There are still options, but they are not as numerous.
There is no other segment that offers more options in terms of engine options than full-size pickup trucks. This is true for Detroit automakers. However, General Motors may be reducing the options for 2022-model year half-ton models of Chevrolet or GMC.
The 4.3-liter V6 engine and the 5.3-liter version of the V8 seem to be the most affected. Pickup Truck + UTV Talk heard the news during a virtual presentation that took place last week as part of 2021 Work Truck Show. In some cases, the turbocharged 2.7-liter four cylinder will be the base engine. The optional 6.2-liter V8 can be used in certain applications. The 5.3-liter version of the L82 with Active Fuel Management is discontinued, while the L84 edition with Dynamic Fuel Management continues.
The boosted 2.7-liter engine is a significant upgrade to the V6’s 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque. The naturally-aspired, 4.3-liter engine produced 285 horsepower and 305 lbft of torque. The 355 horsepower, 383 lbft torque and 5.3-liter V8 continue to produce 355 hp. The range-topping 6.2 liter V8 produces 420 hp. Although the turbocharged Duramax diesel 3.0-liter engine is part of the Silverado or Sierra lineups, it’s not offered in lower-spec models or work trucks.
Chevrolet currently offers the 4.3-liter AFM V6 and 5.3 liter AFM V8 engines in WT, Custom and Custom Trail Boss trims. The Custom Trail Boss only has the 6.2-liter V8. The base Sierra trim does not include the V6 or 5.3 AFM engines. The V6 trim would suggest that the base price for the new models will rise accordingly. However, this information is not available at the moment.
It is a little strange to find out about fundamental engine changes at a major automaker via an obscure tradeshow. This is especially true when the most-sold vehicle segment in America is at stake. Motor1.com reached out to General Motors to confirm these changes but no reply was received before this article was published. We will update you if we have any new information.