The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD IV (T1XX) Crew Cab Standard Bed, equipped with the 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 401 horsepower and paired with a 4WD automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2020 through 2023, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 2500HD lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology aimed at buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity without the expense of the highest trim levels. It falls within the fourth generation (T1XX) of the Silverado HD series, known for its increased strength and refinement over its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD IV (T1XX) Crew Cab Standard Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 V8 (401 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 401 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 629 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 463.93 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L8T |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm / 4.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm / 3.86 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l / 8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.1 l / 15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3095 kg / 6823.31 lbs |
| Max. weight | 4750 kg / 10471.96 lbs |
| Max load | 1655 kg / 3648.65 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1968 l / 69.5 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 | 6349 mm / 249.96 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2079 mm / 81.85 in. |
| Height | 2027 mm / 79.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4037 mm / 158.94 in. |
| Front track | 1731 mm / 68.15 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1736 mm / 68.35 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 257 mm / 10.12 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17; 245/75 R17; 275/70 R18; 275/65 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Introduction
The 2020-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Crew Cab with the 6.6L V8 and 4WD automatic transmission is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for demanding tasks. Built on the T1XX platform, this generation Silverado HD prioritized increased strength, improved technology, and enhanced comfort compared to previous models. The Crew Cab configuration offers spacious seating for five passengers, while the standard bed provides a practical cargo area. This particular variant served as a popular choice for owners needing substantial towing and payload capacity for work or recreational purposes, without opting for the more expensive and luxurious trim levels like the High Country.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 2500HD lies the Chevrolet L8T 6.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a descendant of the Duramax diesel’s architecture, but utilizes gasoline direct injection (GDI) for improved efficiency and power delivery. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, with a 10.8:1 compression ratio. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, coupled with variable valve timing (VVT), optimizes performance across the engine’s operating range. The engine produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 629 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm.
The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, specifically tuned for heavy-duty applications. This transmission is known for its durability and ability to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed. The transfer case utilizes an electronically controlled clutch to engage the front axle, providing seamless transitions between drive modes.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 2500HD 6.6L V8 Automatic delivers a robust driving experience, prioritizing capability over outright speed. While not as quick as lighter-duty trucks, the ample torque allows for confident acceleration, even when heavily loaded. The six-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts, although it may occasionally hunt for the right gear when climbing steep hills. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, providing strong pulling power in lower gears. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 2500HD models, the gasoline V8 offers a more responsive feel and a quieter cabin experience, but sacrifices fuel economy and ultimate towing capacity. The ride quality, while improved over previous generations, remains firm due to the heavy-duty suspension components.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 2500HD IV (T1XX) Crew Cab Standard Bed 6.6 V8 4WD Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The interior upholstery was typically cloth, with vinyl or leather options available as upgrades. Common optional extras included a navigation system, upgraded audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. This trim level often served as a base for customers who then added specific packages tailored to their needs, such as the Z71 off-road package or the work truck package.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500HD features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s heavy-duty capabilities. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration provides a balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with the front discs measuring 355×40 mm and the rear discs measuring 360×34 mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 2500HD 6.6L V8 Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its strong towing capacity, comfortable interior, and user-friendly technology. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was relatively poor compared to diesel-powered alternatives. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel variant, the gasoline V8 offered a lower price point but significantly less torque and towing capacity. Against competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram 2500, the Silverado 2500HD held its own, offering a competitive combination of features, performance, and value.
Legacy
The L8T 6.6L V8 engine and the six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While some owners have reported minor issues with the fuel injectors or the transmission control module, these are generally not widespread problems. On the used car market, the 2020-2023 Silverado 2500HD 6.6L V8 4WD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. Its robust construction and proven powertrain ensure that it will continue to provide years of reliable service.
