As someone who has driven the 5.3 since they were first in the Silverado truck (and the 5.7 before it), you will be hard pressed to find a more reliable engine. I drove my last one to 227k and it was still going at 335k. I bought my first 6.2 in 2015 and was so impressed immediately by the power and ease it moved the big 1500 crew Denali. Have 120k on it and still going strong
@@mscottlawrence2037 Absolutely! More power, negligent gas difference (very, very little) and you get a slight lower rear end gear 3:23. The 5.3 has a 3:42 or tow package a 3:73. So unless you plan on towing a lot, cannot reccomend a 6.2 more! And better resale value. In my 2015 it had an 8 speed Trans. Now they are 10.
@@williamfrazier3822 man that's awesome thanks so much for the info, I know they have the 2.7 also, I don't really tow much but I would probably go with the 6.2 anyway
Bring back the original 5.3 I'm talking about the one from 2000-2001 I know it came out in 99 but I just don't like first year stuff they usually will fix the weak spots with time.
The 5.3 I had on my 2015 LT Silverado was OK for towing my 20 foot camper on relatively flat ground. Put that motor into slight hills and long grades and it seemed to work a little too hard. I got stranded out in South Dakota when the lifters failed while camping. A total lifter job and we were back on the road again but, $5,300 lighter in the wallet. Chevy gave me a voucher on my new 2024 LTZ with a 6.2. I will take possesion of my new rig in a few weeks. I know the 6.2 will outperform my 5.3 hands down because it has more ponies, torque and, a 10 speed tranny. I can't wait for my new rig!
Anyone can post a LOT of videos. But TFL trucks keeps us entertained with lots of HIGH QUALITY videos. Thank you so much for your passion about trucks & trailers.
I have 2 older chevys with 5.3s that have 280k on them and my dad has one with 580k original engine 2nd trans. They all run great. 1qt of lucas oil treatment every oil change and they live forever.
Evans Automotive I have a 03 with 320k running strong. only changed the water pump. I change my oil every 4000miles with Mag 1. Love these older vortec’s, bulletproof.
I’ve been with the good old 5.3 from my 2001 Silverado and 2012 Silverado up till 2019 Silverado and in neither of those 3 trucks had it broken down or had mayor issues great old durable engines
Interesting. When I bought my Colorado the dealership sat with me to activate OnStar before I left the dealership. They also went over all the features of the vehicle.
You forgot to mention that they recommend premium fuel in the 6.2. As opposed to regular unleaded in the 5.3. Up here in Canada premium is .21 cents per litre more. Which adds up over time. One of the main reasons I stayed with the 5.3
Why would you put anything less than premium in a new truck.Keep all youre contacts,and fuel system as clean as possible.I have an RST with a 6.2 crew cab.Turn off auto stop,put it in sports mode and let her purr.....
@@jaydoublebusy Premium fuel and 87 octane fuel are the same as for keeping your engine clean (at least with the big name oil companies, maybe not an off-brand discount station). It is just a higher octane number which some engines may require or the manufacturer just recommends for maximum performance. In the latter case, 87 would be fine, just a little less power. Going on a long highway run thru several states fairly light, go 87, save some $$. Need more power for that heavy load, go 92-94 premium.
The fact that the 6.2 was so limited in its availability is a huge part of the reason why the 5.3 is the most popular GM truck engine. Now that the 6.2 is offered in many more models, all of which are much more affordable, the 6.2 might just become as popular as the 5.3... Anyhow, in regular use the 6.2 has very similar MPG to the 5.3 while having a lot more power, all for about 2000$, so in my opinion it's more than worth it and I would never buy a 5.3 now. So NO you don't really NEED the bigger V8, but should you get it anyways ? YES you should !
I own a Camaro SS. I traded a Dodge Charger R/T in on it about 6 months ago. I loved that car but I knew on the day I lost a race to a GMC Sierra loaded with passengers and a 6.2L V8 that the Bitch had to go! Mind you, I had no passengers in the car at the time. I know that displacement must be factored into the outcome, (5.7 Liter Hemi vs 6.2 Liter LT1), but we’re talking a ton to a ton and a half weight difference between the truck and my then car. I agree with you; we need the 6.2 simply because that engine is a BEAST. Performance is consistent and power/torque delivery is linear. Overall great engine in the truck 🚛 but an even better engine in the car! 🚗
Well, we’re not in the 80s and 90s anymore, this is 2020. I think the 5.3 is fine if you’re not towing heavy loads very often. If you are, you definitely want more power.
As far as giving accurate and concise information about the vehicles you review, I believe you have the BEST channel on TH-cam! Keep up the Great work!
Thank you TFL! You helped me buy my first truck. I got the 2020 Chevy 1500 Trail Boss 6.2L V8. Great to see some of you guys from CO doing what you love. I'm from Littleton.
My trail boss with the flowmaster american thunder cat back and corsa cold air intake is plenty fast especially for a 4x4. I did want the 6.2 when I bought mine but it wasn't available at the time... shortly after it became available.. smh 5.3 still puts a smile on my face 😎 Great vid guys!
My old truck was a fully tuned 06 GMC sierra with the 5.3, extended cab, and the 3.73:1 gears. It would easily roast the two tires with the G80 and put you in the back seat in passing gear. When I bought my crew cab 4x4 2018 GMC sierra I test drove the 5.3. While it pulled pretty good off the line, it had trouble finding its way out of a wet paper sack on the freeway! I bought the 6.2 with the 8 speed and have enjoyed it ever since!
A pickup isn’t a family car. Most times the lack of passenger room makes for a better experience imho. Nothing like 3 brats in the back seat complaining ( those back seats are uncomfortable) and fighting with each other to make a afternoon out feel just like HOME!
@@derekchauvinisahero2010 It will be even better the following year when you add the turbo fan jet Boeing 737 engine. Maybe a Space Shuttle engine the year after that?
I’ve owned both a 2020 LT Trail Boss 5.3 and a 2020 LT Trail Boss 6.2. Get the 6.2 I regretted not getting the 6.2 so I found one then went and traded for it. Best decision I’ve ever made. There really is no comparison. My 6.2 has lifetime powertrain warranty as well. Double win.
I got the GMC with the 5.3 four days ago. It's plenty for what I need. It's a nice little engine that feels solid. I only tow a small camper and a ski boat. I'm sure it'll be more than capable.
I’m looking at the Yukon’s and one model is 5.3L and the other 6.2L. Does the 5.3L and 6.2 take different kinds of gas? I’m coming from a V6 and only need the cheaper unleaded gas. But I also want an engine that can get out of its own way. The 5.3L will do that?
@@hollywood5163 5.3 is not a weak engine. It uses regular unleaded, 6.2 is stronger but uses only premium. Long story short...the 5.3 is more than enough engine for most people and their planned usage, it will indeed get out of it's own way.
You will be very happy with the 5.3. Sweet, sweet engine. Very few people tow more than about 9,500 lbs. Up to and including 9,500 lbs, the 5.3 is marvelous.
I just bought a new-to-me 2016 GMC Sierra Crew Cab SLT 4x4 with 65,000 miles. I looked for two months for one with a standard 6.6" box and the 6.2L, 8-speed...The 5.3L Sierras were plentiful. The 6.2L's, not so much. For me, getting 65 more horse power for basically the same price was the only way to go. I couldn't be happier.
I haven't watched the video yet, but I would like to start by saying... Yes, I need the big V8 because of the simple rationalization of I want a huge engine. I might not need it, but I definitely want it. Big V8's all day everyday.
@@workingman9745 5.3 will get everyday work done just as well as the 6.2 and get way better mpg. buy the 5.3 and save your money for penis enlargement, teeny weeny is more of your problem bud...
I think the 5.3 V8 is the best option, these engines are so underrated, if you don't mind the poor gas mileage, and you plan on racing a 1500 pickup truck, then the 6.2 liter engine would be a good choice. I need my 2015 5.3 V8 to do work, and it accomplishes that without any problems, and it has more than enough power to get the vehicle up to highway speed, as a matter of fact, the little 5.3 V8 had so much torque, it broke the motor mounts in my truck, got them replaced under warranty!!! I always love TFL's reviews.
You guys perform superb comparisons, far better than any other channel. As a 2017 F350 Diesel (SRW) owner, I am particularly intrigued by the tests you've conducted on Ford's new gas 7.3. It comes down to a contest between the 6.7 Diesel versus 7.3 gas. What is the choice given the gas engine's lower initial cost, lower maintenance costs, lighter weight = higher carrying payload, greater fuel availability, reasonably close MPG rating, reasonably close towing capacity, and better sound correspond to a better truck. A nice test to answer this and round out what you've tested so far would be to see how the 7.3 fare in more common conditions than pulling the maximum load and timing its ascent up the Ike grade. This would entail a moderate payload, say 10k lbs, and measuring parameters such as MPG, sound, personal impressions while driving through a range of conditions - towing at highways speed on level ground, climbing and descending Ike, and maybe a little windy dirt fire roads (with decent surface conditions) The bulk of truck owners will tow less than what is the rated maximum, and a relatively small portion of their driving will entail substantial grades. This test best addresses that audience.
Great truck. I have a 2019. 5.3. 8 speed LTZ z71. paid $47k. It has a lot more features. Roman, use the info screen and scroll to the off road screen that shows tire angle/grade angles. It shows the drive selection (big) and actively shows when tires are slipping. I drove the Ram, and it felt like the same old truck with flashy interior. The Chevy felt lighter, more responsive, better bed, with more useful cleaner interior. Ram had to go with a frame harmonic balancer to counteract engine shake. Chevy did it with cylinder deactivation tuning. My LTZ gets way better MPG. 21 combined in Colorado.
In regards to the title... There’s an old saying that goes along the lines of “no replacement for displacement”. So to answer that question, the answer is yes, you do need the big v8. Especially when the big v8 only gets 1mpg less on the highway. Also, the reason you can’t tell the difference between the 5.3L and the 6.2L blocks themselves without the actual labels is because they share the same block.
Without even seeing the video do you need the 6.2. 5.3 should be retired. No penalty for mpg and what could be the cost difference between the two engines. GM you can make your trucks exciting by just making a 6.2 engine standard
It is worth noting that the 6.2 actually tows less than the 5.3 unless you get the max trailering package. If you want the max trailering package, you cannot get the Z71 package. Overall I would pick the 5.3 for my needs. I dont need the larger V8. However the 6.2 is a beast.
I think the double cab should have just stayed the normal extended cab with the suicide style doors and no separate external handles. Looks better in my opinion.
My 1992 GMC had a 5.7 liter V8 that produced 190 horsepower. I still have it.......and have had a 2008 Nissan Titan that had a 5.6 liter V8 that pushed 317 horsepower. Both of those trucks did everything I needed them to do. I just bought a 2021 Sierra with the 5.3 liter v8.......and it pushes 355 horsepower. I'm still doing the same stuff with my truck that I've always done, so this rig is more than adequate. I'd have loved to have found mine with the 6.2, but an SLT, standard bed with the X31 package is almost impossible to find in my area.
Having owned the 6.2 for nearly five years, I have to say it’s The Bomb. Neither of these trucks should be used as suburban grocery-getters. Having a big displacement engine toodling along in stop and go traffic is guaranteed to use plenty of fuel. Let em stretch their legs on the highway and you’ll be amazed at what they can do with a gallon of gas. I’ve done a 400 mile average of over 24 mpg and even at 70, moderately loaded, you can expect better than 21, depending on terrain. Towing my 7600 lb GVWR travel trailer at 60, I get between 11 and 13. I doubt there’s a meaningful difference in highway mileage between the 5.3 and the 6.2 if you resist the temptation to use the extra power to dust off people at stoplights. One meaningful difference is that the 6.2 is a high compression engine “premium fuel recommended.” I don’t think the 5.3 has that requirement. The 6.2 runs happy enough on 89 octane if you’re not making it work too hard and with somewhat less performance. I’ve never run mine with anything other than premium when I’ve been towing. Stoplight drag racers should know that, even on dry pavement, full throttle starts will produce lots of wheel spin even with the locking differential. So, always engage “4wd auto” for the lowest ETs. With 97,000 miles on the odometer, the 6.2 has been stone reliable.
I bought the 6.2 in 2020 mainly for towing our 26' pull behind camper (5600 lbs). Does better on the expressway. not going from one hill to the next then the semi passes you again. 6.2 you can pass a semi and leave him behind you. I still get 19 mpg on the expressway. We leased in 2020 and bought it outright in 2023.
Try accelerating in 2 Wheel sport mode. The auto all-wheel-drive mode slows it down a lot running the front differential. I have the same truck and have felt the difference. Would also be 58 DB in 2wd. Also connect your phone using the usb or lightning plug in the console box. Then run the wire through where the console hinges (the usb cable won’t pinch, they designed it this way) then place your phone in the cutout near your right elbow on console, with the cable going back towards the rear seat into the console. You can open the console while leaving your phone plugged in and cable out of the way. Hold the speak button down longer to command siri to find snarfs using carplay.
I owned a 2010 LTZ 5.3 double cab, regular bed, just bought a 2015 LTZ 6.2 double cab regular bed. The 15 has towing package, the 10 was Z71. I loved the 10, a great truck, original owner towed his boat with it and it was ate up with rust from the axle back underneath. So I had to let her go and got the 15. The 6.2 ain't no joke, great power and as good or better mileage than the 10. I will say I liked the seats better in the 10, felt like I was in the seat the 15 feels like I'm on the seat, not uncomfortable just different. I miss my 10 but the 15 is very nice. Love me some chevys. Great video, thanks. 👍👍🏁
@@coreypatterson1386 I will admit my wording was slightly off. From my friends comments, 87 always caused knocking in his 6.2. Which relates to what you see in the manual. Here is the actual wording from the 2018 GMC Sierra Owners manual. Page 299. Added in next reply:
Except the 6.2L engine, use regular unleaded gasoline meeting ASTM specification D4814 with a posted octane rating of 87 or higher. Do not use gasoline with a posted octane rating of less than 87, as this may cause engine knock and will lower fuel economy.For the 6.2L engine, premium unleaded gasoline meeting ASTM specification D4814 with a posted octane rating of 93 is highly recommended for best performance and fuel economy. Unleaded gasoline with an octane rated as low as 87 can be used. Using unleaded gasoline rated below 93 octane,however, will lead to reduced acceleration and fuel economy.If knocking occurs, use a gasoline rated at 93 octane as soon as possible, otherwise, the engine could be damaged.
I had a chance to drive both a mid grade 2020 Silverado 5.3L and 2020 Ram 1500 5.7L. Both trucks when spec’d out are about the same price and drove each for about a week. If it was my money I’d take the Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi, no questions. I though the 5.3L was such a dog and lacked the V8 grunt that I actually had to pop the hood to check and see if it was a V8. The interior is very spartan and cheap looking. It was a very basic truck. On the other hand the Ram 1500, again a low to mid grade model, felt like a much more expensive truck. First off that 5.7L hemi hauled ass and kept going chugging along and this was at 9000ft elevation in the Utah mountains. The interior is very nice for a mid grade model and had all the features you could ask for such as front & rear cameras, Apple CarPlay & android auto, heated steering wheel, heated seats, and a plethora of connectivity features. I’m not a fan of either Chevy or Ram and I have always been negative about FCA/Ram but I have to say for the short week I had the truck it impressed the hell out of me.
I've been in Chevys my whole life, and had a lot of miles with the 5.3 leading the way. Currently in a 2019 Silverado LT with the second equipment group and couldn't be happier. I need my truck to be a TRUCK before anything else and that's something GM has right.
I just picked up a 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country with the 6.2. It really pulls you back in your seat compared to the 5.3, but the msrp is crazy. I paid just over 70k here in Canada
In 2014 I bought a Silverado with the venerable 5.3 l and it gave me all the performance I needed and, AND good fuel economy too. For my uses,.I found that engine to be just dandy and had no need of more power ( fuel consumption ) in my truck. I did enjoy this video,..it contains all kinds of useful information and good 'chit-chat', thank you TFL-T.
We have a 2012 Yukon Denali with the 6.2. Back then they were rated for 402 hp and we chose to pay a little more for the Denali specifically for that motor and the full time AWD because we tow a lot and deal with slippery boat launches. If you have ever seen someone try to pull a boat out of the water with anything 2wd you get what I am saying. The 6.2 is an awesome motor. It never feels under powered and 120k so far with zero issues.
I daily a 19 Silver 1500, 4.3 V6, 6 speed, 4X4, reg cab long box. I love the truck and it can take any snow or well WELL below 0F cold that Minnesota can throw at it. That auto mode they have now is so great, I've honestly not even had to touch diff locking 4X4 other then when I'm playing in heavy duty off roading.
Squirrel Bobber lower trims are honestly way better, old classic tech is what real truck owners love, these 8 speed autos are for city slickers just like those new rams and twin turbocharged f150’s
On my 2016 LTZ 2500 I could send directions to the truck, which was huge helpful when my wife couldn't find a place. We still talk about how cool that was.
My Company just received their 2020 Crew Cab Standard Bed High Country 1500 4x4 with Max Tow package, Towing mirrors, and the 6.2L V8/10-Speed Trans. I beautiful looking truck in the Iridescent Pearl Tricoat Exterior Color. The MSRP was $67,265 and they got theirs for $65,101. 2,010 Lbs Max Payload 12,000 Lbs Max Conventional Towing
I don't even have to watch this u always need more power. I've never heard anyone say man that's just to much power. That's 6.2 badge looks cheesy. Looks like autozone emblems.
I like the 6.2 badge because it's from the factory, not some add on from ebay. Power badges are from days gone, and used to adorn all powerful engines from the factory. They don't put it on the 5.3 because that engine is nothing but a base V8. Put a 5.3 badge on, now that is cheesy.
@@mjbakedbeans having owned a couple of each, my 6.2 powered trucks and SUVs, always managed fuel economy that was very close to my 5.3's. So close that I couldn't even be positive if the 5.3 even gave an actual advantage.
I have a 2015 Yukon SLT 5.3 4x4 and I raced my buddy that has a 2015 GMC Yukon Denali 2WD. Upgrades to the 5.3 is a full exhaust with hi-flow cats and the 6.2 has a cold air intake. We lined up and the 6.2 straight walked the 5.3 but not as bad as I thought.
As a Ford Fanboy the 5.3 is the only engine i can defend & respect. When i worked as a Lube tech those 5.3s would come in with 300k + miles and would still drive brand new
@@benjaminwayneb I'm speaking on the old vortech 5.3s. We didnt get many new 5.3s 2014+. & if we did at that time it was less than 10k miles because it was still new
The Fast lane Truck - If you purchased the TrailBoss. OnStar should have been activated by the dealership the day that you took delivery of the vehicle. You should contact the dealership to determine the length of the free activation. My OnStar subscription was activated for 3 years by the dealership.
i would definitely go with the trailboss, 5.3 is nice and 6.2 if fine but really only adds less than 200 lbs of payload. my 5.7 has 10500 towing and 1660 payload. really the only thing its missing i wish my truck had is 4x4.
Hello, quick question. I have a 2019 Silverado Z71 RST. The speedometer goes up to 200 mph. Is that correct??? Every video I have watched on the same truck, has a speedometer at 140 mph. I am confused!!! Please clarify!!!
So it would be apples to oranges to tomatoes instead of just apples to oranges? What have you been "waiting for"? Two clowns to "test drive" two very different trucks for you because you clearly can't do any real research and test-driving for yourself even though you're "truck shopping"?
It's clear who does his homework.(thank you Andre) And Roman less wining please.Still love the channel for the real world honest reviews.Just got a 2020 Silverado high country 3.0 diesel and love it.Averaging 25 MPG and that's mountain driving here in Estes Park Colorado and down to boulder.Thanks to the turbo the truck climbs with no effort even at 8000 ft. and that's really why I have always owned diesels. Swapped out the 22 inch wheels for some 20's with snow tires and the truck has handled the snow with no issues.And yes the 4WD auto mode is a great thing to have when roads go between dry and snow covered.Have owned many 4WD trucks without a auto mode and always having to shift in and out constantly gets old especially when the wife is driving.
Owned new Silverados from 2012 . Drove a 19 ram last year and traded both GMs . GM have cut corners and tried to save money and it shows The cab is ghastly! Plastic crap all over . The 2" lift makes it tippy and rolly. Not a good truck.
A friend of mine bought a new Ram and after about 6 months, he traded it in for a Chevy. He had a lot of problems with the Ram. He also said that big 12in screen, stunk. The camera & Nav didn’t use the entire screen. Why have that big of a screen then?
I have the 2019 Trail Boss. The traction control is way too sensitive. Can't have too much off road fun (Trail Boss?) in the truck with that BS. When you turn ESC off, it comes back on at 35 MPH. I wish I would have waited for the 6.2L as there is a huge difference is power. The 5.3L might be reliable as everyone on here is stating, but its still lacks excitement. The truck is solid and great overall, just pointing out some of the downsides. Keep up the great content TFL!
Not to mention GM vehicles "learn" drivers habits and will "run harder" over time the "harder you drive them". Taller tires also effectively raise the differential gear ratio giving the engine less mechanical advantage over larger, heavier wheels and tires. Even a speedometer calibration doesn't "correct" the powertrain controller's "expectation" that after a given time at WOT with a given powertrain in a given vehicle the vehicle should by traveling "X" speed unless the vehicle is "loaded". And since "smart" electronic powertrain controllers are "pro-active" instead of "re-active" and avoid "overloading" the engine to the point of "spark knock" instead of going to a "full power" fuel and timing "tune" until the "knock sensors" sense detonation and then "detune" the engine back to "base" low "performance" (including low "fuel economy") so-called "tuning", the "big tires" can have even more detrimental effect. Then there's the "brains" realizing bigger, heavier trucks and tires take more time and distance to stop AND are not intended for "high performance" on the STREET and in fact reduce "traction" by spreading slightly more weight over much more surface area reducing "unit pressure" and the tires' and vehicle's "grip" on the "road". A "couple inches" may not seem like a big deal but when you get pi involved a "small" increase in diameter produces a disproportionate increase in circumference over the "base" tire diameter. I could get into the cold and damp weather conditions; the fact that the truck as a whole is never "warmed up" to anywhere near full "operating temp" of the engine, trans, transfer case, axles, wheel bearings etc; the unmentioned fuel "grade" and octane; the "altitude" the "testing" is conducted at and the overall complete and total lack of anything remotely resembling "scientific testing" beginning with an "apples to oranges" comparison of the two "test vehicles" themselves. But ultimately since the real purpose of this "test" it to imply/suggest that there are no new "Chevy" gas-burners in the 2020 "Silverado" truck "lineup" and that the "big boy" engine therein/thereof is still the 6.2 "LS" and only Ford has a new gasoline "pushrod V8" and a "big-block" called "Godzilla" no less because for some reason no "independent" and/or "unbiased" so-called "truck reviewer" seems remotely aware of or interested in the new heavy-duty non-"LS" GM 6.6-liter "gas burner" engine option for 2500 and 3500 "Chevys" OR the also brand-new V6 Duramax diesel engine for "Chevy" 1500s (they never mention GMC) and that ONLY FORD HAS ANYTHING "NEW" IN ITS "F-SERIES LINEUP", there's no point in "educating" the "truck enthusiasts" on just how worthless this "test" and the "experts" conducting it are for any but "entertainment" purposes.
Idk why everyone is hating on the 5.3 I think it’s great and easy to mod. I went a little cheaper and got the 2019 custom trail boss 5.3 with the 6 speed and I love it.
Hey what programmer do you have? I took my trailboss to a performance shop and they said they couldn’t even tune it cuz had to ship computer outa country.
It is actually a marginal difference on the 5.3. Tune, and exhaust, intake, you are maybe talking like 35hp gain,and 25-30lbs of torque. It will make a difference, is it worth idk. If you want more power , buy the 6.2 period.
I have a 2016 LTZ with the 5.3 and a 2019 LTZ with the 6.2. The 2019 is replacing the 2016 because I now tow and the 5.3 just didn't cut it. Plus, the 5.3 is mated to a 6 speed vs the 6.2 being mated to the 10 speed. The 2019 also has the Max Trailering package and is just much better suited to towing. The 2016 will be repositioned to our Arizona winter home, where it will only have to tow a small 13 foot trailer, which it is fully capable of doing.
Trail Boss equals an FX4 with Off Road Tires, Chevy’s half hearted attempt to compete with Ford & Dodge. It’s clear, Power Wagon & Raptor are at the top
Yeah its half assed, but the Custom Trailboss with 6.2 and 10 speed starts at $41,000. Leaves a lot of money for front and rear lockers, 4.10's and upgraded shocks.
Who wants a useless Raptor with a gae V6 that cant tow 5,000lbs? Ya, you may be able to rip across the beach faster that one time per year that you go, but is that worth living with a sports car truck that cant do truck things? Raptor is a great choice for guys that dont need trucks, but A SxS.
I have a 21 LT Trail Boss w/ the 6.2l, 10 speed, and GM performance package and love it! I just had 2000 lbs of deer corn in the bed while towing a 6 person side by side. It did great!
From experience I'd buy the 6.2 gasser over the 5.3. I've driven the 5.3 and was sadly disappointed in the power. I ended up with a happy medium 5.6liter Nissan Titan peppy and fun to drive. But if I'd bought the Gm, the 6.2 is the only way to go
Guys who aren't really truck guys reviewing trucks. Just a little FYI, the reason they still offer a double cab is it still a real truck. It's got a longer 7 foot bed and 3/4 ton payload. It's got tons of power for towing. And it's got towing mirrors. Is it a spacious as the crew cab, no. Does it do the job as a truck better? Maybe. I don't think it is necessarily less truck than a crew cab that goes off road which as we all know people rarely do in their truck anyways.
I’ve had 5 5.3s (ls 5.3s) I’ve now had a lt 6.2 for a little over a year. Now I’m comparing a ls and lt based motor, but after getting the 6.2 I swore I’d never buy another 5.3. I get better mpg out of my 6.2 then I got with any of the 5.3s. I admit that I don’t drive them very easy (2500-3500 rpms at every stop). Dad recently bought a 2020 with the lt 5.3 it has really surprised me in comparison to the ls based motor, his is an rst mines a Denali so his has 20in rims mines up graded to 22s but both basically have street tires. Fuel mileage he’s actually a little lower than my 6.2 (he drives basically the same as me) but his truck also isn’t broken in yet! I think the big difference will be the way the 2 tow, my 6.2 tow’s the same trailer better than the ls 5.3, but this summer we’ll find out how his pulls the trailer.
My 2018 6.2l 8 spd has spoiled me compared to my Step Dad's 2018 5.3l 6spd when towing a trailer. There's no comparison! I'm sure the 2020 6.2l 10 spd is even better!
TFL for sea level 0-60 check put Cr and Driver. They list the following 6 2L 5.4 sec 5.3L 6.1 sec 2.7T 7.0 sec I really appreciate Roman's take on the interior , I feel the same. Yes the RAM in some trims is nicer. But the LT trail boss is nice, functional and good quality. There is some soft touch materials too.
That's not accurate , I own a 2.7 . I can 100% tell you it is much quicker , and produces significantly more low end torque then the 5.3. I have seen the dyno numbers to prove stock, and tuned. The 6.2 is a little quicker stock. Tuned the 2.7 would beat the 6.2 as well. I personally don't buy a truck for racing , hope this helps.
@@calebniederhofer6529 we've got a 2.7 on our lot. It's quick., but the 5.3 is def faster. Plenty of other sources that have tested them too. They feel fasr because of the torque surge. But they lack top end.
@@terrencejones9817 I am talking about the EB 2.7 lol. I probably should have clarified that in the comment . You are correct on GM 2.7 . It is actually not far off though from the 5.3 in 0-60 like a 1 sec difference , but yes the 5.3 pulls away on top end for sure . However at a high elevation , the 2.7 could actually outperform the 5.3 NA motor .
@@terrencejones9817 I should have realized you were referring to GM 2.7 my bad on that. I still think GM made a huge mistake with the 2.7 . I just think american truck buyers don't want a turbo 4 banger , in a half ton . I personally think this was a perfect motor for the colorado, and a chance for GM to take over the market in smaller trucks .
On the contrary, my 2018 1500 patrol pickup as the foldable tow mirrors. Pros: lots of viewing area and obviously nice for towing. Cons: I had to disconnect the LED blinkers on the mirror side because of the insane brightness at night. Also I have to fold the driver side in and hug that side of the garage so close it causes a slight amount of pucker factor. Thanks again for another great comparison video!
Thank you TFL for all of the great quality entertainment everyday!
Yeah yeah great quuuualityyyy🙃🙂🙃
@@hemi5.7awdpursuit5 l
@@hemi5.7awdpursuit5 117
Amen
6.2 time was 7.7 seconds
5.3 time was 9.46 seconds
Time about 23:30 ish
You are welcome.
Some heroes don’t wear capes
That’s slow. Some 6.2L K2 guys were pulling 5.7sec 0-60. Wonder why is its almost 8 seconds now.
We love you
It looked like he was going uphill
@@ChuckBeefOG because they are a mile above sea level. Huge difference in performance.
Idc if its 5.3 or 6.2 just give me a freakin V8 chevy and i’ll be happy
Only if it comes with a few spare transmissions
@@googlemail6996 few spare lifters 😂😂😂 not transmission those lifters are dead
You don’t have a very high standard.
@@timesatease7435 Not too unreliable but such dog slow
@@ericschellpeper7965 blahblahblah, Karen.
Andre is the genuine, excited and knowledgeable person that will take TFL Truck to 1,000,000 subscribers. No one else
A K , I agree 100%
Agreed!
Daaa!
In my opinion they all have their place in TFL.
He's a great person to work with too
When it comes to trucks in America, “need” is subjective. Gimme that 6.2L
Lol give me a 454 or 350.
SOU6900 dude the 454 and 350 literally made half the power of the 6.2 and 5.3...
@@jaredchampagne2752 😆 who gives a shit?
Jared Champagne I’ve seen 454s make well over 600 hp
@@EliteFlight were those truck engines by any chance? Just curious.
As someone who has driven the 5.3 since they were first in the Silverado truck (and the 5.7 before it), you will be hard pressed to find a more reliable engine. I drove my last one to 227k and it was still going at 335k. I bought my first 6.2 in 2015 and was so impressed immediately by the power and ease it moved the big 1500 crew Denali. Have 120k on it and still going strong
So 6.2 is worth getting? Over the 5.3
@@mscottlawrence2037 Absolutely! More power, negligent gas difference (very, very little) and you get a slight lower rear end gear 3:23. The 5.3 has a 3:42 or tow package a 3:73. So unless you plan on towing a lot, cannot reccomend a 6.2 more! And better resale value. In my 2015 it had an 8 speed Trans. Now they are 10.
@@williamfrazier3822 man that's awesome thanks so much for the info, I know they have the 2.7 also, I don't really tow much but I would probably go with the 6.2 anyway
@@mscottlawrence2037 whatever you'll use it for the most
The 5.3 and 6.2 are basically same engine, just different stroke and bore.
So someone ordered a 6.2 RST with the tow mirrors, but didn't get the max tow package? They were $890 away from 3,000 more lbs of towing capacity.
Maybe they're planning to tow a light trailer.
@@Darndiddlyarn 890$ I'm sure you can talk the dealership into
You cant get an RST with the 6.2
Jared Champagne
You sure can in 2020. Also both Trail Bosses.
That is an rst with the 6.2, so yea...you can
Not sure why so much hate for 5.3L. Plenty of power, nice exhaust note and great on gas.
Plenty of power, unless you are towing.
Very weak engine for towing. Know this from experience. Both these engines will blow up before 100k anyway. Garbage cylinder deactivation engines
Bring back the original 5.3 I'm talking about the one from 2000-2001 I know it came out in 99 but I just don't like first year stuff they usually will fix the weak spots with time.
The 5.3 I had on my 2015 LT Silverado was OK for towing my 20 foot camper on relatively flat ground. Put that motor into slight hills and long grades and it seemed to work a little too hard. I got stranded out in South Dakota when the lifters failed while camping. A total lifter job and we were back on the road again but, $5,300 lighter in the wallet. Chevy gave me a voucher on my new 2024 LTZ with a 6.2. I will take possesion of my new rig in a few weeks. I know the 6.2 will outperform my 5.3 hands down because it has more ponies, torque and, a 10 speed tranny. I can't wait for my new rig!
I had a 2022 Trail Boss LT. No DFM or auto start-stop due to chip shortages. The fuel mileage was horrendous.
Anyone can post a LOT of videos. But TFL trucks keeps us entertained with lots of HIGH QUALITY videos. Thank you so much for your passion about trucks & trailers.
I’ve had a 5.3 for years, I maintain it, but I plow and tow with it. Never had a problem.
Eric's Shop / roadside manners maintenance is key with any of the engines.. they’ll all fail if u don’t maintain them
There you go, take care of it, it’ll take care of you. 5.3 r damn good engines.
5.4 in my 99 F-250 now has 257,000 miles. Change oil and use Marvels Mystery oil.
I have 2 older chevys with 5.3s that have 280k on them and my dad has one with 580k original engine 2nd trans. They all run great. 1qt of lucas oil treatment every oil change and they live forever.
Evans Automotive I have a 03 with 320k running strong. only changed the water pump. I change my oil every 4000miles with Mag 1. Love these older vortec’s, bulletproof.
I’ve been with the good old 5.3 from my 2001 Silverado and 2012 Silverado up till 2019 Silverado and in neither of those 3 trucks had it broken down or had mayor issues great old durable engines
Interesting. When I bought my Colorado the dealership sat with me to activate OnStar before I left the dealership. They also went over all the features of the vehicle.
Kabloosh that’s what they’re supposed to do. The dealership gets credit for activation and welcome calls.
Unlucky. That means on star will torture for 10 years after you sell it.
I hate onstar
Same when I bought my impala
Isn't it great to have a system in your truck where the cops can listen to your conversations without a warrant?
You forgot to mention that they recommend premium fuel in the 6.2. As opposed to regular unleaded in the 5.3. Up here in Canada premium is .21 cents per litre more. Which adds up over time. One of the main reasons I stayed with the 5.3
Why would you put anything less than premium in a new truck.Keep all youre contacts,and fuel system as clean as possible.I have an RST with a 6.2 crew cab.Turn off auto stop,put it in sports mode and let her purr.....
@@jaydoublebusy Premium fuel and 87 octane fuel are the same as for keeping your engine clean (at least with the big name oil companies, maybe not an off-brand discount station). It is just a higher octane number which some engines may require or the manufacturer just recommends for maximum performance. In the latter case, 87 would be fine, just a little less power. Going on a long highway run thru several states fairly light, go 87, save some $$. Need more power for that heavy load, go 92-94 premium.
@@jaydoublebusy you, apparently, don't understand what octane really does.
@@ksamos 87 does NOT have less power.
An 11.5:1 compression ratio does not need premium fuel.
I’ll take the LT Trail Boss with the 6.2
Yep
GMC All Terrain ftw
6.2l Trail Boss would be the best for me too.
I'd take a 7.3 tremor
Can’t get a trail boss with a 6.2
6.2 baby, I'm glad to have it under my hood. I stick it to the floor board everytime I hit interstate 65.
The fact that the 6.2 was so limited in its availability is a huge part of the reason why the 5.3 is the most popular GM truck engine. Now that the 6.2 is offered in many more models, all of which are much more affordable, the 6.2 might just become as popular as the 5.3... Anyhow, in regular use the 6.2 has very similar MPG to the 5.3 while having a lot more power, all for about 2000$, so in my opinion it's more than worth it and I would never buy a 5.3 now. So NO you don't really NEED the bigger V8, but should you get it anyways ? YES you should !
Nah. Only get 6.2 if you really do tow a whole lot more than 5.3 does. Or, if you are a "mine is bigger than yours" ha ha ha guy.
Yes, we need the 6.2 L V8.
I own a Camaro SS. I traded a Dodge Charger R/T in on it about 6 months ago. I loved that car but I knew on the day I lost a race to a GMC Sierra loaded with passengers and a 6.2L V8 that the Bitch had to go! Mind you, I had no passengers in the car at the time.
I know that displacement must be factored into the outcome, (5.7 Liter Hemi vs 6.2 Liter LT1), but we’re talking a ton to a ton and a half weight difference between the truck and my then car. I agree with you; we need the 6.2 simply because that engine is a BEAST. Performance is consistent and power/torque delivery is linear. Overall great engine in the truck 🚛 but an even better engine in the car! 🚗
That's The Truth!
The people calling the 5.3 a dog have never driven a truck from the 80s or 90s.
I have a video on my favorites list of a 2000 Silverado with 300k+ doing 0-60 in like 8-9 seconds
Or the 40s or 30s!
McCuck81 the 5.3 is a very good engine for what it is.
@@samsquires2877 It was a better engine before 2014, Ecotec was an all new engine and went to direct injection.
Well, we’re not in the 80s and 90s anymore, this is 2020. I think the 5.3 is fine if you’re not towing heavy loads very often. If you are, you definitely want more power.
As far as giving accurate and concise information about the vehicles you review, I believe you have the BEST channel on TH-cam! Keep up the Great work!
This trailboss series is gonna be great. I love that truck
Thank you TFL! You helped me buy my first truck. I got the 2020 Chevy 1500 Trail Boss 6.2L V8. Great to see some of you guys from CO doing what you love. I'm from Littleton.
What gas mileage are you averaging?
@@nitepidgeon I'm averaging about 16 miles to the gallon.
@@sven_the_giant that’s not too bad
@@sven_the_giant is that highway or around town?
@@nitepidgeon that's around town. 19 on the highway
My trail boss with the flowmaster american thunder cat back and corsa cold air intake is plenty fast especially for a 4x4. I did want the 6.2 when I bought mine but it wasn't available at the time... shortly after it became available.. smh 5.3 still puts a smile on my face 😎 Great vid guys!
My old truck was a fully tuned 06 GMC sierra with the 5.3, extended cab, and the 3.73:1 gears. It would easily roast the two tires with the G80 and put you in the back seat in passing gear. When I bought my crew cab 4x4 2018 GMC sierra I test drove the 5.3. While it pulled pretty good off the line, it had trouble finding its way out of a wet paper sack on the freeway! I bought the 6.2 with the 8 speed and have enjoyed it ever since!
Bring back the regular cab short box in 2wd with that 6.2 engine. Now that would be a fun rst.
Yep...hotrod truck!!!!!
And a supercharger
A pickup isn’t a family car. Most times the lack of passenger room makes for a better experience imho. Nothing like 3 brats in the back seat complaining ( those back seats are uncomfortable) and fighting with each other to make a afternoon out feel just like HOME!
Gm hasn't done a decent performance truck since the syclone.
I want a 4x4 All Terrain with an LT4 and big brakes.
I’ll take the 6.2 in any configuration. Once you own one you’ll never go back to a 5.3.
Fell in love with mine before I even tuned it ... next year it’s getting a magnuson supercharger. Can’t wait
@@derekchauvinisahero2010 It will be even better the following year when you add the turbo fan jet Boeing 737 engine. Maybe a Space Shuttle engine the year after that?
I’ve owned both a 2020 LT Trail Boss 5.3 and a 2020 LT Trail Boss 6.2.
Get the 6.2
I regretted not getting the 6.2 so I found one then went and traded for it. Best decision I’ve ever made. There really is no comparison. My 6.2 has lifetime powertrain warranty as well. Double win.
I just bought the 5.3 Lt three days ago and I freaking love it....
I got the GMC with the 5.3 four days ago. It's plenty for what I need. It's a nice little engine that feels solid. I only tow a small camper and a ski boat. I'm sure it'll be more than capable.
I’m looking at the Yukon’s and one model is 5.3L and the other 6.2L. Does the 5.3L and 6.2 take different kinds of gas? I’m coming from a V6 and only need the cheaper unleaded gas. But I also want an engine that can get out of its own way. The 5.3L will do that?
@@hollywood5163 5.3 is not a weak engine. It uses regular unleaded, 6.2 is stronger but uses only premium. Long story short...the 5.3 is more than enough engine for most people and their planned usage, it will indeed get out of it's own way.
You will be very happy with the 5.3. Sweet, sweet engine. Very few people tow more than about 9,500 lbs. Up to and including 9,500 lbs, the 5.3 is marvelous.
I just bought a new-to-me 2016 GMC Sierra Crew Cab SLT 4x4 with 65,000 miles. I looked for two months for one with a standard 6.6" box and the 6.2L, 8-speed...The 5.3L Sierras were plentiful. The 6.2L's, not so much. For me, getting 65 more horse power for basically the same price was the only way to go. I couldn't be happier.
We use pickup trucks for snow plowing. Having big mirrors are invaluable. I've used both and having bigger mirrors helps tremendously.
That 6.2L Big Boy V8 Doesn't Lie Because I'm In Love With It!
I haven't watched the video yet, but I would like to start by saying... Yes, I need the big V8 because of the simple rationalization of I want a huge engine. I might not need it, but I definitely want it. Big V8's all day everyday.
I love the realness of it. The "edit in real time without actually editing it out makes it hilarious. Bravo
Remember: 5.3 takes regular gas. 6.2 takes premium.
Yep
It’s recommended. No required. Runs slightly better. I have the 6.2 and run 87 all the time
If you can't afford the difference between the regular and premium gas maybe you should just get a smart car 😏
@@workingman9745 5.3 will get everyday work done just as well as the 6.2 and get way better mpg. buy the 5.3 and save your money for penis enlargement, teeny weeny is more of your problem bud...
@@workingman9745like you not having a woman
I think the 5.3 V8 is the best option, these engines are so underrated, if you don't mind the poor gas mileage, and you plan on racing a 1500 pickup truck, then the 6.2 liter engine would be a good choice. I need my 2015 5.3 V8 to do work, and it accomplishes that without any problems, and it has more than enough power to get the vehicle up to highway speed, as a matter of fact, the little 5.3 V8 had so much torque, it broke the motor mounts in my truck, got them replaced under warranty!!! I always love TFL's reviews.
You guys perform superb comparisons, far better than any other channel. As a 2017 F350 Diesel (SRW) owner, I am particularly intrigued by the tests you've conducted on Ford's new gas 7.3. It comes down to a contest between the 6.7 Diesel versus 7.3 gas. What is the choice given the gas engine's lower initial cost, lower maintenance costs, lighter weight = higher carrying payload, greater fuel availability, reasonably close MPG rating, reasonably close towing capacity, and better sound correspond to a better truck.
A nice test to answer this and round out what you've tested so far would be to see how the 7.3 fare in more common conditions than pulling the maximum load and timing its ascent up the Ike grade. This would entail a moderate payload, say 10k lbs, and measuring parameters such as MPG, sound, personal impressions while driving through a range of conditions - towing at highways speed on level ground, climbing and descending Ike, and maybe a little windy dirt fire roads (with decent surface conditions)
The bulk of truck owners will tow less than what is the rated maximum, and a relatively small portion of their driving will entail substantial grades. This test best addresses that audience.
2 old school engines whose best years are behind it. RIP Vortec engines and long live ECOBOOST.
I'm so happy you guys did did because I'm considering the 5.3 and had the same questions. Thanks for putting out awesome content. Keep at it
Great truck. I have a 2019. 5.3. 8 speed LTZ z71. paid $47k. It has a lot more features. Roman, use the info screen and scroll to the off road screen that shows tire angle/grade angles. It shows the drive selection (big) and actively shows when tires are slipping. I drove the Ram, and it felt like the same old truck with flashy interior. The Chevy felt lighter, more responsive, better bed, with more useful cleaner interior. Ram had to go with a frame harmonic balancer to counteract engine shake. Chevy did it with cylinder deactivation tuning. My LTZ gets way better MPG. 21 combined in Colorado.
The 6.2 is unquestionably the engine to get. It sounds better, is a lot more powerful yet gets nearly the same fuel economy.
And one takes premium and the other takes 87.. big difference at the pump
@@Steviethegr8 Not if you live in countries where you have only premium :)
Down round these parts premyum is mighty expensive
In regards to the title... There’s an old saying that goes along the lines of “no replacement for displacement”.
So to answer that question, the answer is yes, you do need the big v8. Especially when the big v8 only gets 1mpg less on the highway.
Also, the reason you can’t tell the difference between the 5.3L and the 6.2L blocks themselves without the actual labels is because they share the same block.
Yeah but you need premium gas....
Air density is a replacement for displacement. Turbos rule! GM needs to get with the program
@@raphaeldumont-lavoie1985 you don't NEED premium, gm recommends it for peak performance.
@@jondreger I fell like that is the start of a knock knock joke ... Poor valves
@@raphaeldumont-lavoie1985 Eh, spend a little more and get considerably more performance.
Without even seeing the video do you need the 6.2. 5.3 should be retired. No penalty for mpg and what could be the cost difference between the two engines. GM you can make your trucks exciting by just making a 6.2 engine standard
No way on the 6.2. You have to use premium to get rated hp and mpg. 5.3 is the most popular engine for a reason.
MrChadx1 agreed if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.
It is worth noting that the 6.2 actually tows less than the 5.3 unless you get the max trailering package. If you want the max trailering package, you cannot get the Z71 package. Overall I would pick the 5.3 for my needs. I dont need the larger V8. However the 6.2 is a beast.
Wrong, I have the 6.2 with Z71 and max trailer package
The best part of waking up is TFL in your cup!
TFL coffee blend? I got a name for it: TFL Wake Breakfast Blend. I'd sign up for some.
I think the double cab should have just stayed the normal extended cab with the suicide style doors and no separate external handles. Looks better in my opinion.
Alot more room means alot if u use your truck as a truck anyway its for work not pretty
The custom trail boss is the way to go. 6.2 all for under 40k
You can't get the 6.2 in the custom trail boss
@@oneqwickbird you can. In the 2020
@@oneqwickbird Sure you can.
@@oneqwickbird go to the chevy website right now. 2020 custom trailboss 6.2 about 40000
You can do that. But you get shitt Halogen head lamps. I opted for the LT.
My 1992 GMC had a 5.7 liter V8 that produced 190 horsepower. I still have it.......and have had a 2008 Nissan Titan that had a 5.6 liter V8 that pushed 317 horsepower. Both of those trucks did everything I needed them to do. I just bought a 2021 Sierra with the 5.3 liter v8.......and it pushes 355 horsepower. I'm still doing the same stuff with my truck that I've always done, so this rig is more than adequate. I'd have loved to have found mine with the 6.2, but an SLT, standard bed with the X31 package is almost impossible to find in my area.
Having owned the 6.2 for nearly five years, I have to say it’s The Bomb. Neither of these trucks should be used as suburban grocery-getters. Having a big displacement engine toodling along in stop and go traffic is guaranteed to use plenty of fuel. Let em stretch their legs on the highway and you’ll be amazed at what they can do with a gallon of gas. I’ve done a 400 mile average of over 24 mpg and even at 70, moderately loaded, you can expect better than 21, depending on terrain. Towing my 7600 lb GVWR travel trailer at 60, I get between 11 and 13. I doubt there’s a meaningful difference in highway mileage between the 5.3 and the 6.2 if you resist the temptation to use the extra power to dust off people at stoplights. One meaningful difference is that the 6.2 is a high compression engine “premium fuel recommended.” I don’t think the 5.3 has that requirement. The 6.2 runs happy enough on 89 octane if you’re not making it work too hard and with somewhat less performance. I’ve never run mine with anything other than premium when I’ve been towing. Stoplight drag racers should know that, even on dry pavement, full throttle starts will produce lots of wheel spin even with the locking differential. So, always engage “4wd auto” for the lowest ETs. With 97,000 miles on the odometer, the 6.2 has been stone reliable.
Just wanted to say this was really helpful from an actual owner's perspective!
14 mpg at 90 on the highway
I bought the 6.2 in 2020 mainly for towing our 26' pull behind camper (5600 lbs). Does better on the expressway. not going from one hill to the next then the semi passes you again. 6.2 you can pass a semi and leave him behind you. I still get 19 mpg on the expressway. We leased in 2020 and bought it outright in 2023.
Try accelerating in 2 Wheel sport mode. The auto all-wheel-drive mode slows it down a lot running the front differential. I have the same truck and have felt the difference. Would also be 58 DB in 2wd. Also connect your phone using the usb or lightning plug in the console box. Then run the wire through where the console hinges (the usb cable won’t pinch, they designed it this way) then place your phone in the cutout near your right elbow on console, with the cable going back towards the rear seat into the console. You can open the console while leaving your phone plugged in and cable out of the way. Hold the speak button down longer to command siri to find snarfs using carplay.
I owned a 2010 LTZ 5.3 double cab, regular bed, just bought a 2015 LTZ 6.2 double cab regular bed. The 15 has towing package, the 10 was Z71. I loved the 10, a great truck, original owner towed his boat with it and it was ate up with rust from the axle back underneath. So I had to let her go and got the 15. The 6.2 ain't no joke, great power and as good or better mileage than the 10. I will say I liked the seats better in the 10, felt like I was in the seat the 15 feels like I'm on the seat, not uncomfortable just different. I miss my 10 but the 15 is very nice. Love me some chevys. Great video, thanks. 👍👍🏁
6.2 requires Premium Gas. I'll keep my 5.3 and my money and you can keep the 1.7 seconds.
Who and where does it state the 6.2 requires premium gas?
@@coreypatterson1386 I will admit my wording was slightly off. From my friends comments, 87 always caused knocking in his 6.2. Which relates to what you see in the manual. Here is the actual wording from the 2018 GMC Sierra Owners manual. Page 299. Added in next reply:
Except the 6.2L engine, use regular unleaded gasoline meeting ASTM specification D4814 with a posted octane rating of 87 or higher. Do not use gasoline with a posted octane rating of less than 87, as this may cause engine knock and will lower fuel economy.For the 6.2L engine, premium unleaded gasoline meeting ASTM specification D4814 with a posted octane rating of 93 is highly recommended for best performance and fuel economy. Unleaded gasoline with an octane rated as low as 87 can be used. Using unleaded gasoline rated below 93 octane,however, will lead to reduced acceleration and fuel economy.If knocking occurs, use a gasoline rated at 93 octane as soon as possible, otherwise, the engine could be damaged.
Every time my friend tried 87 he had severe knocking and had to switch back to 93.
I had a chance to drive both a mid grade 2020 Silverado 5.3L and 2020 Ram 1500 5.7L. Both trucks when spec’d out are about the same price and drove each for about a week. If it was my money I’d take the Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi, no questions. I though the 5.3L was such a dog and lacked the V8 grunt that I actually had to pop the hood to check and see if it was a V8. The interior is very spartan and cheap looking. It was a very basic truck. On the other hand the Ram 1500, again a low to mid grade model, felt like a much more expensive truck. First off that 5.7L hemi hauled ass and kept going chugging along and this was at 9000ft elevation in the Utah mountains. The interior is very nice for a mid grade model and had all the features you could ask for such as front & rear cameras, Apple CarPlay & android auto, heated steering wheel, heated seats, and a plethora of connectivity features. I’m not a fan of either Chevy or Ram and I have always been negative about FCA/Ram but I have to say for the short week I had the truck it impressed the hell out of me.
I've been in Chevys my whole life, and had a lot of miles with the 5.3 leading the way. Currently in a 2019 Silverado LT with the second equipment group and couldn't be happier. I need my truck to be a TRUCK before anything else and that's something GM has right.
I just picked up a 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country with the 6.2. It really pulls you back in your seat compared to the 5.3, but the msrp is crazy. I paid just over 70k here in Canada
@@ThenotMrNiceGuy0109 Just over $70k?? How can you afford that? The interest will be through the roof by the time you pay off the truck
@@-Hood- he probably just has more money than you lol
@@-Hood- thats not half of it. I'm also just 20 years old. 😂 I come from a rich family, thats why lol
@@joseph151 just a rich family lol 😂😂
In 2014 I bought a Silverado with the venerable 5.3 l and it gave me all the performance I needed and, AND good fuel economy too. For my uses,.I found that engine to be just dandy and
had no need of more power ( fuel consumption ) in my truck.
I did enjoy this video,..it contains all kinds of useful information and good 'chit-chat', thank you TFL-T.
I haven’t watched the video yet, but yes, yes you do need the big V8....because ‘merica 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Joseph Whiskey Beale i have a Inline 6 that says you dont need a V8 at all
Yep.
Brandon Mick I have an inline 6 that says “Yes, of course you need the big V8...whaddaya a commie?”
We have a 2012 Yukon Denali with the 6.2. Back then they were rated for 402 hp and we chose to pay a little more for the Denali specifically for that motor and the full time AWD because we tow a lot and deal with slippery boat launches. If you have ever seen someone try to pull a boat out of the water with anything 2wd you get what I am saying. The 6.2 is an awesome motor. It never feels under powered and 120k so far with zero issues.
I daily a 19 Silver 1500, 4.3 V6, 6 speed, 4X4, reg cab long box.
I love the truck and it can take any snow or well WELL below 0F cold that Minnesota can throw at it.
That auto mode they have now is so great, I've honestly not even had to touch diff locking 4X4 other then when I'm playing in heavy duty off roading.
Squirrel Bobber lower trims are honestly way better, old classic tech is what real truck owners love, these 8 speed autos are for city slickers just like those new rams and twin turbocharged f150’s
On my 2016 LTZ 2500 I could send directions to the truck, which was huge helpful when my wife couldn't find a place. We still talk about how cool that was.
YES!!!!!!!!! I have owned all 3 gm engines.. don’t ever buy less than a 6.2!
My Company just received their 2020 Crew Cab Standard Bed High Country 1500 4x4 with Max Tow package, Towing mirrors, and the 6.2L V8/10-Speed Trans. I beautiful looking truck in the Iridescent Pearl Tricoat Exterior Color. The MSRP was $67,265 and they got theirs for $65,101.
2,010 Lbs Max Payload
12,000 Lbs Max Conventional Towing
I don't even have to watch this u always need more power. I've never heard anyone say man that's just to much power. That's 6.2 badge looks cheesy. Looks like autozone emblems.
Steven Densmore power at the cost of fuel economy
I like the 6.2 badge because it's from the factory, not some add on from ebay. Power badges are from days gone, and used to adorn all powerful engines from the factory. They don't put it on the 5.3 because that engine is nothing but a base V8. Put a 5.3 badge on, now that is cheesy.
@@mjbakedbeans if u need fuel economy buy a midsize. And I know those are factory still looks like autozone specials
@@mjbakedbeans having owned a couple of each, my 6.2 powered trucks and SUVs, always managed fuel economy that was very close to my 5.3's. So close that I couldn't even be positive if the 5.3 even gave an actual advantage.
@@ShyaMiss agreed . I have a 5.3 my friend has 6.2 and he does identical when we tow.
I have a 2011 silverado with a tuned 6.2 and 3.73's from the factory, and it's a beast...
You guys do such a good job reviewing vehicles! The best out there by far.
I have a 2015 Yukon SLT 5.3 4x4 and I raced my buddy that has a 2015 GMC Yukon Denali 2WD. Upgrades to the 5.3 is a full exhaust with hi-flow cats and the 6.2 has a cold air intake. We lined up and the 6.2 straight walked the 5.3 but not as bad as I thought.
Had to turn it off when he thought the lights were the 4wd. Roman doesn’t have a clue. Just let Andre do it. That was cringe
0:55 Roman gets so impatient when he detects the topic is drifting, lol. I've seen him jump on it in at least a few past videos.
lol came off a bit aggressive!
I don’t blame him. Probably freezing his ass off
Just part of the script
@@thawk1435 It's really not.
As he should! Get to the point
I thought the mirror was going to come off in Andre's hand !
huge mirror on smaller tuck looks weird
Very great video guys...you guys got a lot of snow...thanks Roman n Andre...I still like the TFL Trailboss.
I'll take the Trail Boss with the 5.3 + 10 speed 👍💪❤
i got a 2020 custom 4,3 v6 and i love it and i have no complain about the interior
The warrior crease same here love it, just that empty space on the steering wheel really bothers me
Miss my old Chevy, stuck in a soccer mom Jeep at the moment, maybe someday I’ll get the lifted 6.2
As a Ford Fanboy the 5.3 is the only engine i can defend & respect. When i worked as a Lube tech those 5.3s would come in with 300k + miles and would still drive brand new
Which 5.3, the ECOTEC 5.3 was all new in 2014.
@@benjaminwayneb I'm speaking on the old vortech 5.3s. We didnt get many new 5.3s 2014+. & if we did at that time it was less than 10k miles because it was still new
Wow it looks like they just stuck that 6.2 badge on the hood blindfolded
The Fast lane Truck - If you purchased the TrailBoss. OnStar should have been activated by the dealership the day that you took delivery of the vehicle. You should contact the dealership to determine the length of the free activation. My OnStar subscription was activated for 3 years by the dealership.
i would definitely go with the trailboss, 5.3 is nice and 6.2 if fine but really only adds less than 200 lbs of payload. my 5.7 has 10500 towing and 1660 payload. really the only thing its missing i wish my truck had is 4x4.
Hello, quick question. I have a 2019 Silverado Z71 RST. The speedometer goes up to 200 mph. Is that correct??? Every video I have watched on the same truck, has a speedometer at 140 mph. I am confused!!! Please clarify!!!
finally been waiting for this. should also do a 3.0 duramax comparison
So it would be apples to oranges to tomatoes instead of just apples to oranges? What have you been "waiting for"? Two clowns to "test drive" two very different trucks for you because you clearly can't do any real research and test-driving for yourself even though you're "truck shopping"?
Yes, clown, that is what he's asking...doofus!
I absolutely love my Silverado,, I've owned many in the last 50 years this one is the best one yet!!!
I would love to see 6.2 vs 5.3 Towing Max Capacity up Ike gauntlet! Awesome video once again! 😎👍
It's clear who does his homework.(thank you Andre) And Roman less wining please.Still love the channel for the real world honest reviews.Just got a 2020 Silverado high country 3.0 diesel and love it.Averaging 25 MPG and that's mountain driving here in Estes Park Colorado and down to boulder.Thanks to the turbo the truck climbs with no effort even at 8000 ft. and that's really why I have always owned diesels. Swapped out the 22 inch wheels for some 20's with snow tires and the truck has handled the snow with no issues.And yes the 4WD auto mode is a great thing to have when roads go between dry and snow covered.Have owned many 4WD trucks without a auto mode and always having to shift in and out constantly gets old especially when the wife is driving.
The LT is so nice. Such a good looking truck! I love the interior. Functional & simple. The Rams is nice, but too busy.
Owned new Silverados from 2012 . Drove a 19 ram last year and traded both GMs .
GM have cut corners and tried to save money and it shows
The cab is ghastly! Plastic crap all over . The 2" lift makes it tippy and rolly. Not a good truck.
@@gwood701 that's not true. The Trail boss corners very flat.
I own one.
@@gwood701 I'll agree except for not a good truck. Mechanically there isn't one bad truck out there .
A friend of mine bought a new Ram and after about 6 months, he traded it in for a Chevy. He had a lot of problems with the Ram. He also said that big 12in screen, stunk. The camera & Nav didn’t use the entire screen. Why have that big of a screen then?
I have the 2019 Trail Boss. The traction control is way too sensitive. Can't have too much off road fun (Trail Boss?) in the truck with that BS. When you turn ESC off, it comes back on at 35 MPH. I wish I would have waited for the 6.2L as there is a huge difference is power. The 5.3L might be reliable as everyone on here is stating, but its still lacks excitement. The truck is solid and great overall, just pointing out some of the downsides. Keep up the great content TFL!
The 5.3 has a 2" lift with Duratracs, I'm not a physics expert but that might be a disadvantage.
Not to mention GM vehicles "learn" drivers habits and will "run harder" over time the "harder you drive them".
Taller tires also effectively raise the differential gear ratio giving the engine less mechanical advantage over larger, heavier wheels and tires. Even a speedometer calibration doesn't "correct" the powertrain controller's "expectation" that after a given time at WOT with a given powertrain in a given vehicle the vehicle should by traveling "X" speed unless the vehicle is "loaded".
And since "smart" electronic powertrain controllers are "pro-active" instead of "re-active" and avoid "overloading" the engine to the point of "spark knock" instead of going to a "full power" fuel and timing "tune" until the "knock sensors" sense detonation and then "detune" the engine back to "base" low "performance" (including low "fuel economy") so-called "tuning", the "big tires" can have even more detrimental effect. Then there's the "brains" realizing bigger, heavier trucks and tires take more time and distance to stop AND are not intended for "high performance" on the STREET and in fact reduce "traction" by spreading slightly more weight over much more surface area reducing "unit pressure" and the tires' and vehicle's "grip" on the "road".
A "couple inches" may not seem like a big deal but when you get pi involved a "small" increase in diameter produces a disproportionate increase in circumference over the "base" tire diameter.
I could get into the cold and damp weather conditions; the fact that the truck as a whole is never "warmed up" to anywhere near full "operating temp" of the engine, trans, transfer case, axles, wheel bearings etc; the unmentioned fuel "grade" and octane; the "altitude" the "testing" is conducted at and the overall complete and total lack of anything remotely resembling "scientific testing" beginning with an "apples to oranges" comparison of the two "test vehicles" themselves.
But ultimately since the real purpose of this "test" it to imply/suggest that there are no new "Chevy" gas-burners in the 2020 "Silverado" truck "lineup" and that the "big boy" engine therein/thereof is still the 6.2 "LS" and only Ford has a new gasoline "pushrod V8" and a "big-block" called "Godzilla" no less because for some reason no "independent" and/or "unbiased" so-called "truck reviewer" seems remotely aware of or interested in the new heavy-duty non-"LS" GM 6.6-liter "gas burner" engine option for 2500 and 3500 "Chevys" OR the also brand-new V6 Duramax diesel engine for "Chevy" 1500s (they never mention GMC) and that ONLY FORD HAS ANYTHING "NEW" IN ITS "F-SERIES LINEUP",
there's no point in "educating" the "truck enthusiasts" on just how worthless this "test" and the "experts" conducting it are for any but "entertainment" purposes.
@@deeremeyer1749 little heavy on the use of quotation marks pal
Idk why everyone is hating on the 5.3 I think it’s great and easy to mod. I went a little cheaper and got the 2019 custom trail boss 5.3 with the 6 speed and I love it.
Jonathan Floyd Long Tube Headers , High Flow Cats , CAI and a Tune has me at the same HP level as a 6.2
ZL1Speed43 question I’ve been told if you get more air coming in and out you will get better mpg true?
Jonathan Floyd so far I am seeing about a 2 mpg change in fuel mileage for the better
ZL1Speed43 Nice with all
Of the mods how much did it COst you?
Jonathan Floyd $3k
A $350 programmer for the 5.3 really wakes it up...have one in mine along with magnaflow exhaust and cold air intake huge difference
Hey what programmer do you have? I took my trailboss to a performance shop and they said they couldn’t even tune it cuz had to ship computer outa country.
@@bustos257 i have a Diablo tuner
@@donknicker8110 thanks!
It is actually a marginal difference on the 5.3. Tune, and exhaust, intake, you are maybe talking like 35hp gain,and 25-30lbs of torque. It will make a difference, is it worth idk. If you want more power , buy the 6.2 period.
I have a 2016 LTZ with the 5.3 and a 2019 LTZ with the 6.2. The 2019 is replacing the 2016 because I now tow and the 5.3 just didn't cut it. Plus, the 5.3 is mated to a 6 speed vs the 6.2 being mated to the 10 speed. The 2019 also has the Max Trailering package and is just much better suited to towing. The 2016 will be repositioned to our Arizona winter home, where it will only have to tow a small 13 foot trailer, which it is fully capable of doing.
Trail Boss equals an FX4 with Off Road Tires, Chevy’s half hearted attempt to compete with Ford & Dodge. It’s clear, Power Wagon & Raptor are at the top
Yeah its half assed, but the Custom Trailboss with 6.2 and 10 speed starts at $41,000. Leaves a lot of money for front and rear lockers, 4.10's and upgraded shocks.
Chevy dude had the nerve to call the Trail Boss a Raptor fighter 😂😂😂
Chevy never marketed the Trail Boss as anything other than a Rebel fighter, what are you even talking about?
Search Chevy dude if you dont know who he is, not my fault u don’t know how to use TH-cam
Who wants a useless Raptor with a gae V6 that cant tow 5,000lbs?
Ya, you may be able to rip across the beach faster that one time per year that you go, but is that worth living with a sports car truck that cant do truck things? Raptor is a great choice for guys that dont need trucks, but A SxS.
I have a 21 LT Trail Boss w/ the 6.2l, 10 speed, and GM performance package and love it! I just had 2000 lbs of deer corn in the bed while towing a 6 person side by side. It did great!
Isint 1600 max cargo limit?
From experience I'd buy the 6.2 gasser over the 5.3. I've driven the 5.3 and was sadly disappointed in the power. I ended up with a happy medium 5.6liter Nissan Titan peppy and fun to drive. But if I'd bought the Gm, the 6.2 is the only way to go
Love my 5.3 2022. Plenty for work and boat. These engines are hard to beat for durability
I like you two dudes. Your reviews are most times painless. I cant say that about motorweek or car and driver
Throttlehouse is great too
Guys who aren't really truck guys reviewing trucks. Just a little FYI, the reason they still offer a double cab is it still a real truck. It's got a longer 7 foot bed and 3/4 ton payload. It's got tons of power for towing. And it's got towing mirrors. Is it a spacious as the crew cab, no. Does it do the job as a truck better? Maybe. I don't think it is necessarily less truck than a crew cab that goes off road which as we all know people rarely do in their truck anyways.
I’d go with the 6.2, only 1mpg difference for all that extra power. No brainer
1 mpg less is the manufacturer number, best case scenario which never happens, it’s more like 3-4mpg difference.
Derron Gee yeah but premium fuel only... yeah I would stick with the 5.3 and just do a few bolt mods and cam swap.
Depends on how you drive too
Until you get gaped by a 5.3
I’ve had 5 5.3s (ls 5.3s) I’ve now had a lt 6.2 for a little over a year. Now I’m comparing a ls and lt based motor, but after getting the 6.2 I swore I’d never buy another 5.3. I get better mpg out of my 6.2 then I got with any of the 5.3s. I admit that I don’t drive them very easy (2500-3500 rpms at every stop). Dad recently bought a 2020 with the lt 5.3 it has really surprised me in comparison to the ls based motor, his is an rst mines a Denali so his has 20in rims mines up graded to 22s but both basically have street tires. Fuel mileage he’s actually a little lower than my 6.2 (he drives basically the same as me) but his truck also isn’t broken in yet! I think the big difference will be the way the 2 tow, my 6.2 tow’s the same trailer better than the ls 5.3, but this summer we’ll find out how his pulls the trailer.
Just bought a RST but not a double cab, 6.2 10 speed automatic. It’s the freaking bomb 💣. Love it
My 2018 6.2l 8 spd has spoiled me compared to my Step Dad's 2018 5.3l 6spd when towing a trailer. There's no comparison!
I'm sure the 2020 6.2l 10 spd is even better!
Ya i have a 19 with the 6.2 and 10speed and it is ridiculous.
Have a 15' Silverado with 50K on it and it's been in the shop 9 times for major mechanical issues. Like A Rock.
I actually do like the interior. Yes it could be better though.
Mine’s comfortable. Good for me. 🤷🏻♂️
TFL for sea level 0-60 check put Cr and Driver. They list the following
6 2L 5.4 sec
5.3L 6.1 sec
2.7T 7.0 sec
I really appreciate Roman's take on the interior , I feel the same. Yes the RAM in some trims is nicer. But the LT trail boss is nice, functional and good quality. There is some soft touch materials too.
That's not accurate , I own a 2.7 . I can 100% tell you it is much quicker , and produces significantly more low end torque then the 5.3. I have seen the dyno numbers to prove stock, and tuned. The 6.2 is a little quicker stock. Tuned the 2.7 would beat the 6.2 as well. I personally don't buy a truck for racing , hope this helps.
@@calebniederhofer6529 we've got a 2.7 on our lot. It's quick., but the 5.3 is def faster. Plenty of other sources that have tested them too. They feel fasr because of the torque surge. But they lack top end.
@@terrencejones9817 I am talking about the EB 2.7 lol. I probably should have clarified that in the comment . You are correct on GM 2.7 . It is actually not far off though from the 5.3 in 0-60 like a 1 sec difference , but yes the 5.3 pulls away on top end for sure . However at a high elevation , the 2.7 could actually outperform the 5.3 NA motor .
@@calebniederhofer6529 yeah the Ford 2.7 is a rocket , for a truck in the correct trim.
@@terrencejones9817 I should have realized you were referring to GM 2.7 my bad on that. I still think GM made a huge mistake with the 2.7 . I just think american truck buyers don't want a turbo 4 banger , in a half ton . I personally think this was a perfect motor for the colorado, and a chance for GM to take over the market in smaller trucks .
dealer failed to help u set up your onstar. they suppose to enable it
On the contrary, my 2018 1500 patrol pickup as the foldable tow mirrors. Pros: lots of viewing area and obviously nice for towing. Cons: I had to disconnect the LED blinkers on the mirror side because of the insane brightness at night. Also I have to fold the driver side in and hug that side of the garage so close it causes a slight amount of pucker factor. Thanks again for another great comparison video!