Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD III (K2XX) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec L96 |
| Engine displacement | 5965 cm3, 364.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm, 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 16.1 l, 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2690 kg, 5930.43 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4536 kg, 10000.17 lbs. |
| Max load | 1846 kg, 4069.73 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2162 l, 76.35 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6577 kg, 14499.8 lbs. |
| Length | 5699 mm, 224.37 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm, 80.12 in. |
| Height | 1976 mm, 77.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3393 mm, 133.58 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 231 mm, 9.09 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14 m, 45.93 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/70 R18; 265/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
The K2XX platform Silverado 2500HD, introduced for the 2015 model year, represented a significant redesign for Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck line. The 6.0-liter V8 with the Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was a popular choice, offering a balance of power and affordability. This variant typically came standard as a work truck or in lower-to-mid-range trims like the LT, appealing to buyers who prioritized capability over luxury. It served as a robust alternative to the diesel-powered Duramax engine, offering a lower initial cost and potentially simpler maintenance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 2500HD is the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s small-block V8 family, known for its durability and relatively straightforward design. The L96 features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, utilizing a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, coupled with variable valve timing (VVT), helps optimize performance and efficiency across a range of engine speeds. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a GM-built unit, was specifically designed to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine. It features electronically controlled shifting and a robust construction to withstand the demands of heavy towing and hauling. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to provide a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a focus on maximizing pulling power in lower gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission combination delivered a capable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. While not as quick as the diesel variants, the L96 provided ample torque for everyday driving and towing. Acceleration was adequate, but the truck’s substantial weight was always noticeable. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly, although it could sometimes feel hesitant when downshifting for passing maneuvers. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The gear ratios were optimized for towing, meaning that highway cruising RPMs were slightly higher than in some other configurations. The truck felt planted and stable, even when carrying heavy loads, thanks to its robust suspension and chassis.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 6.0-liter V8/automatic combination was typically found in the base work truck (WT) and mid-range LT trims. The WT trim was fairly spartan, focusing on functionality with features like vinyl upholstery, basic audio systems, and manual climate control. The LT trim added more comfort and convenience features, such as cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, and an upgraded infotainment system. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a navigation system, and various appearance packages. Leather interiors and premium audio systems were generally reserved for higher trim levels paired with the diesel engine.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500HD featured a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes, reflecting the distribution of weight. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, providing a solid and predictable feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Silverado 2500HD’s overall capability and robust construction. The 6.0-liter V8 was seen as a viable alternative to the diesel engine for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in towing capacity. Fuel economy was a common criticism, as the V8 engine consumed significantly more fuel than the diesel option. However, the lower initial cost and potentially simpler maintenance of the V8 engine appealed to many buyers. Compared to the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel, the 6.0-liter V8 offered less torque and lower towing capacity, but it was also significantly cheaper to purchase and maintain. The 6.0L also offered a quieter and smoother driving experience than the often-clattery diesel.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with many examples still in service today. While not immune to issues like oil consumption and occasional misfires, the engine is generally considered durable and relatively easy to repair. The Hydra-Matic transmission is also known for its robustness, although regular maintenance is crucial for long-term reliability. In the used car market, Silverado 2500HD models equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission offer a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. They remain popular choices for work trucks, farm vehicles, and recreational towing.
