Starting with the most recent generation, this is the one that you're most likely to find in used dealership lots. Hitting the roads in 2019, this model came in 8 trims to look for. These are the WT, Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ, and High Country. This year sees models ranging from workhorses to some that can tackle the open trails, making it appealing to tradesmen, as well as off-road enthusiasts alike.
No matter which trim you find yourself looking at, you'll be able to enjoy some great features thanks to a solid foundation. These features are phone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can also look for the rearview backup camera system.
If you're wanting just a bit more than the base features, then you can look for models that may be equipped with things such as GPS navigation, a Bose premium audio system with seven speakers, a remote starter system, heated and ventilated luxury leather-trimmed seating surfaces, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, driver-assist technologies, a multi-angle camera system, and heated rear seats. This gives a nice mix of practicality, as well as creature comforts, giving you something to keep an eye out for.
Over the next few years, the model saw some changes that helped keep things fresh, and the first of those changes came in 2020. While not mechanical or technical changes, these were cosmetic and part of the Rally and Midnight Special editions. This brought unique looks to the lineup.
If you're planning on doing some serious towing, then you know the necessity of good mirrors, and starting in 2020, you get just that. This is the year that you can find new vertical trailering mirrors, which include power adjustability, as well as power-folding and power-extension capabilities. This gives you even more confidence when towing what you need.
Moving to 2021, you'll find that a new tailgate joined the family. While it was optional, if you're looking for something that gives you a bit more customization when working, then this is for you. This has six different positions, with these working as steps, stoppers, and more.
This year also saw an increase in how much certain engines can tow, but we'll cover those shortly.
Starting in 2022, you'll find that the Sierra comes with some new features. This helped revamp the middle of the pack while introducing a new, fun trim. For the revamp, you'll find that the LT now comes with a massive 13.4-inch touchscreen that now comes with wireless phone connectivity.
The new trim that you can look for is the ZR2. This brought some off-road gear that other trims can't quite replicate. Some of these include massive 33-inch off-road tires, and with a specially tuned suspension, you'll feel like you're gliding over whatever terrain is in front of you. This is part of the reason why Car and Driver said that it is "easier to drive daily and is the most capable half-ton Silverado."
Moving to the engines and their capabilities, you'll find that it is a bit varied. In the first few years, you'll find that one of the engines was the 4.3L V6 that made 285 horsepower. An engine that you can find across all years from this generation is the 2.7L I4. Before 2022, this engine made 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque. But after 2022, the engine now makes 420 lb-ft of torque.
The other engines that you can look for are optional for most trims and years. Starting with the 5.3L V8 that makes 355 horsepower. Moving on to the 6.2L V8, this one makes 420 horsepower, making this the one that you want for the most get-up-and-go.
But if gas isn't your thing, then there is a diesel option for you. This engine is the 3.0L Duramax I6, making 277 horsepower. But if you want a bit more power, then you'll want models that came after 2023, as this goes up to 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. This engine has the added benefit of being the most efficient one, getting up to 26 MPG combined, as per the EPA.
Of these engines, the ones that you want the most for the best tow rating are the 6.2L and the 3.0L. This is because they come with a 13,300-pound towing capacity. If you don't want that much, then you can look for the 5.3L V8 that can tow up to 11,200 pounds. At the same time, the 2.7L I4 can tow up to 9,500 pounds.