If you need a truck for towing, Chevy makes one of the best. The Silverado HD is built to work hard.
The 2500HD comes in three cab configurations and three motors, gas, and diesel options included. I have always been a fan of diesel engines for towing. They deliver much power with fewer fuel needs than gasoline-burning V8. I recently had the chance to drive the 2500HD with the Duramax 6.6 liter V8 that produces 910 ft/pounds of torque. That is the torque of a medium-duty truck or 56% of the power of a class 8 truck that can carry 80,000 pounds. The towing capacity of the Chevy is 18,500 pounds with a ball hitch or gooseneck /5th wheel hook up. The 3500HD model, thanks to the dually rear axle, can pull 30,000 lbs when correctly set up. The transmission on the 6.6L diesel motor is an Allison auto with ten speeds. This transmission is known for its durability. The truck is available as a 2 wd or 4x4 with plenty of options from basic to ultra lux.
Driving this Silverado I felt a bit intimidated by the size and height of the hood. I am told that the customers want that powerful look, but sometimes that could backfire. As I waited for the green light at a traffic signal, a man in a wheelchair rolled in front of me. When he was in front of the truck, I could not see him. Or anything that was at least six feet or less in front of me. The optional front cameras are almost necessary to see ahead in crowded parking spaces.
On the other hand, the interior has finally matched other truck makers in luxury and tech display. It is almost hard to believe that this is a working truck since it has all the luxury car amenities plus the built-in towing assistance system. The truck can back up itself to the trailer while you watch on the central screen. And it does it much better than a person would. There is an optional package that allows you to see what it's behind the trailer and inside of it. All these things are of immense help when pulling a trailer. If you are used to tow, you wish you had them.
The Silverado I drove was a 4x4, and I took it Wrightwood and nearby trails to see how such a big truck would perform. I was impressed by how easy it just rolled over the terrain without really caring about the deep ruts, ice, rocks, or rain. But is not a trail vehicle. It is a working truck after all, and that 4x4 capability is welcome if you have a farm or need to deal with bad weather and dirt roads.
The size and the power are there to remind you that this is a "big-better" item. The suspension is tough too, but too rough for everyday driving if you are not planning to put this truck to work. That I found to be the most significant compromise with this powerful truck. It lets you know of the freeway that it is ready to be loaded with sacks of hey, bricks, wood, or anything heavy.
The tech is up to date, and it includes eight outside cameras that provide fifteen different views of your surroundings. It is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible. Wi-fi, apps, satellite radio, individual climate controls, heated seats, the list of items is long. Depending on the trim level, which mainly differs on the interior and tech, the Silverado 2500HD price starts at around $40,000 and can get to $70,000. If you need a towing truck, you learn to live with the compromise. With this Chevy those compromises are very few.
