Chevrolet, a name synonymous with American automotive excellence, has a long history of producing pickup trucks that are both dependable workhorses and popular daily drivers. While Chevy’s reputation has been built on toughness and dependability, there is a growing desire for speed in pickup trucks.
While speed on the open road is one thing, these trucks are built to go beyond the limits of the road. Off-road capabilities combined with high-speed potential make them ideal for adventurous souls seeking both power and exploration. And when it comes to towing and hauling, a quick pickup can get the job done quickly.
Consumer demand has expanded beyond durability and cargo capacity in recent years. Drivers are now looking for pickup trucks that can provide exhilarating speed as well as practicality. Why? It is not just about speeding down the highway; pickup truck speed can also translate into improved towing and hauling capabilities, making them versatile tools for a variety of tasks. So, which Chevrolet pickup trucks are the fastest in 2023? Let us take a look at some of the top contenders for the speed crown.
List of the Fastest Chevrolet Pickup Trucks
Name | Top Speed | Acceleration | Towing Capacity |
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 | 135 mph | 0-60 mph: 7.0 sec (est) | 6,000 lbs |
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST | 124 mph | 0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds | 10,000 lbs |
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 114 mph | 0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds | 9,200 lbs |
Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 114 mph | 0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds | 14,500 lbs |
Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | 100 mph | 0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds | 20,000 lbs |
Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 | 98 mph | 0-60 mph: 6.3seconds | 8,900 lbs |
1. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The 2023 Colorado ZR2 is only available in crew-cab/short-bed configuration and has a new gas engine instead of a diesel option. It also has a more advanced suspension and more robust underpinnings. The ZR2 rides on a modified version of the previous Colorado’s Silverado-derived chassis. Its front axle gets pushed forward for a better approach angle and a more stable ride. Under the hood, it gets the Silverado’s punchy 2.7-litre turbocharged I-4, which produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. That gets paired to a new eight-speed automatic and a four-wheel-drive system and backed up by electronically locking front and rear differentials.
Torque | 430 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
Horsepower | 310 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 7.0 sec (est) |
Top Speed | 135 mph |
Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs |
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST
The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 RST is a stylish full-size pickup truck with a powerful engine and respectable performance credentials. Towing horses isn’t the truck’s strong suit, but the mechanicals are superior, and the Silverado has a fantastic engine. We all know that electric vehicles are the future of not only General Motors but also pickup trucks. But, man, this V-8 is a sweetheart. It has 6.2 litres of displacement and produces 420 eager horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Because of the cylinder deactivation, the pushrod small block can also operate as a 3.1-litre four-banger for a portion of the time.
Torque | 420@1,500 |
Horsepower | 310@5,600 |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds |
Top Speed | 124 mph |
Towing Capacity | 10,000 lb |
3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Silverado is Chevrolet’s flagship pickup truck. Last year, the vehicle underwent a midcycle update that included both interior and exterior refreshes, as well as the introduction of Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving technology and the off-roadable Silverado ZR2. For the 2023 model year, the truck receives minor updates, but an electric vehicle (EV) is in the works. The Silverado’s engine lineup is one of its strongest features, with even the 2.7-litre turbo-four providing strong, smooth acceleration.
Chevy’s pair of V-8s and its turbodiesel I-6 option offer power and efficiency in spades. However, we noticed a rougher throttle response in a pre-refresh Silverado with the 5.3-liter V-8, and Chevrolet does not offer a hybrid option like Ford and Ram. Our Silverado ZR2 tester with the 6.2-litre V-8 performed well during a towing test, exhibiting smooth shifts and a good brake feel. Those who don’t want to spend ZR2 money should consider the Trail Boss as an excellent alternative.
Torque | 430 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
Horsepower | 310 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds |
Top Speed | 114 mph |
Towing Capacity | 9,200 lb |
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4. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is a heavy-duty truck designed for tougher jobs. The latest model, introduced in 2020, comes with Chevy’s Multi-Flex tailgate, which is quite practical. Chevrolet offers two powertrains for the Silverado 2500HD: a 6.6-litre gasoline V-8, which generates 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.6-litre turbodiesel V-8 engine, which costs almost $12,000 more but is worth the spend, in our opinion. The diesel version produces 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque and comes with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels or a 4WD system. The diesel version is not only a great towing rig, but it’s also faster than the gasoline version, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds.
Torque | 464@4,000 rpm |
Horsepower | 401@5,200 rpm |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds |
Top Speed | 114 mph |
Towing Capacity | 14,500 lb |
5. Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
When it comes to power, the 2023 Chevy Silverado 3500HD is a force to be reckoned with. It offers two V-8 engine options; however, we strongly recommend the turbodiesel powerplant and Allison 10-speed automatic combination over the gasoline V-8 and antiquated six-speed automatic transmission. The former provides more power and torque, smoother shifts, and optimized tuning for towing, while the latter lacks refinement. The Silverado 3500HD comes standard with a 6.6-litre V-8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, which produces 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque and can be paired with either a rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive system. The real gem is the available 6.6-litre turbodiesel V-8, which delivers 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission.
Torque | 464 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
Horsepower | 401 hp @ 5,200 rpm |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds |
Top Speed | 100 mph |
Towing Capacity | 20,000 lbs. |
6. Chevrolet Silverado ZR2
In 2022, Chevrolet released the new Silverado 1500 ZR2. This full-size truck features a burly 6.2-litre V-8 engine, up-sized versions of Multimatic’s DSSV spool-valve dampers, steel rock-rails, aggressive tires, and high-clearance bodywork. The Silverado ZR2 also became the first ½-ton pickup to offer selectable electronic locking front and rear differentials. Paired with an all-new interior and technology package, it was clear that Chevrolet was playing to win. Under the Silverado ZR2’s hood is the company’s tried-and-true 6.2-litre V-8 engine, backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, the only drivetrain option for Chevy’s flagship off-roader. This engine churns out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.
Torque | 460 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm |
Horsepower | 420 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 6.3seconds |
Top Speed | 98 mph |
Towing Capacity | 8,900 lbs. |
Technologies For Enhancing Speed
But what is it that makes these trucks so fast? It is not only about brute force; it is also about technology. Advanced aerodynamics, finely tuned transmission systems, and specialised suspension adjustments all contribute to these pickups’ top speeds.
Aftermarket modifications are available for those who want even more speed. Tuning options, exhaust upgrades, and performance upgrades can propel these trucks to new heights. However, it’s crucial to approach customization with caution, understanding the potential risks and trade-offs.
Conclusion
Speed is no longer a secondary consideration in the world of pickup trucks. The fastest Chevrolet Pickup Trucks in 2023 offer a thrilling blend of power and practicality, catering to drivers who demand more than just brute force. Whether you’re racing down the highway or tackling off-road trails, these trucks are designed to satisfy your need for speed while retaining the reliability that Chevrolet is known for. So, when it’s time to choose your next pickup, remember that speed is not just a luxury; it’s part of the Chevrolet legacy.