The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD IV, specifically the Crew Cab Long Bed configuration with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment. Introduced with the 2024 facelift (based on the T1XX platform), this variant builds upon Chevrolet’s long-standing reputation for robust trucks designed for demanding work and towing applications. This particular combination targets buyers needing substantial capability without sacrificing a degree of everyday usability and comfort. Production began in 2023, continuing through the current model year.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD IV (T1XX, facelift 2024) Crew Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (470 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 392.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 470 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1322 Nm @ 1600 rpm (975.06 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L5P |
| Engine displacement | 6604 cm3 (403 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 28.5 l (30.12 US qt | 25.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3369 kg (7427.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4990 kg (11001.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1621 kg (3573.69 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 9072 kg (20000.34 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 | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission Allison |
| 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 | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 275/70 R18; 265/65 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado 2500 HD variant is the 6.6-liter L5P Duramax turbo-diesel V8 engine. This engine is a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty lineup, known for its durability and substantial torque output. The L5P utilizes a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its robust construction. It employs a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering highly pressurized fuel directly into the cylinders for efficient combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, forces more air into the engine, boosting power and torque. The engine features an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice prioritizing low-end torque and reliability over high-revving performance. The Allison 10-speed automatic transmission is specifically tuned to handle the engine’s immense torque, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. This transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a robust internal design for heavy-duty applications.
Driving Characteristics
The 470 horsepower and 1322 lb-ft of torque produced by this combination translate into impressive real-world performance. While not designed for outright speed, the Silverado 2500 HD excels at towing and hauling heavy loads. The Allison 10-speed automatic transmission is a key contributor to this capability, offering a wide range of gear ratios to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to gasoline-powered Silverado 2500 HD models, or even lower-output diesel variants, this configuration provides significantly more pulling power and a more relaxed driving experience when towing. The gear ratios are optimized for low-end torque, allowing for confident acceleration even with a substantial load attached. The ride quality, while firm due to the heavy-duty suspension, is surprisingly compliant for a truck of this size.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Bed configuration is a popular choice for those needing both passenger space and cargo capacity. Standard equipment on this trim typically includes features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels, such as LTZ or High Country, add features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras often include a power sunroof, a spray-in bedliner, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500 HD utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension features an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, 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 larger rotors at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine has consistently received positive reviews for its power, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Critics generally praise the Silverado 2500 HD’s towing capacity and overall capability. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 2500 HD, the diesel variant offers significantly better fuel economy when towing heavy loads, although the initial purchase price is higher. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 2500 HD is often seen as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of performance, features, and value.
Legacy
The L5P Duramax engine has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powertrain. With proper maintenance, these engines are known to exceed 200,000 miles without major issues. On the used car market, Silverado 2500 HD models equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel and Allison automatic transmission command a premium price due to their reputation for longevity and capability. The combination of robust construction, ample power, and a smooth-shifting transmission ensures that these trucks remain desirable and valuable for years to come.
