The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD III (K2XX) Regular Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel drive automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup from 2015 to 2019. This configuration represented a balance between capability and affordability within the broader Silverado 2500HD range, targeting buyers who needed serious towing and hauling capacity but didn’t require the premium features or higher output of other available trims. It was positioned as a workhorse, appealing to contractors, farmers, and individuals with demanding tasks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD III (K2XX) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 130.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec L96 |
| Engine displacement | 5965 cm3, 364.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm, 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 16.1 l, 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2751 kg, 6064.92 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4309 kg, 9499.72 lbs. |
| Max load | 1558 kg, 3434.8 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2162 l, 76.35 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6577 kg, 14499.8 lbs. |
| Length | 5699 mm, 224.37 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm, 80.12 in. |
| Height | 1975 mm, 77.76 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3393 mm, 133.58 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 231 mm, 9.09 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14 m, 45.93 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/70 R18; 265/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 2500HD variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of Chevrolet’s well-regarded Vortec family, is a cast-iron block, aluminum-head design known for its durability and relatively simple architecture. It utilizes a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for consistent combustion. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm.
The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission was chosen for its robustness and ability to handle the high torque output of the L96 engine. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, providing adequate acceleration and maintaining reasonable engine speeds at highway speeds. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission combination delivers a solid, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for a heavy-duty truck, but it’s not designed for quick sprints. The focus is on providing ample low-end torque for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel hesitant when downshifting for passing maneuvers. Compared to the available 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine, this gasoline V8 offers significantly less torque and fuel economy, but it also comes with a lower initial cost and potentially lower maintenance expenses. Compared to the 6.0L with a manual transmission, the automatic provides greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, but may slightly reduce overall fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 6.0L 4WD Silverado 2500HD typically came standard with basic work-truck features. This included vinyl upholstery, a basic audio system, air conditioning, and power windows and locks. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, power-adjustable seats, a trailer brake controller, and various towing packages. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Trim levels varied, but generally offered incremental upgrades in interior materials and features.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500HD features a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup, which is well-suited for carrying heavy payloads. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the 6.0L V8-powered Silverado 2500HD as a capable and reliable work truck. While it didn’t offer the same level of refinement or fuel economy as the diesel option, it provided a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck market. Fuel economy was typically in the range of 14-16 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Duramax diesel, the gasoline engine was praised for its lower maintenance costs and simpler design. However, the diesel offered significantly more towing capacity and better fuel economy, making it the preferred choice for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 has proven to be a durable and reliable engine, and Silverado 2500HDs equipped with this powertrain continue to be popular on the used car market. While not as sought-after as the diesel variants, these trucks offer a good value for buyers who need a capable work truck without the higher cost of a diesel engine. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and occasional sensor replacements. Overall, the 2015-2019 Silverado 2500HD with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission remains a viable option for those seeking a dependable and capable heavy-duty truck.
