2010 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Review

For 2010, the Chevy Silverado 2500HD gets a more powerful 6.0-liter V8 as well as some minor equipment changes. Highlights of the latter include newly standard air-conditioning for the regular-cab Work Truck and a USB port for the uplevel sound systems.

The 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is a solid choice in the heavy-duty truck segment thanks to its brawny capabilities, refined cabin and comfy ride.

Heavy-duty pickups are a select breed. In fact, there is but a quartet of models to choose from: actually, only three, as two of them are platform mates. Yet the competition is stiff among these big boys, and the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is right in the thick of the melee. Along with its GMC Sierra clone, the Silverado boasts an easy-to-handle demeanor and an inviting, high-quality cabin to go along with the immense hauling and towing capacities one would expect of such a workhorse.

Whether you choose the Silverado or Sierra, you can't go wrong. As far as its rivals, the Ford F-250 Super Duty is similarly comfortable and capable, but the GM trucks still offer a little more work capacity as well as a nicer cabin (especially with the LTZ trim). Last but not least, the Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty has been redesigned this year, and though it can't match the Chevy's hauling capacity, it now has the nicest cabin in the segment as well as a quieter ride compared to its precursor.

The reality is that the differences among all these tough trucks have grown smaller as the vehicles have gotten better with each passing generation. As such, unless you have undying brand loyalty, your purchase decision will likely be made based on nuances such as how the seats fit you and what features you do and don't need.

The standard engine in the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is a 6.0-liter gasoline-fueled V8 making 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. Optional is a 6.6-liter turbodiesel Duramax V8 that boasts 365 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque. It gets a different six-speed automatic and is the go-to choice if you require a burly tow vehicle (it also gets better fuel economy). Properly equipped, the 2500HD can haul up to approximately 3,900 pounds and tow up to 13,000 pounds.

Rear-wheel drive is standard across the board, with four-wheel drive optional. Although the Work Truck 4WD gets a traditional floor-mounted transfer case, the two other trim levels available on the Silverado 4WD get Autotrac, a knob-controlled electric transfer case that features an automatic setting that engages 4WD when wheel slippage is detected.

Antilock disc brakes are standard, while front side and side curtain airbags are not available. Curiously, stability control comes only on standard-bed trucks. A Safety package that includes power-adjustable pedals and rear park assist is optional, as is a rear parking camera.

A notable strong point is the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD's well-weighted steering that provides the driver with a great sense of vehicle control. This is a particular benefit on tight country roads.

Although a heavy-duty pickup and its taut rear suspension will never offer a Cadillac ride, the Silverado 2500 is surprisingly comfortable over long distances. Both engines are strong, but if you can swing the price premium, the hefty performance and reasonable fuel economy of the Duramax diesel make it a very tempting choice.

The 2010 Chevy Silverado 2500HD features two different interior designs depending on trim level. The Work Truck and the LT feature a more utilitarian trucklike dash design with an open lower center portion to accommodate the standard three-person front bench (a center console is added with the optional bucket seats). The LTZ, however, gets the same upscale design as the Chevy Tahoe and Suburban SUVs, lending the Silverado's cabin a classier feel with its wood and metallic accents. With either design you get straightforward controls within relatively easy reach. However, the available dual-zone climate control buttons are small and difficult to operate with gloves.

The front seats are quite comfy, but some editors found the pedals placed too far apart and the tilt-only steering wheel located too close to the dash. Space in the crew cab's backseat is very roomy, and most average-size adults should find the extended cab acceptable. We strongly suggest springing for the available rearview camera, which not only makes parking the behemoth 2500 much easier but also reduces the guesswork when you're hitching up a trailer.