Max towing capacity rises thanks to suspension changes
List of camera views has gotten even more comprehensive
Chevrolet Silverado HD is getting even more HD for 2021, offering up a max tow rating even higher than before as well as adding some cool new trailer tech like a better cargo view camera and a length indicator. There will be plenty of new special edition trucks, too, to try and help make your stand out.
36,000 lbs. That’s what the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 can handle when you pick the WT regular cab, dually, two-wheel drive model with a 6.6L Duramax diesel V8 and 10-speed Allison automatic and then tick the Max Tow package.
It’s just 500 lbs more than last year, (and probably three and a half times what your driver license allows), but Chevrolet says it took suspension hardware changes and wheel repackaging to hit the new rating. It’s also best in class, though the Ford F-450 can do a little bit more.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado HD – Trailer Length Indicator | Photo: Chevrolet
More important than those few extra pounds are the changes that will help you no matter what size your trailer. The new camera modes start with a trailer length indicator that shows you a red overlay on the center screen letting you see visuall where the back of your trailer is at lane-change time. Jack-knife alert will show you trailer position relative to the truck and let you know if your turn is getting a bit sharp, and the cargo bed camera can now zoom to help out when aligning a fifth-wheel.
Last on the camera list is an enhancement to the rear side view to now let the split view that changes with your turn angle to also work in reverse. Bed view cameras will now be offered starting on the base Work Truck trim, as will some of the main driver aid features.
A Carhartt Special Edition, exclusive to LTZ, will add all-weather badged floor mats and two-tone front and rear lether seating as well as special pinstriping. Midnight Edition for LT and LTZ in black only also darkens the grille, inserts, skid plate, badges, and everything else. Z71 Sport goes monochromatic in red, white, or blue, and Z71 Chrome Sport makes the bumper and grille body colour but shines up the wheels, skidplate, and door handles.
The 2021 Silverado HD started production last month and will hit dealers throughout the fall. The 401 hp 6.2L gas V8 and 445 hp 6.6L diesel V8 are unchanged.
