2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD OVERVIEW

The Silverado 2500HD is available in WT (Work Truck), LT and LTZ trims in extended cab, crew cab and regular cab (except LTZ). The standard engine is a 6.0-liter V8 with 360 horsepower and a six-speed automatic. Versions are available with a 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8 for added torque. Rear wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive is optional – part-time on WT and full-time on other models. Regular cabs have an 8-foot bed, and other models have either a 6-and-a-half foot bed or an 8-foot long bed.

The WT comes standard with a vinyl floor covering, heavy-duty transmission oil cooler, 17-inch wheels, front split bench seat, tilt steering wheel, electronic stability control and air conditioning. The LT adds power windows, locks with remote keyless entry, power mirrors, privacy glass, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and SiriusXM satellite radio. The LTZ is the plush model and is loaded with things like power leather seats, front console, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The Ford F-350 was redesigned more recently and has a powerful diesel engine and offers car-like features, but isn't quite as capable. The similar GMC Sierra shares all of the positive attributes of the Silverado with slightly more aggressive styling, but typically costs a little more than the equivalent Silverado. The Ram 3500 has a plush interior and strong diesel engine but also can be pricey and not as capable. The Toyota Tundra doesn't offer a heavy-duty version, but the 5.6-liter V8 is supremely powerful and strong.

It may be in a small class, but the Silverado 2500HD holds up because of its usefulness and wide variety of trim and equipment options. It boasts strong powertrain and transmission options that are essential to people who buy a big truck to haul or tow things. And the uplevel LTZ trim is reasonably luxurious. For those reasons, the Silverado deserves a hard look.