How fast is a Chevy Silverado 0 to 60?
Most Chevy Silverado 1500 pickups reach 60 mph in roughly 5 to 7 seconds, with the quickest configurations dipping into the low- to mid-5-second range and the base 2.7-liter turbo and certain trims typically landing closer to the mid-6s. Diesel variants tend to be slower, often in the high-6s to low-8s, depending on weight and setup.
The exact 0–60 time for a Silverado depends on multiple factors: engine choice, drivetrain (two- or four-wheel drive), payload and towing configuration, tires, and road conditions. This article outlines typical ranges by engine and drivetrain as of the current Silverado lineup, while noting that individual results can vary. For precise figures, consult independent testing or the vehicle's official specifications for your model year and trim.
Engine options and 0–60 performance
The following list provides typical 0–60 ranges by powertrain configuration, with separate notes for two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). Times are approximate and based on contemporary testing across recent model years; real-world results can differ.
2.7L Turbo Inline-4
In most tests, the base 2.7L turbo with an 8-speed automatic delivers acceleration in the mid-6 to high-6 seconds for 2WD, and slightly slower for 4WD configurations due to the added drivetrain drag and weight.
- 2WD: typically 6.0–6.8 seconds
- 4WD: typically 6.5–7.0 seconds
These figures reflect a balance between daily practicality and brisk acceleration, with payload and tire choice capable of nudging results up or down slightly.
5.3L V8
The 5.3L V8 offers a traditional gasoline V8 pairing with the Silverado’s 8- or 10-speed automatic, depending on year and trim. Times are generally a touch slower than the 6.2L V8 but faster than the base 2.7L in many setups, especially when not heavily loaded.
- 2WD: typically 6.5–7.5 seconds
- 4WD: typically 6.9–7.9 seconds
Expect variations based on gearing, axle ratio, and whether the vehicle is carrying weight or towing a load.
6.2L V8
The 6.2L V8 is the quickest gasoline engine in most Silverado configurations, particularly with the higher 10-speed automatic and in lighter trims or 2WD setups. In tested conditions, this powertrain can approach the lower end of the 5-second range or better in favorable conditions.
- 2WD: typically 4.8–5.5 seconds
- 4WD: typically 5.0–5.9 seconds
Actual results depend on your exact model year, axle ratio, tires, and whether the truck is unladen or loaded for work, which can noticeably affect launch feel and traction.
3.0L Duramax Diesel
The 3.0L Duramax diesel prioritizes torque and efficiency over outright sprint, so 0–60 times are generally slower than the gasoline V8s, especially in unloaded conditions. Diesel variants are popular for work crews and long-distance driving, but they don’t typically rival the quickest gas configurations in acceleration.
- 2WD: typically 7.0–8.0 seconds
- 4WD: typically 7.5–8.5 seconds
Diesel dynamics, including turbo response and gearing, influence these numbers, along with payload and towing status.
ZR2 and other high-performance/truck-focused variants
The Silverado ZR2 and other sport-oriented trims mix aggressive tires and tuned suspensions with a strong V8 or other performance-oriented setups. These can further alter 0–60 times from the standard lineup, often placing them toward the lower end of the 5-second to mid-5-second range under ideal conditions.
- ZR2 (2WD): typically 5.0–5.8 seconds
- ZR2 (4WD): typically 5.2–6.0 seconds
As with other models, payload, launch control availability, and driving surface can shift these times significantly.
Factors that affect 0–60 times
Several variables can swing a Silverado’s 0–60 result by a noticeable margin. The following factors often have the biggest impact on measured times in real-world testing.
- Payload and towing: Heavier loads increase launch time and reduce available torque at the wheels.
- Drivetrain: 4WD typically adds weight and drivetrain loss, slowing 0–60 versus 2WD.
- Tire choice and condition: All-season, street, or off-road tires dramatically influence traction at launch.
- Aero and weight: Model year updates and optional equipment can alter weight and drag moderately.
- Elevation and temperature: Altitude and heat affect engine power and turbo or supercharger efficiency.
For precise figures, consult independent testing from outlets like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, or automotive journalists who test the exact trim and year you’re considering.
Summary
In sum, a Chevy Silverado 1500’s 0–60 mph time spans a broad range from the mid-4-second zone for high-performance gasoline configurations to the mid- or high-6-second territory for base engines and diesels under typical conditions. Real-world results depend on engine choice, drive configuration, payload, tires, and environmental conditions, so always check model-year-specific tests for the most accurate numbers. The fastest trims can accelerate notably quicker than the base configurations, while efficient diesel variants prioritize durability and efficiency over sprint speed.
If you’re evaluating a Silverado for performance, identify your exact engine, drive layout, and whether you’ll be carrying loads or towing, then review independent tests for that precise setup to get the most realistic expectation of 0–60 times.
