The 2021 Chevy Silverado Z71 is the only model in the lineup that can be called Raptor competitor. Even the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is being considered as the better truck for off-road duties. Well, General Motors is aware of this, so they prepare the new package – ZR2. Until this happens, fans of the Silverado half-ton pickup will still use the Z71 trim when it comes to towing on the tough terrains.
The Z71 package is available only with some trim levels. Chevrolet is offering the whole package with the LT, LTZ, and RST models, while the High Country edition comes with off-road features since protection accessories are already included. Depending on the base trim, the price of the 2021 Chevy Silverado Z71 might start around $65,000.
2021 Chevy Silverado Z71 Features
The standard Z71 Off-Road and Protection package is being offered as a $2,700 upgrade for the LT, RST, or LTZ trims. The highlight of the bundle is a special suspension system with Rancho shocks as the centerpiece of it. This will boost off-road driving impressions. The company also adds a hill descent control feature. The protection part of the package includes skid plates and a heavy-duty air filter. Of course, all-weather liners and four-season tires are standard. 20-inch wheels are optional upgrades to the 18-inch set.
When choosing the 2021 Chevy Silverado Z71 High Country, the protection features are included. So, this model is getting only shocks and suspension upgrades. The 2-speed auto-trac transfer case is not included, as well as the locking differential, like for other trims offering Z71 package. That is why it costs $350 with the High Country trim.
Engines and Specs
The powertrain range depends on the version you choose. Still, it doesn’t include a new 2.7-liter turbo-four unit, although the drivetrain is available through some trims. A pair of V8 petrol engines are enhancing the off-road capability. The standard unit for the 2021 Chevy Silverado Z71 is a 5.3-liter displacement with 355 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a default power router, while buyers can opt for a new 10-pace gearbox. This case is standard for a larger 6.2-liter V8. It will cost you $2,500 more and it also uses a dynamic fuel management system.
The diesel engine is also part of the lineup. A 3.0-liter turbodiesel can provide 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, making it the most capable unit in this class. The same transmission is there and the company also adds an exhaust brake system. This upgrade will cost you $4,000 above the standard offer. On the other hand, it increases the towing capacity to 9,500 pounds. Toyota is not bringing a diesel unit for its Tundra, while Ford Raptor sticks to the high-output version of a V6 powerplant. Diesel is not added to the lineup yet and the new version could introduce the latest V8 engine presented by the Blue Oval company – a 7.3-liter displacement with 430 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque.