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A Mid‑Range Silverado Review
After a week spent with the high‑end Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country, the reviewer turned his attention to the more modest RST trim. Priced at roughly $54,000, the RST offers four‑wheel drive, a 5½‑foot bed, and a 2.7‑liter turbocharged four‑cylinder engine. The question is whether this mid‑level package delivers more value than the premium model.
Interior and Comfort
The RST’s cabin feels more spacious than the High Country, thanks to a column‑shifter that frees up the center console. The seats can flip up for cargo or down for passengers, and the six‑seat layout accommodates families or friends. The reviewer notes,
"I was pretty impressed with driving around."The interior features wood‑grain accents, faux leather‑styled trim, and a soft‑touch steering wheel. However, the cup holders are small, and a sunglasses holder is missing, which the reviewer calls a “bummer.”
Additional storage comes from a clever compartment under the rear seats and a separate area behind the front seats that can hold shoes or tools. The bed itself is lined with a simple yet functional liner, and the reviewer highlights the sponsor LastFit floor mats that fit well under the seats and cover the door sills. The seats are adjustable with a reclining feature, and the rear seats offer a decent amount of legroom, though the vents are low and the B‑pillar area lacks additional storage.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2.7‑liter TurboMax engine delivers adequate power for everyday use, but it struggles with turbo lag and idling. The reviewer describes the engine’s behavior: “Let the engine turn off. And then let it come back to life.” While the V8 options in the High Country are more robust, the RST’s engine is “fine” for basic transportation. Fuel economy is modest, with a 22‑mpg cruise at 70 mph, and the reviewer compares it unfavorably to the V8 variants.
On the road, the truck feels solid and truck‑like, with a firm ride that still offers a quiet cabin. The reviewer praises the steering feel and the overall robust construction, noting that the Silverado feels more “truck‑like” than many competitors. However, the engine’s lack of power can make towing or heavy loads feel sluggish, especially when the turbo has to spool up. The truck’s handling is competent, but the ride can feel a bit harsh on rough terrain.
Features and Technology
Inside the bed, a 400‑W outlet, LED lighting, and trailer‑light controls add practicality. The infotainment system is an improvement over the High Country’s, with a horizontal screen layout and better Android Auto integration. The reviewer still finds the system laggy but appreciates the built‑in Google Maps. The RST also offers a 120‑V outlet, USB‑C and USB‑A ports, and a rear‑view camera.
The cabin includes a soft‑close tailgate, a button‑release system, and a small wall‑style outlet that can power accessories. The rear seats provide a decent amount of legroom, though the vents are low and the B‑pillar area lacks additional storage. The overall interior layout is functional, but the reviewer notes that the cup holders could be larger and that a sunglasses holder would be a welcome addition.
Pros and Cons
Pros include a roomy interior, column‑shifter, robust truck feel, quiet cabin, and a more affordable price point. Cons are the turbo engine’s idling issues, lack of power compared to V8s, truckiness that can feel cumbersome, and missing convenience items like a sunglasses holder. The reviewer admits it is “tough” to give a definitive recommendation, placing the RST in the middle of the pack among competitors such as the F‑150, RAM, and Toyota.
Additional drawbacks include a high recall rate for the 6.2‑liter V8, which the reviewer mentions as a concern for buyers considering the higher trim. The RST’s interior, while functional, lacks some of the premium touches found in the High Country, such as larger cup holders and a more refined infotainment experience.
Final Thoughts
The RST is a functional, problem‑free truck that offers a good balance of comfort and utility for its price. It may not excite enthusiasts who prefer a V8, but for buyers looking for a mid‑level, reliable workhorse, it stands as a solid choice. The reviewer concludes that while the RST is “fine,” it may not be the top pick for everyone, especially those who value higher performance or premium features.