2010 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 Review

Overview

The 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is a one-ton pickup truck that provides excellent towing and hauling capacities as well as a refined and smooth ride. The 2010 Silverado 3500HD is offered in three body styles ? regular cab, extended and crew cab and three trim levels ? base WT (Work Truck), LT and upscale LTZ in single- or dual-rear wheel. A carryover from 2009, the six-passenger Silverado 3500HD?s changes are minor including a pair of new exterior colors and the inclusion of a USB port on all but the base radio.

Power and performance

Two powerful engines are available on the 2010 Silverado 3500HD. The standard engine is a Vortec 6.0-liter V8, which boasts a stunning 360 horsepower at 5600 rpm or 322 horsepower at 4400 rpm for the 3500HD Big Dooley models. The engine is teamed with a standard Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission. The engine utilizes Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology for optimum combustion, enhanced low-end torque and high-end power, good fuel mileage, and low-end emissions. A vigorous Duramax 6.6-liter, turbo-diesel V8 engine that sends 365 horsepower is optional. The Turbo-diesel engine is coupled to an Allison six-speed automatic transmission. Its rail fuel injection system features advanced electronics and pilot injection to maximize fuel economy, help reduce emissions and combustion noise. Buyers can choose either a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configuration on the Silverado 3500HD.

Body and styling

The 2010 Silverado 3500 truck gets bold and muscular design elements. A wide and tall dual-port grille with a prominent gold bow tie emblem that is flanked by plush reflector-optics headlamps at the centre and large door-pull handles enhance its appearance. Silverado 3500 HD has an impressive and quiet interior that comes with excellent fit and finish, improved cabin materials and comfortable seats. More space for passengers, good amount of storage cubbies, cupholders, three power points and simple, large controls create a user-friendly atmosphere inside the Silverado 3500. Vinyl 40/20/40 split-bench seats with recliners are standard on the WT trim and custom leather-appointed, reclining, heated, 10-way power-adjustable front bucket seats are standard on the LTZ version. Some key standard features include oil cooler, instrument panel, a family of 16-inch chrome-clad steel, 17-inch machined-aluminum and steel wheels, AM/FM stereo with MP3-compatible CD player and XM radio with three trial months.

Safety Features

Standard safety features of the Silverado 3500 HD include frontal air bags; front seatbelt pre-tensioners; tire pressure monitor; driver information center; OnStar with a one-year safe-and-sound plan; and StabiliTrak electronic stability control system. The Silverado 3500 HD's tough ladder frame and strong body structure provide additional protection to occupants. An ABS-integrated trailer brake controller is available.