2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Review
The Silverado, and its clone the Sierra, are full-size pickup trucks that have been around since 1962. The most recent model debuted in 2007 the first major update since 1999. The 2500HD is a heavy-duty variant which features a 6.0-L, 355-hp V8 engine, capable of towing nearly 16,000 pounds, and hauling nearly 4,000 pounds. The Silverado was chosen as the "North American Truck of the Year" in 2007.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is at the top of its class. Its capable towing and hauling abilities are complemented by a surprisingly refined ride. For anyone needing this much power, the 2500HD shouldn't be overlooked.
What's New For 2008:
$24,460
no
3
NA/NA
6.0L V8
353@5400RPM
373@4400RPM
6 Speed Automatic
FR/RWD
34
diesel
36/36000
60/100000
72/100000
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Silverado 3.5 stars for overall quality. Problems with the last generation included wheel slippage, transmissions popping out of gear and vehicle shake. It was recalled 15 times. No recalls have been for the newest generation. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Safety ratings for the 2500 are unavailable. The Silverado 1500 received 5 stars in government crash tests. Anti-lock brakes are standard. Parking assistance and adjustable pedals are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Strong, powerful engines
+ Refined ride
+ Much improved interior
Cons
- Limited safety features
- Middling reliability
- Not all that unique
Head-To-Head Competition:
The GMC Sierra 2500HD costs a few hundred more and tacks on a standard long bed, but is virtually identical. The Ford F-250 SD costs several thousand less but has 50 less hp. The Dodge Ram 2500 includes 4WD for a few hundred more.
What Others Are Saying:
"The Silverado HD is an ideal choice for those who want big pickup workability with less of the cumbersome feeling occasionally associated with large trucks. It can be dressed down for work or dressed up for those who spend a lot of time in it. For the first time, the diesel is at least as environmentally friendly as the gasoline engine. It is ready, willing and able to work." - The New York Times
"GM's Heavy Duty pickups (Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD) resemble their half-ton kin, but everything underneath is beefed up to haul more payload and tow up to 13,000 pounds. A Silverado 1500 won our last pickup comparo, and the HD version is more rugged but just as refined, so it too is at the top of its class." - Car and Driver
"The bed is the business end of any good truck. In this the Silverado doesn't disappoint. Too bad it doesn't impress. Cumbersome tailgates went out of style after Ford boldly took the torsion bar where it's never been before. Toyota's Tacoma introduced an all-weather power port for stereos, electric tools and neon Budweiser signage (for the perfect tailgate party). Even if the aftermarket fills in the blanks, Chevy still failed to usher their core-competency to the head of its class." - The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.
Published on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 - Email to a friend
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