanced, offering a truck-like feel without being overly harsh, and the cabin is quiet at highway speeds.
Wrap-up
The Silverado 1500 is a strong package that would benefit from software updates to fix interface and driver-assist quirks.
Fuel economy is a consideration, with the 5.7-liter V8 averaging 16.2 mpg during testing.
