If you're looking for a diesel pickup truck in the United States without spending a fortune, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is currently the most affordable option on the market.

Furthermore, it is the only light pickup truck with a diesel engine still available in the country, as all other manufacturers have abandoned this configuration in half-ton models.

The diesel pickup segment has shrunk in recent years, but GM continues to offer the Silverado 1500 with the Duramax 3.0 in-line six-cylinder engine.

And the big surprise? The most affordable version of this model costs just a little more than the average price of a new light car in the United States.

While larger diesel pickup trucks like the Silverado 2500HD or Ford F-250, easily exceed US$55,000 in its basic versions, the Silverado 1500 LT with double cab and 4×2 equipped with the Duramax 3.0 engine starts at US$51,145 (including shipping of US$1,999).

This price places it as the cheapest diesel pickup on the American market, in addition to offering a more efficient option for those who don't need a heavy truck.

The Duramax 3.0 engine is one of the biggest differentiators of this model. It is an in-line six-cylinder designed to deliver smoothness and efficiency, without compromising performance.

In its most recent version, it generates 305 hp and 64 kgfm of torque, guaranteeing enough strength to tow up to 6 tons when equipped with the appropriate package.

Furthermore, its consumption can reach 12 km/l on the highway in rear-wheel drive models, figures higher than any other engine available in the Silverado 1500.

What really makes the Silverado 1500 stand out in the market is that its main competitors have abandoned diesel versions in light pickup trucks.

The Ford F-150 Power Stroke is discontinued in 2021, while the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel leaves the scene in 2023. This makes the Silverado the only option for anyone who wants a diesel engine in a new half-ton pickup in the US.

In addition to the efficient engine, the Silverado 1500 LT has a good list of equipment, including a 13.4-inch multimedia center, 12.3-inch digital dashboard, electrically adjustable front seats and a series of safety assistants.

All this while maintaining a competitive price when compared to larger diesel models, which are more expensive and aimed at those who need superior load and towing capacities.

If you want a diesel-powered pickup truck at the lowest price possible and don't need an oversized model, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax 3.0 is currently the only choice in the North American market.