Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD IV (T1XX) Crew Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax V8 (445 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 358.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 445 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1234 Nm @ 1600 rpm (910.15 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax L5P |
| Engine displacement | 6604 cm3 (403 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 29.1 l (30.75 US qt | 25.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3446 kg (7597.13 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4990 kg (11001.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1544 kg (3403.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2364 l (83.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 8392 kg (18501.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 6759 mm (266.1 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2079 mm (81.85 in.) |
| Height | 2023 mm (79.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 4369 mm (172.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1731 mm (68.15 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1736 mm (68.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 256 mm (10.08 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission Allison |
| 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; 265/70 R18; 265/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
The 2020-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Crew Cab Long Bed, equipped with the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine and Allison automatic transmission, represents a significant achievement in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Built on the T1XX platform, this generation aimed to surpass its predecessor with increased capability, a more refined interior, and advanced technology. This specific variant was positioned as a premium offering, balancing robust performance with a comfortable driving experience. It catered to owners who frequently tow large trailers – boats, RVs, or construction equipment – and require a powerful and reliable workhorse.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of this Silverado 2500 HD is the Duramax L5P 6.6-liter V8 diesel engine. This engine features a turbocharged, overhead valve (OHV) design, utilizing a common-rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The L5P incorporates a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its renowned durability. The turbocharger, working in conjunction with an intercooler, increases air density for improved combustion and power output. The engine generates 445 horsepower at 2800 rpm and a substantial 910 lb-ft (1234 Nm) of torque at 1600 rpm. This impressive torque figure is critical for demanding towing and hauling tasks. The Allison 10-speed automatic transmission is specifically calibrated to manage the engine’s output, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. This transmission replaced the previous 6-speed Allison unit, offering closer gear ratios for enhanced acceleration and towing performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 2500 HD 6.6L Duramax/Allison combination delivers a driving experience centered around capability and control. While not designed for sporty handling, the abundant torque allows for confident acceleration, even when heavily loaded. The 10-speed automatic transmission intelligently keeps the engine within its optimal power band, minimizing gear hunting and maximizing efficiency. Compared to gasoline-powered Silverado 2500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more low-end torque, making it exceptionally well-suited for towing. Compared to earlier Duramax engines, the L5P benefits from the additional gears of the Allison 10-speed, resulting in improved fuel economy and reduced engine strain during highway cruising. The ride quality, while firm due to the heavy-duty suspension, is reasonably comfortable for a truck of this size.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Bed configuration provides a spacious interior, comfortably accommodating five passengers. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as LTZ and High Country, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a power sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages tailored to specific needs.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500 HD features a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration is optimized for heavy-duty applications. Braking is provided by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, delivering ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 355×40 mm, while the rear brakes are 360×34 mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard equipment. Steering is accomplished via a hydraulic power steering system with a cone worm and recirculation balls mechanism.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 2500 HD 6.6L Duramax/Allison combination received largely positive reviews from automotive critics. It was lauded for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and impressive towing capacity. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a heavy-duty diesel truck. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 2500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offered superior towing performance and fuel efficiency, albeit at a higher initial cost. In comparison to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 2500 HD was often viewed as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and technology.
Legacy
The Duramax L5P engine and Allison 10-speed transmission have proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain combination. While diesel engines inherently require more maintenance than gasoline engines, the L5P has generally demonstrated good long-term reliability. On the used car market, these Silverado 2500 HD models maintain their value well, particularly those with documented and consistent maintenance records. The combination of power, capability, and refinement continues to make this variant a desirable choice for buyers seeking a heavy-duty truck capable of handling demanding tasks.
