2019 Chevrolet SILVERADO 2500HD

Chevrolet’s truck division is abuzz about its all-new Silverado 1500, a pickup that brings a number of innovations to the light-duty truck segment. But that’s not what we’re here to talk about; this buyer’s guide entry is dedicated to one of the brand’s heavy duty models, the Silverado 2500HD.

For 2019, it is largely carried over from last year while Chevy gears up for an all-new 2500. So, as before, the standard engine is a 6.0L V8 that makes 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, which can be optioned to a 6.6L turbodiesel good for 445 hp and 910 lb-ft. Both come with a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.

Competition in the heavy duty class is just as fierce as for the more popular light duty models, and the Silverado 2500 faces formidable foes in Ford’s Super Duty models and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Ram 2500.

Right now, Ford is ahead in the power wars, with its optional Powerstroke diesel boasting 935 lb-ft of torque, but watch for the next-gen Silverado 2500 to challenge that when it arrives for 2020 or 2021.

Among available cab and bed configurations are a regular cab with long box (eight feet), double cab with standard (6.5 feet) or long box, and crew cab with standard or long box. 2WD and 4WD are available, depending on trim.

You can spec a Silverado 2500 anywhere from a super-utilitarian trim with vinyl floor in the WT to the High Country with its ventilated and heated front seats, wireless device charging, and a premium Bose stereo system. Available soft-touch dashboard materials, comfortable seats, and extra-thick sound insulation make the Silverado a surprisingly refined vehicle on the move. There are USB ports, Bluetooth, OnStar with 4G LTE, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep the Silverado 2500's occupants connected.

Boosting the 2500’s utility are options like a factory-installed fifth-wheel hitch, fully-integrated aftermarket exterior cameras for towing assistance and a digital steering assistant for improved control when driving. Towing and payload capacities max out at 8,210 kg and 1,603 kg, respectively.

The Silverado 2500HD is available with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, and a safety alert seat, which are bundled together in the Driver Alert Package. The Silverado HD does not yet feature radar cruise control or emergency autonomous braking.

You won’t find fuel consumption ratings because Natural Resources Canada doesn’t require them for heavy duty trucks, which are considered commercial vehicles.