- Smith Chevrolet Cadillac
- 950 Notre Dame Drive
- Kamloops BC
- V2C 6J2 Canada
- Toll-Free:
- www.smithgm.com
Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD from BC Cadillac dealer
Chevrolet Silverado 3500
Fuel Economy
n/a
L/100K
n/a
L/100K
Vehicle Dimensions (mm)
2011 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 WT Regular Cab LWB |
|
|---|---|
| Fuel City | n/aL/100K |
| Fuel Highway | n/aL/100K |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Max Power | 268 KW 360 HP |
| Body Type | Pick-up |
| Number of Doors | 2 |
| Engine | 6l |
| Drive Wheels | Rear Wheel Drive |
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD & 3500 HD Road Test
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| The Silverado 2500 and 3500 HD are excellent workhorses. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
Following the successful launch of the latest Silverado (which notably won North American Truck of the Year for 2007), Chevrolet unveiled the Silverado HD, or Heavy Duty. Compared to the heavy duty Dodge Ram and the previous generation Ford Super Duty, it's so good that it has earned benchmark status. It may be true that Chevy’s reign as champ was shorted due to the fully redesigned and outrageous new Ford Super Duty truck, which included the world’s first ton and a half pickup, the F-450, but the three-quarter ton Silverado 2500 HD and one-ton 3500 HD have not lived in the shadow of the Blue Oval.
Pickup trucks wear their manufacturer’s logos like symbols of pride, but it isn’t just the Chevy name which people have grown to trust over the years.
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| Proudly wears brand names that people can depend on. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
Anyone that is seriously considering towing and hauling will pick diesel. Not only are they generally more capable due to their stronger design and torque production, but they are also more fuel efficient. By far, the nicest diesel in the “heavy duty” segment is the Silverado’s Duramax. It is the smoothest running of the oil burners, not to mention the most powerful as well. The Duramax “six-six” V8 (6.6 litres (6.6 L = 1.74 gal), in case you were wondering) produces 365 horsepower and an unfathomable 660 lb (660 lbs = 299 kg)-ft of torque. That’s 15
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| Vortec V8 is also a good engine, but for the best, go for the diesel. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
Offered in a choice of single, extended or crew cab configurations, there’s pretty much a Silverado HD for every purpose. The tow rating for all 3500 diesels is 5,897 kg (5,897 kg = 13,001 lbs) (13,000 lbs (13,000 lbs = 5.9 t)), which, while impressive all on its own, is actually less than both rivals from Dodge and Ford. A Ram 3500 can tow a maximum of 7,416 kg (7,416 kg = 16,349 lbs) (16,350 lbs (16,350 lbs = 7.42 t)) and a Ford F-350 will safely tow up to 6,486 kg (6,486 kg = 14,299 lbs) (14,300 lbs (14,300 lbs = 6.49 t)). Another mark against the Silverado has to do with its fuel tank size; it is smaller than either the Ram or the F-Series, by four and 15 liters (15 L = 3.96 gal) (one and four gallons) respectively, comparing crew cab, long-bed, and one-ton models. This means refueling will occur more often.
And while I haven’t towed with the 3500 HD diesel, I can say with great confidence that it certainly feels like it can bring along a 5,897 kg (5,897 kg = 13,001 lbs) (13,000
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| Interior is pretty much the same as it is on the regular Silverado 1500. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
This has to do with the advanced diesel engine. Though it is genetically related to the same unit that powered Hummer’s mighty H1 Alpha, it has been heavily reworked. For instance, the turbocharger now features variable fins for better response and less lag, while the pistons and cylinder heads are made of lightweight aluminum. Last but not least, all diesel engines used in three-quarter and one-ton trucks run on low-sulphur diesel and feature a particulate filter, so the sight of sooty, smelly fumes belching out of the tailpipe is a thing of the past. Note that the Duramax engine and Allison automatic as a package cost a small fortune, but from my point of view it’s worth each and every penny.
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| Vortec is a name that regular Silverado and Sierra drivers will be familiar with. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
If diesel isn’t your thing, Chevy also offers a gas-powered V8. Note the use of the word “a”; there’s only one. GM discontinued the giant 8.1-litre engine which was offered on the old Silverado HD, making the new “Gen-IV” small-block 6.0-litre the sole choice. Though it’s the same size as the older engine, it too represents a vast improvement over the outgoing engine. With the exception of the upcoming 2009 / 2010 Ram Heavy Duty with the second-generation HEMI V8, this is the only truck in the class to feature variable valve timing. The usual benefits of VVT are present; improved fuel economy, fewer emissions and extra power. Overall, this engine makes 353 horsepower and 373 lb (373 lbs = 169 kg)-ft of torque. Our 2500 HD tester featured this gasoline powered unit, and was quite impressive. Unloaded it responded better to throttle input than the diesel, not to mention it was quieter on startup, however, on the move the noise differences are negligible.
Allison’s T1000 six-speed automatic, the default transmission for the diesel, is also worthy of praise. The six-speeder shifts smoothly and offers both a tow/haul mode and manual shift control. It’s a great gearbox, but anyone
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| Brake balance control for trailers gives better stability. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
Moving on to the rest of the truck, the Silverado HD looks like the standard Silverado but beefed up as if on steroids. It stands taller than the 1500, but not as tall as the Ram or F-Series, and while the boxy looking cab can easily be picked out as Chevy (there’s no hiding that grille), it’s the bulges of the broader fender flares and the domed hood that convincingly display the HD’s muscle and capabilities. Of its rivals, I find the Silverado HD series of pickups to be handsomely styled and a bit, well, delicate looking. The mirrors, while large and with good visibility, are gently rounded rather than just big chunks of plastic, and the roof-top lights on the 3500 HD dually crew cab are smaller, and more streamlined compared to those used on the Ram.
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| Info is displayed right below the tach. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
The interior of both HD pickups are unchanged from the half-ton Silverado. You sit in the same front bench or bucket seats, with the same choice of dashboards (Pure Pickup, or Luxury) and you can get the same toys, like navigation, a sunroof and a powerful stereo system. Ergonomically, the cabin is sound with the exception of the tiny HVAC buttons, which can be a touch hard to push when wearing chunky winter gloves. Overall, however, the cabin is finished nicely, and feels like it's well built. Unlike Dodge’s Ram or the F-Series Super Duty, there is no overt “Wild West” themed interior. Go for the top of the line LTZ and you’ll get leather and wood, but they’re in normal colours and textures.
It didn’t take saddle-style hides or navigation with voice recognition software to convince me of the Silverado HD’s refinement. Unlike the Ram, which feels creaky and dated, or the F-Series Super Duty which comes across as overtly stiff and choppy, the Silverado always maintains a degree of suppleness that you wouldn’t normally expect from this caliber of truck. Large potholes which should in every
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| Not just six bolts - eight bolts! (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
One final feature worth mentioning that is sure to please those who tow is the integrated tow control module. This is the first time GM has ever offered this feature straight from the factory; up until now, only Ford offered it. The switch is located low on the dashboard, right by the driver’s left knee. It’s a bit out of sight, and I’m told it’s in an unusual location; a much more common place is on the right by the centre console. Though its function of trailer braking and its operations are unchanged, it doesn’t have the “Gain” display on the unit itself which might confuse aftermarket unit operators. Instead, this info is displayed in the instrument panel as a function of the trip computer.
With so many different price combinations available, it would be a bit messy to do the usual pricing run down, so, here it is in a much more concise, number-free format: comparably equipped, the Silverado HD costs a bit more than Dodge’s Ram, but less than Ford’s Super Duty. It may not be able to tow or haul as much, but it’s much more comfortable and more refined, not to mention the diesel engine is the stuff of dreams. Put it this way - even if you aren’t a Chevy guy, this is one truck you’ll seriously have to check out before writing the check. It’s that impressive.
Specifications (Silverado 2500 HD / 3500 HD):
- Base Price Range Price (2500 HD): $32,280 - $52,805
- Price Range Price (3500 HD): $37,440 - $54,190
- Body Type: 2 or 4-door pickup truck
- Layout: front engine, RWD (opt. 4WD)
- Engine (gasoline): 353 hp, 373 lb (373 lbs = 169 kg)-ft of torque, 6.0L (6 L = 1.59 gal), 16-valve, OHV, V8
- Engine (diesel): 365 hp, 660 lb (660 lbs = 299 kg)-ft of torque, 6.6L (6.6 L = 1.74 gal), 16-valve, OHV, V8 turbodiesel
- Transmission: 6-spd auto w/manual mode
- Brakes (front/rear): disc / disc, ABS, BA
- Tires: 245/75R16 (opt. 265/75R17)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): Not Rated
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive, 60/160,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 Heavy Duty, Ford F-250 / F-350 Super Duty, GMC Sierra 2500 HD / 3500 HD
- Web Site: www.chevrolet.gm.ca
Interior
- Other-integrated
navigation system: voice
info - Seating: 3 seats
- Audio system with AM/FM
radio - Front reading lights
- Dashboard
- Tachometer
- Trip computer: includes
average fuel consumption
and range for remaining
fuel - Load restraint: hooks
- Front seat center armrest
- Steering wheel ; includes
tilting adjustment - Cupholders in front row
- Air conditioning
- Fixed rear window
- Fuel consumption:
- 4 speakers
- 12V in front
- Passenger vanity mirror
- Service interval
indicator - Clock
- Floor covering:
plastic/rubber in
passenger compartment - Seat upholstery: vinyl
- Front seat: driver,
passenger, center
40/20/40 split - Power steering
- Ventilation system
- Rear view mirror
Exterior
- Doors: driver and
passenger : front hinged - Straight side pickup bed
- Driver and passenger door
mirror: black, externally
adjustable - Dual rear wheels
- Clearance lights
- Metallic paint
- Windshield wipers with
variable intermittent
wipe - Spare wheel: fullsize
with steel rim
Mechanical
- Powertrain type :
combustion - 3.730:1 axle ratio
- Fuel system: multi-point
injection - Independent front
wishbone suspension with
stabilizer bar and
torsion springs, rigid
rear beam suspension with
leaf springs - Transmission: 6-speed
automatic w/ manual mode
; incl. shifter on column
- Rear-wheel drive
- Emissions data:
- Fuel: unleaded ( 87
octane) and/or E85 - Heavy duty suspension
Safety
- Electronic brake
distribution - 4 disc brakes (4
ventilated) - Chrome front and rear
bumpers - Headlights: halogen with
complex surface lens - Daytime running lights
- 2 height adjustable head
restraints for front
seats
- Low tire pressure
indicator - ABS
- Immobilizer
- Headlight control with
dusk sensor - Intelligent driver front
airbag, intelligent
passenger front airbag
with occupant sensors - 3-point height adjustable
front seat belts with
pre-tensioners for
driver, 3-point height
adjustable front seat
belts with pre-tensioners
for passenger, 3-point
front seat belts for
center
Dimensions
- External dimensions:
overall length (mm):
5,715, overall width
(mm): 2,436, overall
height (mm): 1,966,
ground clearance (mm):
224, wheelbase (mm):
3,396, front track (mm):
1,742, rear track (mm):
1,897 and curb to curb
turning circle (mm):
13,900 - Cargo area dimensions:
length (mm): 2,484, front
width (mm): 1,588, width
between arches (mm):
1,285, height (mm): 533
and loading floor height
(mm): 963 - 136 litre fuel tank
- Power: 360 HP @ 5,400
rpm; 380 ft lb of torque
@ 4,200 rpm - Front and rear steel
wheels: 17"x 6.5" ;
includes partial wheel
covers
- Internal dimensions:
front headroom (mm):
1,049, front hip room
(mm): 1,532, front leg
room (mm): 1,049 and
front shoulder room (mm):
1,656 - Engine: 6.0L V 8 OHV
with VVT ( 9.6 :1
compression ratio ; 2
valves per cylinder) - Front and rear all-season
tires with black sidewall
: 235/ 80/ " S " rated - Weights: gross vehicle
weight rating (kg):
5,670, curb weight (kg):
2,796, gross trailer
weight braked (kg): 5,897
and payload allowance
(kg): 2,874
Misc
- Voice activating system
includes phone and
naviagtion system - Charges: Air Conditioning
Tax $ 100.00 - Cellular phone
- Telematics : includes
engine shut down - Delivery/freight charge:
$ 1,450.00
(J005) Standard Gloss Paint
Gloss paint
Excludes: [J004] Standard Black Paint
(G80) Locking Differential
Rear mechanical limited slip differential
(**B) Cloth Seat Trim
Seat upholstery: cloth Front seat: driver
Excludes: [88V] Dark Titanium Vinyl
(K34) Cruise Control
Cruise control Multi-function steering wheel
(B30) Color-Keyed Carpeting
Floor covering: carpet in passenger compartment Plastic/rubber floor mats
(AJ1) Glass: Deep-Tinted
Privacy tinted glass on rear Privacy glass on rear
(TRW) Provision for Cab Roof-Mounted Lamp/Beacon
(DF2) Camper Style Exterior Mirrors
Recreational door mirrors
(J004) Standard Black Paint
Black paint
Excludes: [J005] Standard Gloss Paint
(US8) AM/FM Stereo w/CD
Audio system with CD player (reads MP3) ; includes RDS Audio Connectivity: AUX jack Audio anti-theft protection: code
(K05) Engine Block Heater
Block heater
(C49) Defogger: Rear
Rear window with defroster
(PEB) Bluetooth for Phone
Wireless connection: Bluetooth Leather steering wheel Remote audio controls: steering wheel mounted
(MW7) 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission: 6-speed ; incl. shifter on column
(KW1) Alternator, 160 Amp
Heavy duty alternator
Excludes: [LGH] Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 And [K76] Alternator, Dual, 125 Amps Each
(ZW9) Pickup Bed Delete
(UY2) Wiring Provisions Camper/5th Wheel/HD
Excludes: [ZW9] Pickup Bed Delete
(JL1) Trailer Brake: Integrated Controller
Excludes: [ZW9] Pickup Bed Delete
(TP2) Battery: Auxiliary
Heavy duty battery
Excludes: [LGH] Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8
(GT5) Rear Axle Ratio, 4.10
4.100:1 axle ratio
Excludes: [LGH] Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8
(K76) Alternator, Dual, 125 Amps Each
Heavy duty alternator
Excludes: [KW1] Alternator, 160 Amp
(LGH) Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8
Engine: 6.6L V 8 OHV ( 16.8 :1 compression ratio ; 4 valves per cylinder) Turbocharged with intercooler Power: 335 HP @ 3,000 rpm; 685 ft lb of torque @ 1,600 rpm Heavy duty battery Fuel: diesel Fuel system: diesel direct injection
Excludes: [TP2] Battery: Auxiliary
(Z82) Trailering Special Equipment: H.D.
Trailer towing preparation includes: trailer hitch and removable
Excludes: [VF7] Bumper Delete Provision
(VF7) Bumper Delete Provision
Excludes: [Z82] Trailering Special Equipment: H.D.
(SAF) Spare Tire Lock
Excludes: [VF7] Bumper Delete Provision
(UF3) High Idle Switch
(ZZT) Spare Tire, LT235/80R17E On-/Off-Road
Spare wheel: fullsize with steel rim (stored under body)
Excludes: [ZQO] Spare Tire, LT235/80R17E All-Season And [ZGM] Spare Tire, LT265/70R18 All-Terrain
(ZQO) Spare Tire, LT235/80R17E All-Season
Spare wheel: fullsize with steel rim (stored under body)
Excludes: [ZZT] Spare Tire, LT235/80R17E On-/Off-Road And [ZGM] Spare Tire, LT265/70R18 All-Terrain
(SRW) Single Rear Wheel
Front and rear wheels: 18"x 8.0" Front and rear tires 265/ 70/ " S " rated Stability control Electronic traction control (via ABS & engine management) Hill holder Brake assist system Roll stability control
Excludes: [QZT] LT235/80-17 BSW On/Off Road Tires
(U01) Lamps: Roof Marker
Clearance lights
(PCX) LS Package
Front and rear steel chrome wheels: Chrome grille Front fog lights Remote keyless power locks
(U2K) XM Satellite Radio
Audio system with AM/FM/satellite radio If: [PCX] LS Package New Price 260.00:
(QGM) LT265/70-18 BSW On/Off Road Tires
Front and rear tires with black sidewall : 265/ 70/ " S " rated
Excludes: [QZT] LT235/80-17 BSW On/Off Road Tires
(QZT) LT235/80-17 BSW On/Off Road Tires
Front and rear tires with black sidewall : 225/ 75/ " S " rated
Excludes: [SRW] Single Rear Wheel And [QGM] LT265/70-18 BSW On/Off Road Tires
(ZGM) Spare Tire, LT265/70R18 All-Terrain
Spare wheel: fullsize with steel rim (stored under body)
Excludes: [ZZT] Spare Tire, LT235/80R17E On-/Off-Road And [ZQO] Spare Tire, LT235/80R17E All-Season
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