The big news at Chevrolet’s truck division is its all-new Silverado 1500, a light-duty pickup that brings a number of innovations to the light-duty truck segment. But that’s not what we’re here to talk about; this buyer’s guide entry is dedicated to the brand’s top-end heavy duty model, the Silverado 3500HD.
Chevy is gearing up for an all-new 3500, so this truck is largely carried over for 2019. So, as before, the standard engine is a 6.0L V8 that makes 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, which can be optioned to a 6.6L turbodiesel good for 445 hp and 910 lb-ft. Both come with a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.
Fierce competition in the heavy duty class means the Silverado 3500 faces formidable foes in Ford’s Super Duty models and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Ram 3500.
Ford is ahead in the power wars at the moment, with its optional Powerstroke diesel boasting 935 lb-ft of torque, but watch for the next-gen Silverado 3500 to challenge that when it arrives for 2020 or 2021.
Cab and bed configurations on offer include a regular cab with long box (eight feet), double cab with standard (6.5 feet) or long box, and crew cab with standard or long box. 2WD and 4WD are available, depending on trim.
Buyers can spec a Silverado 3500 anywhere from a super-utilitarian trim with vinyl floor in the WT to the High Country with its ventilated and heated front seats, wireless device charging, and a premium Bose stereo system. Available soft-touch dashboard materials, comfortable seats, and extra-thick sound insulation make the Silverado a surprisingly refined vehicle on the move. There are USB ports, Bluetooth, OnStar with 4G LTE, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep the Silverado 3500's occupants connected.
A factory-installed fifth-wheel hitch, fully-integrated aftermarket exterior cameras for towing assistance and a digital steering assistant for improved control when driving are among options available to boost the 3500’s utility.
Safety options on the Silverado 3500 include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, and a safety alert seat, which are bundled together in the Driver Alert Package. The Silverado HD does not yet feature radar cruise control or emergency autonomous braking.
You won’t find fuel consumption ratings because Natural Resources Canada doesn’t require them for heavy duty trucks, which are considered commercial vehicles.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
