The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2011 to 2014, represented a significant evolution in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup. This variant, configured with an Extended Cab, Standard Box, and a 6.0-liter V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission, occupied a crucial middle ground within the 2500 HD series. It aimed to balance capability with a degree of everyday usability, appealing to owners needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the sheer size of the crew cab models. This generation, designated GMT900, built upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering improved refinement and technology while retaining the rugged durability expected of a Chevrolet work truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Extended Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.3 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 | 5967 cm3, 364.13 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 | 15.5 l, 16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2734 kg, 6027.44 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4309 kg, 9499.72 lbs. |
| Max load | 1575 kg, 3472.28 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1718 l, 60.67 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg, 13000.66 lbs. |
| Length | 5857 mm, 230.59 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm, 80 in. |
| Height | 1979 mm, 77.91 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3663 mm, 144.21 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm, 8.58 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.6 m, 47.9 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 2500 HD variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a staple of Chevrolet’s truck lineup for many years, is a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design. It utilizes a 9.6:1 compression ratio and multi-port fuel injection to deliver a respectable 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. The Vortec L96 also incorporates variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration are typical for heavy-duty trucks. The transmission paired with the L96 in this configuration is the Hydra-Matic 6L80E, a six-speed automatic. This transmission offered smoother shifts and improved fuel economy compared to older four-speed automatics. The 6L80E features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive, contributing to both towing capability and highway cruising comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Silverado 2500 HD provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the available diesel options, particularly in terms of responsiveness. While the diesel engines excelled in outright torque for heavy towing, the gasoline V8 offered quicker acceleration and a more familiar driving experience for those accustomed to gasoline engines. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were well-suited to both hauling loads and maintaining comfortable speeds on the highway. However, it wasn’t as fuel-efficient as the diesel counterparts, and the V8 required premium fuel for optimal performance. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, this variant traded towing capacity for a lower initial purchase price and a more conventional engine feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2011-2014 Silverado 2500 HD with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was typically offered in Work Truck (WT), LT, and LTZ trim levels. The WT trim was the base model, focusing on functionality and affordability, with standard features including air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The LT trim added features like cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, and a more advanced audio system. The LTZ trim represented the premium offering, with leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rear vision camera, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500 HD II utilized a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension featured an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring configuration. This setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system was appropriately sized for the truck’s weight and towing capacity, providing confident stopping power even under heavy loads. The rear axle ratios varied depending on the specific configuration and towing package selected.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 2500 HD with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price compared to diesel models. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, particularly compared to the more fuel-efficient diesel options. In terms of reliability, the Vortec L96 engine proved to be a durable and dependable powerplant, although regular maintenance was crucial. Compared to the Ford Super Duty and Ram 2500, the Silverado 2500 HD offered a competitive combination of capability, comfort, and value.
Legacy
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. The Vortec L96 engine is known for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While not as fuel-efficient as newer trucks, it offers a reliable and capable option for those needing a heavy-duty work truck. These trucks are often sought after by owners who prioritize affordability and simplicity over the latest technology. With proper maintenance, these Silverado 2500 HDs can provide many years of reliable service.
