The Silverado 2500 HD (for "heavy duty") and its near twin GMC Sierra 2500 are true rough and tumble workhorses, but with enough creature comforts and modern amenities, they serve as versatile mobile workplaces. High points include a diesel powertrain that's cultured and brawny, and an intuitive infotainment system. However, for day-to-day comfort, we'd avoid the super-stiff Z71 suspension.
The Duramax engine and Allison transmission employed make for an impressive team, allowing the truck to benefit from a swell of smooth flow of power and making towing a breeze. Towing capacity is 18,100 pounds. That powertrain helps the big rig sprint to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. We measured 14 mpg overall -- 2 mpg less than what we measured in our last tested Silverado 1500 with the gasoline engine.
Hauling and snowplowing are natural activities for the Silverado HD, but to keep everything running, you need to periodically top off the required Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). However, we're dismayed that the DEF filler is inconveniently located in the engine bay rather than by the fuel filler neck. It's also hard to find the engine block heater receptacle.
This and all trucks are available in myriad cab configurations, bed lengths and engine choices. We'd go for the LTZ trim if you plan on logging long hours. The leather seats that come with it are large and comfortable, the controls are intuitive and the infotainment system is comprehensive. Many tasks can be performed through steering wheel buttons and viewed in the center cluster. The cabin is relatively quiet except for some diesel clatter.
Getting in and out of the tall vehicle entails climbing up or dropping out. The rear seat is very roomy but the cushion is too short to provide optimal thigh support.
Unfortunately, ride comfort with the popular Z71 package is atrocious. If you care for the wellbeing of your bladder and vertebrae, make sure you get the Z85 suspension and 18-inch wheels. It makes a world of difference, producing a truck that's much more civilized.
No one expects handling agility in an HD truck and the Silverado is no exception -- it's just as reluctant and clumsy as you'd imagine. The big beast is ultimately secure, however, when pushed to its limits. Another endemic weakness of HD trucks are long stopping distances, and the Silverado HD is not a great performer there.
The Silverado HD can be had with advanced safety features such as forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. However, automatic emergency braking is not available.