Buyers have to wait yet again for the diesel.
GM Authority reports that General Motors has delayed the launch of its 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine into the 2020 model year. The engine was originally meant to launch in late 2019 for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, but that no longer seems to be the case.
In a memo sent to U.S. dealers, GM called this a “slight delay” in the engine’s arrival window. Unfortunately, even if that is the case, that may mean major headaches for anxiously waiting customers and dealers.
Since GM has reportedly delayed the engine until 2020, dealers who ordered their trucks will have to withdraw and re-submit their orders for the 2020 model year. However, those who did manage to place an order — the order books have not officially opened up yet — will be offered a 2020 model as a substitute.
Still awaiting further details
Even at this point, we don’t know every aspect of the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine. It does produce 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and comes mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Buyers who spec the diesel option will pay $2,495 over the 5.3-liter V8.
The Duramax will be available on LT, RST, LTZ and High Country trims of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. On the GMC Sierra 1500, the Duramax will be available on Elevation, SLE, SLT, AT4 and Denali trims.
Check out more breaking news on the 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 below.
Update 5/22/2019: Corrected 3.0-liter Duramax torque typo. The engine produces 460 lb-ft of torque, according to official GM figures.
