Chevy has definitely seen better years but their U.S. sales are still strong. With 2,036,023 units delivered throughout 2018, Chevrolet still holds over 10 percent of market share – 11.75 to be more precise. That’s a slight drop compared to 2017 when the GM volume brand had marketed 2,065,879 vehicles and gathered 12-percent market share. 2019 projections are roughly leaving Chevy in the same place with more meaningful movement forward expected to take place in 2020 and 2021. This time we’ll focus on the 2021 Chevrolet lineup.
Chevrolet’s global performance is also down by 0.8 percent compared to 2017, with just under 4.1 million units sold in 2018. This makes it the seventh largest automotive brand in the world which is a position they’ve kept in spite of poorer performance than anticipated.
Main driving force behind Chevy’s sales (aside from the home market) was, naturally, the Chinese market where the bow tie brand has managed to market a little over 673,000 vehicles.
Broken down to models, Chevy’s sales champion is yet again the Silverado line of pickup trucks of which 585,581 units have been sold in the U.S. In other words, it accounts to one quarter of Chevy’s total U.S. sales, and takes the second spot among the best-selling models behind the Ford F Series rival and just in front of the Ram pickup truck lineup that’s slowly but steadily gaining on it.
Chevrolet’s second best-selling model in the U.S. is the Equinox crossover with 332,618 deliveries throughout 2018, with Trax, Malibu, and Cruze following by with north of 140,000 deliveries each. However, the compact Cruze is gone for MY 2020 hence Chevy will need to find a way to counter what’s apparently a significant loss in sales. Their compact crossovers should provide just enough momentum to offset this newfound disbalance, but that still might not be enough to exhibit a growth throughout 2020. Instead, 2021 should end up being the year for meaningful growth in sales. Especially considering how the Chevy range is in for expansion for MY 2021.
Without further ado, here’s what to pay attention to when it comes to Chevy in 2021.
2021 Tahoe and Suburban
The all-new Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have at last been presented prior to model year 2021 debut. The next-gen models are considerably improved compared to their predecessors but still borrow a lot from their platform donor, the Silverado pickup. One thing they don’t share any more, however – a live rear axle with leaf springs. Instead, both the slightly smaller Tahoe and gargantuan Suburban now boast an independent rear multilink suspension with coil springs. This improves their ride quality and, at the same time, provides more room at the back by lowering the large SUV’s floor.
From design’s standpoint, both the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban retain their hulking boxy frames, but sport a new frontal fascia design in-tune to that of the latest-gen Silverado. The Chevy Tahoe has been stretched by 4.9 inches in wheelbase, while the Chevy Suburban gets 4.1 inches of extra wheelbase length. At the same time, the smaller of the two gains around 5 inches more in overall length than the larger SUV and is now only 15 inches shorter. Needless to say, this translates into cargo space growth as the Tahoe now boasts 26 cubic feet of space behind the third row (almost double of what it had before) and 34.9 inches of third-row legroom (a 10-inch increase). Meanwhile, the Suburban gains comparably much more modest 2 and 2.2 inches respectively.
Speaking of their interiors, this is where they differ slightly from the Silverado truck. Most controls are unique to the SUVs which also get a large 10-inch touchscreen display and a myriad of advanced safety features to accompany it. Among others, the body-on-frame duo gets standard automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, rear park assist, automatic headlights, and forward collision alerts. Blind zone alerts and lane departure warnings are optional. The lineup for both models now consists of LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and range-topping High Country models with the entry-level starting from either $50,000 for the Tahoe or $53,000 for the Suburban. The upscale High Country, on the other hand, warrants either $74,000 or $77,000 respectively.
Powertrain lineup has been slightly revised as well, compared to the outgoing models. A standard 5.3L V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque carries over unchanged, while the standard for High Country models 6.L V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft now boasts a cylinder deactivation bundled together with start/stop system for improved fuel economy. There’s also a newly optional 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six which cranks up 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of twist while simultaneously providing up to 30 mpg combined if properly equipped. It’s available across the entire Suburban and Tahoe range apart from the off-road oriented Z71 models. All engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and come in either standard rear or optional all-wheel drive configuration. Of course, the Z71 trim comes with mandatory all-wheel drive alongside offering off-road tires, skid plates, and better approach angles.
The newly redesigned 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban are now much more enticing to new buyers but it we can’t shake the feeling the GM is always the one to follow in other automaker’s footsteps. After all, the Lincoln Navigator has received a similar makeover two model years before the Gm body-on-frame duo. Both SUVs go on sale during mid-2020 as 2021 models and are set for a few care-free years.
2021 Corvette Stingray
The recently-introduced mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette Stingray hasn’t stopped attracting attention since the moment it was first unveiled. Heck, some would say that it’s been piquing automotive enthusiasts’ interests for decades until it finally became a reality for MY 2020. The C8 Corvette is especially interesting due to its sub-$60,000 price tag which, sadly, won’t last for long. A well placed source told Motor Trend that the $59,995 sticker (including destination charge) will be gone after MY 2020. How much will the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray cost is still unclear, but expect an increase of up to few thousands – just like it was the case with the previous generation models.
Although it largely retains the hallmark American supercar styling of the last generation, the new Chevy Corvette Stingray is an altogether different beast. And we’re not only talking about the fact it’s got its engine moved behind the driver. The structural differences are undeniably visible as the new layout demands a different approach to aerodynamics and cooling. Furthermore, Stingray’s seating position has been shifted forward by 16.5 inches compared to the C7.
Interior is arguably the best thus far in Corvette’s storied history. Well-appointed; especially in higher grade, the cockpit is stylishly executed and comfortable. A host of high-tech features such as programmable digital display behind the new squared-off steering wheel or a driver-tilted 8-inch touchscreen display fit nicely in what’s an all-around highly advanced affair. Although the entry-level models are somewhat spartan (especially compared to higher grades), the next-gen ‘Vette will still offer just about enough in order to feel adequately equipped.
A $5,000 performance Z51 package will likely become one of the most popular options as it offers a dual-mode performance exhaust, adjusted suspension with electronic limited-slip differential, and all-season tires among other things. Together with the $1,895 FE4 magnetorheological dampers, it rounds off the most potent C8 Corvette at launch.
Speaking of performance, the next-gen Corvette Stingray draws power from a 490-horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque 6.2L supercharged V8 mill dubbed the LT4. The mentioned Z51 package adds another 5 ponies and 5 lb-ft to the final output. Only an 8-speed automatic transmission is available and it’s first such trans for the Corvette. Properly equipped, the C8 Stingray is capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds.
The archetype American sports car is only at the beginning of its new life cycle and things will only improve from here on out. Expect a dedicated performance version sometime in 2021 or 2022, and even a hybrid model further down the line. For now, however, we’re just glad that the first mid-engined Corvette in history already looks to be more capable than the C7 Z06, for instance.
2021 Trailblazer
Although the Trailblazer name isn’t a stranger to the GM lineup, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is all-new after being absent for more than a decade. Last time around, the old Trailblazer was replaced by the Traverse. The new model is considerably smaller than the first-gen Trailblazer and slots couple of spots below from where the old unit would be today. Still, it’s not the smallest of available Chevy crossovers as that honor belongs to the subcompact Trax.
The new Chevrolet Trailblazer looks much like a scaled-down Chevrolet Blazer that also marks its return to the Chevy lineup, but was available a full year before it. Chevrolet offers no less than five different trim levels with prices starting from just under $20,000 (including the destination charge) for the entry-level LT model. The range-topping Activ and RS trims sport a different look and go for $26,395. The former mimics an off-road theme, and sports a larger grille, Hankook Sport Terrain tires, and unique 17-inch wheels, while the latter emulates a sporty theme with corresponding appearance tweaks.
Inside, the Trailblazer offers more room than the smaller Trax despite the fact it’s more affordable than the subcompact. Forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking have been made standard across the board (great value for a sub-$20,000 crossover), while features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring are available at extra cost.
Power comes from either a 1.2L turbocharged 3-cylinder with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque or a slightly larger 1.3L turbocharged unit with a corresponding amount of cylinders that’s good for 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft. The former can be configured exclusively in front-wheel drive form and pairs with a CVT gearbox, while the latter offers an optional all-wheel drive and a mandatory 9-speed automatic transmission.
The all-new Chevrolet Trailblazer arrives to dealerships in Spring of 2020 as a 2021 model and aims to offset the aforementioned loss of sales due to discontinuation of the Cruze and Impala sedans, and Volt EV.
2021 Colorado
Singlehandedly responsible for turning the stale mid-size pickup truck market into a competitive segment once more after making a comeback a few years back, the Colorado hasn’t been properly updated since. The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado rectifies that issue by adopting a fresh face and adding some new colors, but the main differences can be found across the off-road oriented ZR2 trim which now further deviates from the rest of conventional models.
Design changes include a revised frontal fascia and new color solutions for the bow tie logo on the grill, depending on a chosen trim level. At the back, all models now get a large Chevrolet lettering on the tailgate, with the ZR2 getting a similar treatment up front as well alongside red tow hooks. A new Sand Dune metallic paint scheme makes its debut on the range-topping Z71 and off-road ZR2 trims.
Interior carries over largely intact. Even the feature list hasn’t been expanded and Chevrolet still hasn’t disclosed any pricing details. The current models start from north of $21,000 prior to destination charges and work their way towards the $44,000 mark which is the price of ZR2 models in a crew cab and short bed configuration.
Powertrain lineup consists of a sturdy gasoline 3.6L V6 with 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, and a capable 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel 4-cylinder which cranks up 181 hp and 369 pound-feet of rotational force. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all trim levels apart from the off-road ZR2 can be configured in rear-wheel drive. Of course, all-wheel drive is available as an option across the range (standard in ZR2).
The 2021 Chevy Colorado doesn’t feature any groundbreaking improvements but is still a welcome step in the right direction. With competition becoming more and more fierce with each passing day, we’ve, maybe naively, expected more. The facelifted model arrives to dealerships sometime in 2020.
2021 Silverado
The best-selling Chevrolet vehicle finally sports a complete and fully revised lineup now that the heavy duty line has finally been restyled for MY 2020. For 2021, Chevy intends to leave things as they are and only meaningful change for next year will be the upcoming 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Carhartt special edition presented at the 2019 SEMA show. The famous workwear-themed take on the heavy duty Silverado starts out as the LTZ crew cab model with Z71 off-road package included, and can only be ordered with the Carhartt detailing on a Mosaic Black Metallic paint job.
Other than the mentioned special edition, remainder of both the half-ton and heavy duty three-quarter ton and one-tone trucks carries over mostly unchanged. The Silverado 1500 received its last major updated for My 2019, while the Silverado 2500 and Silverado 3500 head into MY 2020 with similar changes.
All Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks can be ordered in both the spartan entry-level trims with very little in ways of advanced electronic features or fully loaded with gear. There are three cab configurations: regular cab, double cab, and crew cab; and three bed lengths: short, standard, and long. Most trims can be ordered with any of the mentioned choices, giving the prospective Silverado owners plenty of room to navigate. The base Silverado 1500 starts from under $30,000, while the most expensive 3500 HD units require at least around $65,000 before extras.
Silverado’s powertrain lineup is also deep and varied. The half-ton pickups themselves offer four distinctive choices, while the heavy-duty lineup adds another two. The Silverado 1500 can be ordered with either a 355-hp 5.3L V8 or a 420-hp 6.2L V8 as far as eight-cylinder configurations are concerned. There are also a 310-hp 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder and a torque-rich 277-hp 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six. The Silverado 2500 and 3500 HD get larger 6.6L V8 with 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque, or an optional 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V8 which cranks up 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of twist. The latter can tow up to 35,500 pounds of trailer making it a class leader for the time being.
The Chevrolet Silverado might be losing its favor among traditional pickup truck buyers or Ram might be gaining it as the latter has narrowed the sales gap which is now only around 50,000 units. Regardless, the Silverado still enjoys a larger following and new revisions to the lineup are here to ensure this remains the case going forward.
2021 Bolt
Now the linchpin of Chevrolet’s electric revolution (after Volt’s discontinuation), the Bolt EV is undergoing a mid-cycle makeover in 2021. The 2021 Chevy Bolt thus builds upon the 2020 models which already provide improved range that’s second in class behind the long range Tesla Model 3.
Design-wise, the restyled Bolt gets a reworked frontal fascia and some corresponding tweaks around the back. This includes everything from headlamps and tail-lights to grille and bumpers. There’s a new two-tiered lighting setup which has recently become a commonplace in a number of Chevy models.
Interior is also in for a substantial makeover which, apart from a number of design tweaks, also gets a new seating arrangement. A larger infotainment display with all the necessary driver’s aids is also part of the setup. Speaking of which, most advanced systems are only available at extra cost, including a forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, a lane-departure warning and a lane-keeping assist, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Bolt’s powertrain gets a boosted range which now amounts to 259 miles instead of 238 miles. This was achieved by using a larger battery pack which now boasts 66 kWh capacity instead of 60 kWh. Other than that, the Bolt EV sports a 200-horsepower permanent magnet electric motor/generator which is more than plentiful for a vehicle of its size. Battery recharge times vary depending on charging outlet’s capacity. A level 3 station will fully recharge the Bolt in under an hour and a half, but a 240-volt outlet requires around nine hours to do the same.
The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt is a better car than its predecessors in many ways and a valid choice in what’s slowly but steadily becoming a highly competitive niche. It’ll get even better in time, but already easily beats most of its numerous rivals in key segments.
