Off-Roading Dreams with the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss
Off-roading has surged in popularity within the pickup truck market, with more rugged options emerging since the introduction of the Ford Raptor. A notable contender in this arena is the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss. This Silverado variant comes in two trims: the budget-friendly Custom Trail Boss and the feature-rich LT Trail Boss. Both trims sport rugged looks and come with various off-road enhancements, making them reliable off-road companions while sacrificing some on-road comfort.
### Off-Road Features and Specifications
The Trail Boss trim stands out with its off-road tuned suspension featuring Rancho shocks and a 2-inch lift over the standard Z71 model. Additional off-road features include skid plates, hill descent control, an automatic locking rear differential, and 32-inch mud-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch wheels. For those seeking even more capability, both trims can be upgraded to 33-inch all-terrain tires on 20-inch wheels. Visual accents such as a black grille, bumpers, bright red tow hooks, and “Trail Boss” decals on the rear fenders ensure this truck looks as tough as it performs.
### Real-World Off-Road Performance
Taking the LT Trail Boss for a spin at Bundy Hill Off-Road Park in Jerome, Michigan, tested the truck’s mettle. This off-road park offers varied terrain, with hilly, wooded trails and challenging, muddy conditions. Despite warnings from park attendants about the risks posed by deep puddles and tight trails typically navigated by smaller, more agile vehicles, the Trail Boss held its own.
### Trail Capabilities and Limitations
Bundy Hill features five levels of trails, from the easily passable “Green” trails to the advanced “Black,” “Red,” and “Border” trails. While the Trail Boss is equipped to handle the “Green” and possibly “Blue” trails, its larger size makes it less ideal for more extreme off-roading. However, on the right terrain, the Trail Boss suspension provides good body control over potholes and ruts without bottoming out. The mud-terrain tires offer solid traction, although the truck’s size limits its maneuverability on narrower trails.
### On-Road Comfort and Performance
While the Trail Boss excels off-road, its on-road performance compromises comfort. The suspension, while great for rough trails, feels stiff on paved roads, causing noticeable skidding and bouncing over potholes. Mud-terrain tires reduce grip, requiring careful consideration of braking and cornering speeds. Additionally, the tires produce a low whirring noise that can tire over long distances.
### Powertrain and Handling
The LT Trail Boss’ 5.3-liter V8, delivering 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensures smooth acceleration and gear transitions. The truck’s sportiness is highlighted by its minimal body roll in corners and responsive steering, surprising given its off-road tire setup.
### Choosing the Right Trim
For budget-conscious off-road enthusiasts, the Custom Trail Boss offers essential off-road features at an entry price of $41,095. It includes a 4.3-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque, and options for engine upgrades. Notably, the 5.3-liter V8 is available for $1,395, while the 6.2-liter V8, generating 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet, is $2,870 extra.
For those seeking more comfort and technology, the LT Trail Boss is a better choice. Starting at $50,095, it includes more creature comforts such as a sunroof, power heated bucket seats, telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, parking sensors, and LED lights. Additionally, the advanced Dynamic Fuel Management system offers better fuel efficiency by deactivating cylinders as needed.
### Conclusion
The Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss caters to a niche audience, excelling as an off-road vehicle with solid trail capabilities. The LT Trail Boss, with its balance of features and off-road performance, is recommended for most buyers. However, for serious off-roaders, the smaller and more maneuverable Colorado ZR2 might be a better option. Visit Automotive.fyi for more insights and updates.
Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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