The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD IV (T1XX) Crew Cab Long Bed, equipped with the 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 401 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2020 through 2023, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 2500 HD lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology aimed at buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity without opting for the highest, most expensive trims. It was part of the fourth generation (T1XX) of the Silverado HD series, known for its increased strength and refinement over its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD IV (T1XX) Crew Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 V8 (401 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 year |
| End of production | 2023 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 401 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 629 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 463.93 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L8T |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm / 4.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm / 3.86 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l / 8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.1 l / 15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3009 kg / 6633.71 lbs |
| Max. weight | 4672 kg / 10300 lbs |
| Max load | 1663 kg / 3666.29 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2364 l / 83.48 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 | 6759 mm / 266.1 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2079 mm / 81.85 in |
| Height | 2023 mm / 79.65 in |
| Wheelbase | 4369 mm / 172.01 in |
| Front track | 1731 mm / 68.15 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1736 mm / 68.35 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 256 mm / 10.08 in |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17; 245/75 R17; 275/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Silverado 2500 HD IV is the 6.6-liter L8T V8 engine. This is a naturally aspirated, gasoline engine featuring direct injection and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The engine utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency. The L8T produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, making it a potent workhorse. The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its durability and smooth shifting. This transmission is specifically tuned for heavy-duty applications, with reinforced components to handle the high torque output of the V8. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, providing adequate power across a wide range of speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.6L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination delivers a robust driving experience. While not as quick as some of the lighter-duty Silverado trims, the 2500 HD offers ample power for hauling heavy loads and towing large trailers. The automatic transmission provides smooth and predictable shifts, and the engine’s torque curve ensures strong acceleration even when fully loaded. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the gasoline V8 offers a more responsive feel and a quieter cabin experience, but sacrifices fuel economy and ultimate towing capacity. The gear ratios are well-suited for maintaining highway speeds while towing, and the transmission’s tow/haul mode further optimizes performance by holding gears longer and providing engine braking assistance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 2500 HD IV with the 6.6L V8 and automatic transmission was typically offered in several trim levels, including Work Truck (WT), LT, and LTZ. The WT trim served as the base model, focusing on functionality and affordability, with standard features like vinyl upholstery, basic infotainment system, and manual climate control. The LT trim added more comfort and convenience features, such as cloth upholstery, an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, and keyless entry. The LTZ trim represented the premium offering, with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500 HD IV features a fully boxed frame designed for strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone components, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with the front discs measuring 355x40mm and the rear discs measuring 360x34mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system is a hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup, providing responsive and predictable steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 2500 HD IV with the 6.6L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its strong towing and hauling capabilities, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. However, some reviewers noted that the gasoline V8 engine’s fuel economy was lower than that of the Duramax diesel engine. Compared to the diesel variant, the gasoline engine offered a lower initial cost and a simpler maintenance schedule. The 2500 HD also faced competition from Ford’s Super Duty and Ram’s Heavy Duty trucks, all of which offered similar capabilities and features.
Legacy
The 6.6L L8T V8 and 6-speed automatic transmission combination in the Silverado 2500 HD IV has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While the diesel engine remains the preferred choice for heavy-duty towing, the gasoline V8 continues to be a popular option for buyers who prioritize affordability and simplicity. On the used car market, these trucks hold their value reasonably well, particularly those that have been well-maintained and have a documented service history. The Silverado 2500 HD IV represents a capable and versatile heavy-duty truck that continues to serve the needs of many owners today.
