2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 range updated with bigger payload

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has received a range of updates for the 2026 model year in New Zealand, headlined by a higher payload rating thanks to revised certification and new black exterior trim.

The changes apply to both the Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium and off-road-focused ZR2, with local right-hand-drive production switching from NA to NB1 certification from August 1, 2026.

That sees gross vehicle mass (GVM) increase from 3300kg to 3505kg, allowing Chevrolet to significantly boost payload.

The Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium now offers a maximum payload of 942kg, up to 20kg more than before, while the Silverado 1500 ZR2 can now carry 922kg.

The update is aimed at owners who regularly tow heavy loads, travel long distances, or use their full-size pickup for work.

Power continues to come from Chevrolet's naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 petrol engine, producing 313kW of power and 624Nm of torque. It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The LTZ Premium also continues with features including advanced towing technology, a Bose premium sound system, power sunroof, and a high-spec interior.

For 2026, the LTZ Premium also receives a tougher appearance thanks to a new factory-fitted black styling package installed during the local right-hand-drive remanufacturing process. This includes black Chevrolet tailgate lettering, a black front bowtie badge, black Z71 fender badges, and a black lettering kit.

The Silverado 1500 ZR2 also benefits from black Chevrolet tailgate lettering as standard.

Chevrolet has also made a minor mechanical change to the LTZ Premium, replacing the previous Z71 off-road suspension with Rancho shock branding with an off-road suspension package featuring twin-tube dampers.

The ZR2 continues unchanged mechanically, retaining its lifted suspension, Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear electronic locking differentials, off-road front bumper, and 33-inch mud-terrain tyres.

"Silverado has earned its place with customers by combining serious V8 performance, towing confidence, premium comfort and genuine off-road capability, and the MY26i update strengthens that formula again," said GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala.

The updated range also brings a modest price rise, with both variants increasing by $1000.

2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pricing