2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Review discusses a hard-moving pickup truck.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Review

The Silverado and its twin, the GMC Sierra, trace their lineage all the way back to the '60s, and are two of America's favorite trucks. The first incarnation of this truck debuted for the 1999 model year, and was offered in either a regular cab or three door extended cab, with three choices of engine: The Vortec 4300 V6 (200 hp, regular cab only), Vortec 4800 V8 (255 hp), or the Vortec 5300 V8 (270 hp). For the 2000 model year, a four door option was added, and the 4800 and 5300 were boosted significantly (270 and 285 hp, respectively). A 300 hp Vortec 6000 V8 was introduced in 2001. In 2003, both the Silverado and the Sierra received mild styling upgrades. The 2500HD is a heavy-duty variant of the Silverado/Sierra that tow up to 13,000 lbs. Both are all new for 2007, and the new Silverado has been voted North American Truck of the Year.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is tough to beat if you're in need of its power. A better overall value than the comparable F-350, its powerful towing and hauling capacity make it fit even the toughest jobs. With a surprisingly sophisticated ride and comfortable interior, it's a good all-around vehicle and a good value.

What's New For 2007:

The 2007 Silverado is all-new. The 2500HD features a 6.0-L, 353-hp V8 engine. Also available is a 6.6-L, 365-hp diesel. More comforts and storage capacity have been added for this year.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power data is not yet available. The prior generation had issues with wheel slip, vehicle shake, and popping transmissions. It was recalled fourteen times, which actually isn't bad for an American pickup truck. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The 2500HD hasn't been rated, but the 1500 earned perfect government frontal crash ratings. No other data is available. Anti-lock brakes and tire-pressure monitoring come standard. A safety package adds parking assist and adjustable pedals.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ High payload capacity
+ Monstrous towing capability
+ Surprisingly smooth ride

Cons
- Lacks in safety features
- Unproven reliability
- Low gas mileage

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Silverado costs $900 less than the Ford F-350 Super Duty, has a larger standard engine and air conditioning. It costs $1,400 less than the Nissan Titan and while it lacks a CD player, it has nearly four times the amount of payload capacity. The Toyota Tundra, at the same price, offers many more safety and comfort features, including side airbags, traction control, and a CD player. However, it has a smaller engine with 60 less hp and much less payload capacity.

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

"At any trim level, the Silverado HD has plenty of room, comfort and equipment. Comfortable ride and easy drive." - The Auto Channel

"Cab's only downside is an off-center steering column. Fuel consumption can be sky-high with the gas engines." - Automobile

Read more about the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, August 31, 2007 - Email to a friend

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