Fully overhauled for the 2015 model year, the Silverado 3500HD boasts the brand of raw power and strength that you sometimes need to get the demanding jobs accomplished. Even so, it's quite a civilized beast, with enough available features to approach some luxury automobiles. If the 3500HD’s level of muscularity isn’t quite necessary, you can choose a mid-duty 2500HD. GMC’s Sierra HD models are similar.
What's New for 2017
Chevrolet boosted output from the available Duramax 6.6-liter, turbodiesel V8 to 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque, helped by a new air intake system that delivers cooler air to the engine for maximum performance. Trucks with the diesel engine get a functional hood scoop.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
As before, the 3500HD comes with a three-person Regular Cab, a Double Cab with a full-length backseat and narrow rear doors (now hinged in the front), or a Crew Cab with full-size rear doors and extra rear legroom. Dual rear wheels are available across the board. The Regular and Double Cabs come with an eight-foot bed, while the Crew gets a 6.5-foot bed with the eight-footer available as an option on single-rear-wheel models. Rear bumpers feature corner steps for easier access to the bed.
The standard 6-liter V8 produces 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, mating with a six-speed automatic transmission. You can order a bi-fuel version of this engine that runs on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG). For maximum hauling brawn, Chevrolet offers a 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8, newly increased to 445 horsepower and a pavement-assaulting 910 pound-feet of torque. The turbodiesel gets a heavy-duty six-speed automatic and exhaust braking.
All 3500HDs come with standard rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is available across the board. Chevy also offers a dual rear wheel option.
To assist with towing, all models come with a heavy-duty trailering package, an automatic locking rear differential, trailer sway control, automatic grade braking, and integrated cruise control that automatically adjusts to load weight. Properly equipped, the 3500HD can tow up to 23,200 pounds (!) and haul 7,153 pounds in the bed. levels: the basic WT, popularly equipped LT, luxurious LTZ, and exclusive high Country.
The 3500HD is available in four trim levels: basic WT, popularly equipped LT, more luxurious LTZ, and exclusive High Country.
LT and LTZ trim levels are available with an optional Driver Alert Package, which includes lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and front/rear parking sensors. LED cargo box lighting is available across the range.
The WT isn't nearly as austere as it used to be, so it can make a perfectly acceptable personal vehicle – especially with a couple of options added. Even so, the more flexible LT remains the best overall value for mixed use. Like all full-size pickups, the HD3500 has a dizzying list of variants and options.