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- Highs Awesome diesel powertrain option, class-leading handling, loads of available comfort and tech features.
- Lows Poor ride over rough surfaces, lags behind rivals in towing capability, most desirable features are optional.
- Verdict The Silverado HD pickups are ready for work or play, with lots of available features and plenty of brute strength, especially with the optional Duramax diesel.
Overview
Like professional bodybuilders, the Silverado HD combines brute strength and a muscle-beach physique, leaving no question as to its purpose. The Silverado HD can be equipped with a choice of powerful engines, including the mighty Duramax diesel, which is the quickest and most fuel-efficient diesel in the class. The heavy Chevy doesn’t have the highest towing capacity, and it isn’t the most technologically advanced HD pickup, but its performance and workhorse pedigree plant it firmly near the top of this iron-pumping segment.
What's New for 2017?
The Duramax diesel is thoroughly revised for 2017, with refined manners and a 19-percent increase in torque. A new hood-scoop induction system is standard on all models. GM’s Teen Driver feature, which enables parental monitoring of Junior’s driving behavior, is now standard. The new Alaskan Edition includes the Snowplow Prep package, upgraded wheels and tires, trailer-towing mirrors, distinctive graphics, and more. There are also new exterior colors, wheel options, and interior trims.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- WT: $34,905
- LT: $39,470
- LTZ: $47,240
- High Country: $56,160
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Silverado HD is available with the revised 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine, now with a class-leading 445 horsepower and a remarkable 910 lb-ft of torque. It comes mated to an updated Allison six-speed automatic transmission, and together they’ll blast past every diesel-powered rival. The standard powertrain is a 6.0-liter V-8 with 360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque that pairs with a six-speed automatic. This combo is more than adequate for those who don’t need the diesel’s earth-shattering torque and added cost. The Silverado HD is the quickest, most agile heavy-duty pickup this side of anywhere. The Duramax diesel and the Allison transmission are the powertrain tag-team champions, dominating all challengers at the track. No one will write home about the Silverado HD’s ride quality, but compared with the competition, it’s one of the best. It’s compliant enough on smooth surfaces so that long road trips won’t instigate arthritis. However, pothole-stricken pavement and railroad crossings will rattle your grandparents’ dentures. At least the Silverado HDs can claim to be the best-handling in their class.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Silverado HD's interior is a handsome habitat for a makeshift office or for hauling people. Optional leather appointments enhance the Chevy’s appeal compared with the standard plain-Jane cloth seats. Chrome accents and brushed-aluminum trim break up an otherwise monochromatic color scheme. Large toggle switches located below the well-designed climate controls are pragmatic and well placed. The front seats’ wide cushions are comfortable for passengers of all sizes, but they lack lateral support, as do the rear seats in the double and crew cabs. The mission, should you choose to accept it, is finding space in the Silverado HD’s cabins or cargo beds where you can’t store your stuff. The Silverado HD has 6.6-foot and 8-foot beds; the regular cab is only available with the longer box.
Infotainment and Connectivity
A responsive and intuitive infotainment system, connectivity outlets galore, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more controls than an Xbox will satisfy Silverado HD owners. Chevy’s MyLink infotainment is available with either a 7.0-inch or an 8.0-inch touchscreen; both have a wide assortment of controls, including redundant hard buttons. The unit is an interactive treat with an attractive design, despite a cartoonish navigation display. The Silverado HD can be outfitted with up to four USB ports and four 12-volt outlets, the most in its class. Shell out extra coin to add a 110-volt outlet to the dash, a wireless charging pad, Bose audio, or a cool, customizable 8.0-inch gauge-cluster display.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 3500HD’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
