2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD Review

The Silverado is a full-sized pickup truck that debuted in 1962. The first major update appeared 1999. The 3500HD features a 6.0-L, 353-hp V8 engine, capable of towing 16,500 pounds, and hauling over 5,000 pounds. The Silverado was chosen as the "North American Truck of the Year" in 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD offers tremendous power without sacrificing comfort. It's surprisingly agile and incredibly comfortable. The Silverado is the pickup truck to beat.

What's New For 2008:

XM Radio is now standard. A power driver seat is now available on regular cab models. Two new colors are available: Dark Cherry Metallic and Deep Ruby Metallic.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$35,485

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
6

Gas Mileage:
NA/NA

Engine:
6.0L V8

Horsepower:
360@5400RPM

Torque:
380@4200RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/4WD-PT

Fuel Capacity:
34

Fuel Type:
diesel

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/100000

Rust Warranty:
72/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Silverado HD 3 stars for dependability. Problems with the last generation included wheel slippage, transmissions popping out of gear, and vehicle shake. It was recalled 15 times. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. 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
+ Powerful
+ Smooth ride
+ Clean diesel

Cons
- Limited safety features
- Typically mediocre domestic pickup reliability
- No real innovation

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Dodge Ram 3500 includes air conditioning, but costs a couple of thousand more and can't tow as much. The Ford F-350 SD lacks a CD player and an automatic transmission. The GMC Sierra 3500HD costs a few hundred more, but is mechanically identical.

What Others Are Saying:

"Whether purchasing for commercial construction, agriculture or recreational towing, if your needs are truly "heavy-duty" you'll likely find those needs met with the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado HD, which offers all of the virtues, with few of the vices, normally associated with a "heavy-duty" truck." - Kelley Blue Book

"The Silverado has a reputation to uphold and the 2007 model is doing an excellent job in protecting the line. One has only to slide behind the wheel and hit the ignition key to find the true story of this beautiful automobile." - The Columbus Times

"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." - AOL

Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 - Email to a friend

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