Used 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LD Double Cab

Sometimes, a vehicle is so good that when it comes to the end of its cycle we just can’t bear to see it go. That’s the case with the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LD, a carryover of the previous-generation Silverado being sold right alongside the all-new version. This isn’t a new practice for the auto industry, but it is one that allows for really great deals on a proven entity with a loyal following.

Available in four trims and only as a Double Cab standard-bed model, the 2019 Silverado LD offers buyers most of the power, features and ability of the previous-generation Silverado, only with deep discounts that make it a viable threat to the Ford F-150, Nissan Titan and Ram 1500.

The idea of trucks being uncomfortable and noisy is as outdated as bipartisan legislation. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LD glides along the highway, quietly despite its boxy design, and smoothly despite its old-school leaf-spring rear suspension. The Silverado’s suspension soaks up big dips with ease, although that same capability also means it’s sometimes floaty off-road or around town. The steering on the other hand feels nicely weighted, and with enough angle that the Silverado is more maneuverable than you might think.

The standard 5.3-liter V8 is more than enough engine for this truck, with surprising power and fairly decent fuel economy. The 6-speed automatic isn’t as efficient as the 8-speed offered on the 2018 models, but we think it shifts better and is still fairly good at keeping the rpm in the 1,500 range when cruising without a heavy load.

As interiors go, the 2019 Silverado LD’s isn’t revolutionary, but it is handsome. The layout is straightforward and sensible, with large knobs for easy use and eye-level gauges backed by blue lighting. The interior materials get nicer the further up the trim line one goes, but all feature a 40/20/40-split bench front seat wrapped in durable cloth with vinyl bolsters.

The wide center console can fit laptops and other large items, or be flipped up to provide a third seating position. The Double Cab’s rear seat is roomy enough for three adults, although the rear seatback is a bit too upright for comfort on long trips.

Like any modern truck, the Chevy Silverado boasts rugged and distinctive exterior styling. Yet it doesn’t go overboard, instead presenting a relatively conservative face to the world compared to its sometimes-garish competitors. Work Truck and LT trims flash bold chrome grilles, while the Custom and LT Z71 get body-colored front ends that look rather sporty. Wheel choices range from 18 to 22 inches, and clever features like the built-in rear bumper step and EZ-Lift tailgate make working around the bed a bit less cumbersome.

STANDARD 5.3-LITER V8
While some trucks flaunt fancy turbocharged V6 or 4-cylinder engines, the 2019 Chevy Silverado LD comes standard with a proven 5.3-liter V8 delivering 355 horsepower, yet is still capable of attaining 22 mpg on the highway.

BUILT-IN WI-FI CONNECTIVITY
The available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot allows construction crews to network with the home office, or unruly kids the ability to access their friends and favorite social media sites via their tablets or laptops. It’s the greatest invention since the introduction of the in-car tape deck.

The base Silverado LD WT brings air conditioning, a rearview camera, tire-fill alert, power windows and door locks, cruise control plus a 7-inch touch-screen 6-speaker audio system with voice command, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Also standard is the Teen Driver safe-driving system, a tilt steering wheel and 17-inch painted steel wheels.

Moving up to the Custom brings a body-colored front bumper and grille surround, 20-inch chrome wheels, tinted rear glass and heated side mirrors. The top-line LT Z71 adds a unique front end, standard 4-wheel drive, hill-descent control, fog lights and an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system.

Options vary by trim and are mostly offered in bundled packages. The WT Convenience package adds remote locking tailgate, 110V AC outlet, tinted rear glass, remote keyless entry and heated outside mirrors. The LT trim offers the Texas Edition package that adds a 10-way-power driver seat, remote start, rear-window defogger and dual-zone climate control. The LT Z71 offers the Midnight Edition package that adds 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels, front and rear black-bowtie emblems and rear park assist. Stand-alone options include SiriusXM satellite radio, Wi-Fi hotspot, 22-inch wheels and numerous dealer add-ons.

The sole engine offering for the 2019 Chevy Silverado LD is the tried-and-true 5.3-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation and variable-valve timing. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with a tow/haul mode and Powertrain Grade Braking. Two-wheel drive (2WD) is standard, and 4-wheel drive (4WD) is optional on the WT, Custom and LT, and standard on the LT Z71.

5.3-liter V8
355 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
383 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/22 mpg (2WD), 15/21 mpg (4WD)