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What is the most powerful Chevy truck?

The most powerful Chevy truck depends on how you measure power. In production form today, the Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition delivers the highest peak horsepower (664 hp), while the Silverado 3500HD equipped with the Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 tops the lineup for torque (up to about 910 lb-ft). In raw capability, the heavy-duty Silverado HD family remains the strongest for towing and payload.


Power under the hood: gasoline and diesel options


Here is a snapshot of the main engine options and their power outputs across Chevy’s truck lineup.



  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — 6.2L V8: 420 hp, 460 lb-ft

  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel I6: 277 hp, 460 lb-ft

  • Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 (HD) — 6.6L V8 gasoline: around 401 hp, 464 lb-ft

  • Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD — Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8: 445 hp, 910 lb-ft


In the gasoline and diesel segments, the heavy-duty Silverado 3500HD with the turbo-diesel engine is the torque king, while the light-duty Silverado 1500 offers the top horsepower in its class with the 6.2L V8.


Electric power: the Silverado EV


Electric powertrains bring immediate torque and high-output horsepower. The top-line Silverado EV in the current lineup is the RST First Edition, which delivers:



  • Two-motor all-wheel-drive configuration: 664 hp, 780 lb-ft


Range and efficiency vary by battery pack and wheel setup, with GM targeting roughly up to 400 miles of EPA-estimated range in certain configurations. The electric truck represents a distinct approach to “power” by prioritizing instant torque and EV efficiency over traditional internal-combustion metrics.


Variants and future power boosts


General Motors has discussed higher-output options for the Silverado EV in the future, including a potential three-motor setup that would raise output beyond the current 664 hp figure. Details, timing, and availability for these variants remain subject to official announcements.


What this means for buyers


Power is only one part of a truck’s appeal. Buyers should balance horsepower and torque with payload, towing needs, range (for EVs), charging access, and daily usability. Here’s how the power landscape translates for different use cases.



  • If you want maximum horsepower in a Chevy truck today, the Silverado EV RST First Edition tops the chart with 664 hp.

  • If you need peak torque for heavy towing or payload, the Silverado 3500HD with the Duramax turbo-diesel is the leader with up to 910 lb-ft.

  • If you want a well-rounded everyday pickup with strong performance and proven durability, the Silverado 1500’s 6.2L V8 offers standout power in a light-duty segment.


Ultimately, the “most powerful” Chevy truck is a moving target that shifts with how you measure power—horsepower, torque, or overall capability. The current lineup provides a clear split: electric power for peak horsepower and instant torque, and heavy-duty diesel torque for maximum towing and payload.


Summary


In summary, the Chevrolet lineup offers distinct definitions of power. For horsepower alone, the Silverado EV RST First Edition is the most powerful in production today. For torque and heavy-duty capability, the Silverado 3500HD with Duramax turbodiesel leads. Understanding your priorities—daily driving versus heavy-duty work versus electric torque—will guide you to the right choice within Chevrolet’s truck family.

What is Chevy's fastest pickup truck?


The fastest Chevy truck is the 2025/2026 Silverado SS, with a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine, 0-60 mph time under 4.5 seconds (some sources say under 4 seconds), and 650 horsepower. Other fast models include the 2026 Silverado EV RST and Sierra EV Denali, which are both under 4.5 seconds for 0-60 mph, and the Hennessey H600, which produces over 650 horsepower from its supercharged 6.2L V8.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2025 Silverado SS: 59sAutoShowYouTube · Nov 30, 2024

  • 2025/2026 Silverado SS: This model is the fastest production Chevy truck, featuring a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine that produces 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. 
  • Silverado EV RST / Sierra EV Denali: These electric trucks are also among the fastest, with a 0-60 mph time under 4.5 seconds. 
  • Hennessey H600 Silverado: This is a performance variant with an upgraded 6.2L V8 engine that produces over 650 hp, but it is a specialized model not built by Chevy. 



How much is the 1000 hp Silverado?


A 1,000hp Silverado costs around $126,000 to $150,000, with Specialty Vehicle Engineering's (SVE) Yenko/SC package being a major factor. The base price of the truck is about $37,000, plus the performance package for nearly $90,000, which brings the total to roughly $127,000. Additional options can push the final price up to $150,000.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Yenko/SC Silverado package: 59sBigKleib34YouTube · Nov 19, 2025

  • Base vehicle: Starts with a 2026 Silverado W/T (2WD, Regular Cab, Regular Bed) which costs approximately $37,000. 
  • Yenko/SC package: This performance package adds nearly $90,000 to the price. 
  • Total price: The combination brings the total price to roughly $127,000, but optional features like a suspension and wheel upgrade can raise the final price to around $150,000. 



Does Chevy have a 700 hp truck?


New 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Fox Factory Edition Supercharged 700 Hp.



Is Chevy LT or LTZ better?


Neither LT nor LTZ is inherently "better"; the choice depends on your priorities. The LT is better for value-conscious buyers who want a dependable truck with essential features, while the LTZ is better for those seeking more luxury, comfort, and advanced technology at a higher price point. 
Chevrolet LT

  • Best for: Drivers who want a capable and functional truck for daily use and towing without extra costs for luxury features. 
  • Key features:
    • More affordable starting price 
    • Practical, core truck features 
    • Solid performance for daily driving and towing 

Chevrolet LTZ
  • Best for: Buyers who want a more premium and comfortable driving experience with additional technology and features. 
  • Key features:
    • Higher price point due to upgrades 
    • More premium interior materials, like leather seats 
    • Advanced technology, including better audio systems and driver memory settings 
    • More exterior and interior chrome accents and LED lighting 
    • Often comes with a more powerful engine as standard and features like heated and ventilated front seats 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.