2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Buyer's Guide: LT vs RST vs LTZ vs High Country

The All-American Workhorse

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 represents the second year of GM's fourth- generation full-size truck. This generation brought significant improvements including the innovative Multi-Flex tailgate, larger bed volume, and an optional 3.0L Duramax diesel engine that delivers remarkable fuel efficiency.

We analyzed 1,265 listings nationwide to identify fair pricing and common issues. The Silverado offers a compelling combination of capability, technology, and value—though some first-year issues from 2019 were addressed in 2020. The T1 platform delivers improved ride quality while maintaining the truck's work-ready capability.

Engine Options: Choosing Your Powertrain

GM offered four engine options for 2020: the base 2.7L turbo-four (310 hp), the volume 5.3L V8 (355 hp), the performance 6.2L V8 (420 hp), and the efficiency-focused 3.0L Duramax diesel (277 hp, 460 lb-ft). Each has distinct characteristics and use cases.

The 5.3L V8 is the default choice for good reason—it's proven over decades and balances power, fuel economy, and reliability. The 6.2L adds serious grunt for towing but comes at a price premium. The diesel makes sense for highway-heavy driving or frequent towing.

5.3L V8: The Smart Money

The 5.3L V8 produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque—plenty for most buyers. Paired with either the 8-speed or 10-speed automatic (depending on trim), it delivers adequate acceleration and 13,400 lb towing capacity when properly equipped. Fuel economy averages 17 city/23 highway.

This engine's reliability is proven across millions of GM trucks. Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) can cause issues in some examples—the Dynamic Fuel Management version (more cylinders, more frequently) on 10-speed equipped trucks has fewer complaints.

6.2L V8: For Power Buyers

The 6.2L V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft) transforms the Silverado into a seriously quick truck. It's paired exclusively with the 10-speed automatic and Dynamic Fuel Management. Towing capacity reaches 13,400 lb, but the real benefit is effortless acceleration and passing power.

The 6.2L commands $3,000-$4,000 premium over the 5.3L and returns about 1-2 MPG less. It's worth the premium for buyers who regularly tow heavy loads or simply want the most capable engine available.

Trim Analysis: Breaking Down Your Options

LT: The Volume Leader

The LT trim represents the best value for most buyers. It includes the 5.3L V8 as standard, power seats, upgraded infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and available Z71 off-road package. The vast majority of used inventory sits at LT level.

LT with Z71 package adds skid plates, Rancho shocks, all-terrain tires, and hill descent control—worthwhile additions for about $1,500-$2,000. This combination offers capability that handles 95% of truck buyers' needs.

LTZ: Leather and Luxury

LTZ adds leather seating, Bose audio, 10-speed automatic, and additional comfort features. It represents a significant step up in interior quality and day-to-day livability. The 10-speed transmission is smoother and more efficient than the 8-speed.

For buyers who spend significant time in their truck, LTZ's added comfort justifies the $6,000-$8,000 premium over LT. It's also available with all engine options including the Duramax diesel.

High Country: The Luxury Truck

High Country is Silverado's luxury flagship with premium leather, unique grille, exclusive wheels, and the 6.2L V8 as standard (diesel optional). Multi-Flex tailgate, bed camera, and head-up display are included.

High Country commands significant premiums but offers a genuinely luxury experience. It competes directly with GMC Denali and Ford King Ranch/ Platinum. Buy it if you want the best Silverado experience available.

Current Market Pricing: What You Should Actually Pay

Full-size truck pricing varies significantly based on configuration. Crew Cab commands $3,000-$5,000 over Double Cab. 4WD adds $2,000-$3,000 over 2WD. The 6.2L engine adds $2,000-$4,000. Diesel adds $4,000-$6,000.

Pricing by Trim and Condition

Work Truck/Custom: $28,000-$33,000 for 60,000-80,000 miles. Often used as work trucks with harder lives. Inspect carefully for commercial use wear.

LT Models: $33,000-$38,000 for 50,000-70,000 miles. Largest inventory pool. 5.3L V8 is standard. Z71 package adds $1,500-$2,500 to value.

RST/LTZ Models: $38,000-$44,000 for 40,000-60,000 miles. RST emphasizes street styling, LTZ emphasizes luxury. Both include 10-speed auto.

High Country: $46,000-$52,000 for 30,000-50,000 miles. Limited supply keeps prices firm. 6.2L V8 is standard. Diesel versions command additional $3,000-$5,000.

Reliability Analysis: What Actually Breaks

The 2020 Silverado's reliability is good overall but not without concerns. The V8 engines are proven, but Active Fuel Management systems can cause issues. The 8-speed transmission has more complaints than the 10-speed.

Known Issues and Fixes

8-Speed Transmission Shudder: Some 8-speed equipped trucks exhibit shudder at low speeds and light throttle. GM released TSB 18-NA-355 with updated fluid and calibration. Most cases resolve with this service. Test thoroughly during purchase.

AFM Lifter Issues: Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) can cause lifter failure on high-mileage examples. Symptoms include ticking noise and misfires. Repair costs $3,000-$5,000. Some owners disable AFM through aftermarket tuning. The newer Dynamic Fuel Management on 10-speed trucks has fewer issues.

Infotainment Freezing: The touchscreen occasionally freezes or requires reboot. Software updates have addressed most issues. Verify current software during purchase.

Paint Quality: Some owners report thin paint that chips easily, particularly on darker colors. This is a quality control issue, not a defect. Inspect carefully for chips and touch-ups.

What Doesn't Break

The core truck structure is robust. V8 engines (when AFM doesn't cause issues) routinely exceed 200,000 miles. The T1 platform's frame and suspension are designed for work use. The 10-speed transmission is smooth and reliable. Four-wheel-drive systems are proven across decades of GM trucks.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

• Transmission Test: Drive at 25-40 mph with light throttle. Any shudder indicates potential torque converter issue. Have the TSB service performed if present.
• Engine Lifter Listen: Start cold and listen for ticking. AFM lifter issues often manifest as tick on startup that may fade or persist. Any persistent tick warrants further inspection.
• Undercarriage Inspection: Check for rust on frame, particularly if from salt-belt states. Also inspect for off-road damage if equipped with Z71 or Trail Boss.
• Bed Condition: Inspect bed floor for dents, scratches, and rust. Heavy work use shows here first. Spray-in liner adds value.
• Towing Equipment: If equipped, verify hitch, brake controller, and trailer connections function properly. Test trailer lights.

Long-Term Ownership Costs

Full-size truck ownership costs are significant. Annual maintenance averages $600-$800 for gas engines, $800-$1,100 for diesel. Fuel costs at 20 MPG combined and 12,000 annual miles: approximately $2,100 at $3.50/gallon for gas, or $1,900 for diesel (better MPG, higher fuel price). Insurance runs $1,200-$1,800 annually.

Major maintenance includes timing chain service around 150,000 miles ($1,500- $2,500) and transmission service every 60,000 miles ($300-$500). Diesel adds DEF fluid ($15-$20 per 2.5 gallons) and more expensive oil changes.

Depreciation runs 10-14% annually for LT trim. Higher trims depreciate faster in dollar terms but retain higher values. Well-maintained trucks with service records command premiums.