Key Specifications — 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S
Seating Capacity
5 passengers
Body Style
Truck
Base Price
$39,394–$46,096
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 7.3/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.9/10. It's a capable but unexceptional truck — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 6.9/10 for reliability, this truck trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 7.9/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.7/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. Technology scores 6.9/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $39,394–$46,096, 18 MPG, seating 5, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. At 7.3/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S sits in the middle of the field. Until its reliability and technology scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S ranks #298 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 42% of the segment. Its 7.3/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $39,394 starting price is about 12% above the segment's median of $35,138.
5-Year Cost Snapshot — 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S
Fuel (75,000 miles)
~$14,585 ($2,917/year at $3.50/gal)
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Silverado 1500 S Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S scores 7.3/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.3 — and starts roughly $4,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 18 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S reliable?
We rate the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S's reliability 6.9/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S worth buying?
It scores 7.3/10 overall, ranking #298 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 42% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S cost?
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S starts at $39,394 and ranges up to $46,096 across trims (MSRP when new). At 18 MPG, expect roughly $2,917/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Silverado 1500 S years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Silverado 1500 S years we've rated are 2016 (7.0/10), 2015 (7.1/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.6/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Chevrolet Silverado 1500 S
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