The 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 arrives with 4 engines, but choosing between them isn't as simple as moving up in displacement until the numbers get bigger. The upgraded TurboMax™ carries the highest published base payload figure, the new 5.7L V8 leads the lineup in maximum trailering capacity, the 6.6L V8 produces the most gas-engine power, and the Duramax® remains the diesel alternative. For Amarillo, TX, truck buyers, understanding those differences is more important than picking the engine with the largest number on its badge.
TurboMax™ Gains Power and a 10-Speed
The upgraded 2.7L TurboMax™ now produces 350 hp and 455 lbs. ft. of torque, gains of 40 hp and 25 lbs. ft. of torque compared with the 2026 engine. Just as significant is the transmission change: the previous 8-speed gives way to a 10-speed automatic. The engine uses direct injections, variable valve timing, variable valve lift, and Active Fuel Management®. Properly configured, TurboMax™ can tow up to 9,400 lbs., while a Regular Cab 2WD configuration carries a published base payload figure as high as 2,340 lbs. That combination makes the smallest engine particularly interesting for buyers more concerned with carrying weight in the truck than chasing the highest tow rating.
The New 5.7L V8 Carries the Biggest Tow Rating
Chevrolet's new sixth-generation 5.7L V8 develops 402 hp at 5,500 rpm and 428 lbs. ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm. It uses an aluminum block with cast-iron liners and combines direct and port fuel injection. A 10-speed automatic and 3.23 axle ratio complete the powertrain. More important for towing buyers, this engine currently carries the Silverado's highest published trailering figure. A properly equipped Double Cab 2WD with the Max Trailering Package can tow up to 13,700 lbs., while the corresponding 4WD configuration reaches 13,600 lbs. Published base payload reaches 2,170 lbs. in the appropriate configuration.
The 6.6L V8 Is the Gas Performance Leader
The larger new sixth-generation 6.6L V8 produces 481 hp at 5,800 rpm and 501 lbs. ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Chevrolet describes it as the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in its class. Like the 5.7L, it combines direct and port injection with variable valve timing and a 10-speed automatic. Current specifications place the 6.6L in Crew Cab 4WD configurations, including ZR2, which helps explain why its maximum published trailering figure of 9,700 lbs. sits below the 5.7L's maximum despite having considerably more power. Its published base payload figure reaches 1,510 lbs. in the applicable configuration.
Duramax® Keeps Diesel Torque in the Lineup
The available 3.0L Duramax® Turbo-Diesel continues with 305 hp and 495 lbs. ft. of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and 3.23 axle ratio. Chevrolet currently lists the diesel with Crew Cab configurations for 2027. Properly equipped with 4WD and the Max Trailering Package, maximum trailering capacity reaches 12,000 lbs. Published base payload reaches 1,870 lbs. in the appropriate configuration. Its 495 lbs. ft. of torque also places it remarkably close to the new 6.6L V8's 501 lbs. ft., despite the substantial difference in displacement.
Configuration Is Just as Important as Engine Choice
The maximum numbers belong to specific trucks, not every Silverado fitted with a particular engine. Cab style, 2WD or 4WD, bed configuration, axle ratio, trailering equipment, passengers, and cargo can all alter towing and payload capability. Engine availability also varies among WT, Custom, Custom Trail Boss, Silverado, Trail Boss, High Country, and ZR2. Buyers planning around a specific trailer should therefore compare the rating for the exact configuration they intend to purchase instead of relying on the engine's maximum figure alone.
Compare 2027 Silverado Powertrains at AutoNation Chevrolet Amarillo
Amarillo, TX, drivers can visit our Chevy dealership to compare Silverado configurations, explore Chevrolet truck inventory, discuss towing requirements, value a trade-in, review financing options, and schedule a test drive when the next-generation 2027 Silverado 1500 arrives.
