Fresh off last year's complete overhaul, the Silverado 2500HD boasts the industrial strength you sometimes need to get the job done. Even so, it's a civilized beast with enough available features to do a luxury car proud.
What's New for 2016
Most configurations receive a new digital power steering unit for sharper handling. The MyLink infotainment system gets additional features, including greater smartphone integration. A remote locking tailgate is now available.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Silverado 2500
As before, the 2500HD 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. The Regular Cab gets an 8-foot bed only, while the Double and Crew can also get 6.5-foot bed. Rear bumpers feature corner steps for easier access to the bed.
6.5-foot Bed | 8-foot Bed | |
Regular Cab | N/A | Standard |
Double Cab | Standard | Optional |
Crew Cab | Standard | Optional |
The standard 6-liter V8 produces 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. You can order a bi-fuel version of the same that runs on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG). When running on CNG, the engine puts out 301 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque. Both versions are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
For maximum grunt, Chevy offers a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 with 397 horsepower and a pavement-rippling 765 pound-feet of torque. The turbodiesel gets a heavy-duty six-speed automatic and exhaust braking.
All 2500HDs start out with rear-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive is available across the board. To assist with towing, all models come with trailer sway control, automatic grade braking and integrated cruise control that automatically adjust to load weight. Properly equipped, the 2500HD can tow up to 17,900 pounds and haul 3,760 pounds.
The 2500HD is available in four trim levels: the basic WT, popularly equipped LT, luxurious LTZ, and exclusive high Country.
The LT and above are eligible for Driver Alert Package with lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and a vibrating safety alert seat. All model can be equipped with LED cargo box lighting.
The WT isn't nearly as austere as it used to be, so it can make a perfectly acceptable personal vehicle with a few options added. Even so, the more scalable LT remains the best overall value for mixed use.