Only in North America do we see a battle like this one: the fight for the full-size pickup crown. The smallest player remains Stellantis with its recently updated Ram, but the automaker does not have the manufacturing capacity or physical resources needed to truly challenge Ford, the “king,” or its main rival, Chevrolet.

Between these two Detroit giants, the fight is heating up again, especially in the current tariff environment, but even more so with the unveiling of Chevrolet’s all-new pickup generation. General Motors has finally pulled the wraps off the 2027 version of its full-size truck, now known simply as the Silverado. More importantly, GM has invested significant time and money in relaunching the model with new engines. Among them are two new V8s that GM executives hope will make people forget some of the brand’s recent V8s, including the infamous 6.2-litre engine known for manufacturing defects that led to engine failures.

The 2027 Silverado lineup will feature a completely redesigned exterior, replacing the look Chevrolet had carried for the past eight years. It is worth noting that while Ford remains the leading pickup manufacturer with its F-Series, General Motors sells more trucks when Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra sales are combined, as the two are closely related models. It would therefore be no surprise to see GMC unveil its own updated Sierra shortly.

At launch, Chevrolet has slightly revised the naming of its new Silverado models. The entry-level version will simply be called Silverado, replacing the LT designation. It will be followed by the Work Truck version, then the increasingly upscale Custom, Custom Trail Boss, Trail Boss, ZR2 and High Country trims, the latter remaining the premium offering. Chevrolet has also announced an ultimate off-road ZR2 Bison version featuring upgrades from AEV.

As for the Trail Boss models, they may also be offered in a simplified Custom trim, including a two-inch suspension lift and 34-inch tires, though without the more specialized body treatments of the more elaborate Road Boss-style package. The High Country trim, meanwhile, retains its luxurious western-inspired character. It is also worth mentioning that all four-wheel-drive Silverados will come with the Z71 suspension package, including underbody skid plates, hill descent control and specific suspension tuning.

When it comes to the ever-popular V8s, Chevrolet will offer two genuine new engines for 2027. Both take their inspiration from the Corvette’s recent 6.7-litre V8. The smaller of the two will be a new 5.7-litre V8, replacing the long-serving 5.3-litre. The second will be a 6.6-litre V8, or 403 cubic inches, replacing the 6.2-litre engine that recently caused GM so many headaches.

These engines will be built at GM plants in Flint, Michigan, Tonawanda, New York, and St. Catharines, Ontario. For now, no power figures have been released, but several observers say they are expected to be more powerful, deliver more torque and offer better fuel efficiency. All Silverado models will also be equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, including those powered by the 2.7-litre engine.

As expected, multiple ports have been included for electronic devices, while Chevrolet has added a work shelf in the centre console, whose storage space has also been increased.

Beyond that, GM has shared only limited information. We will have to wait until the truck’s official presentation, expected later this summer or early in the fall, to learn more about the chassis and platform changes, engine output, payload and towing capacities, and the many other finishing details and specifications.

As for pricing, it will not be announced until the product is officially launched next fall. Finally, there has still been no word about the Sierra version, Silverado’s twin, or the Heavy Duty variants, namely the 2500 and 3500 HD, which are expected to arrive over the coming year. One thing is certain: we have not heard the last of it.

(Photos: Chevrolet)