2006 Chevrolet Silverado HD: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Silverado HD is largely unchanged for 2006, awaiting a redesigned version due in calendar 2007. These pickup trucks are the heavy-duty versions of the Silverado 1500. It comes in 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 versions and is intended for commercial use. Three cab types are available: regular cab, extended cab with rear-hinged back half-doors, and a crew cab with four full-size front-hinged doors. All can be ordered with front bucket seats or a 40/20/40 split bench. The extended and crew cab models include a three-person rear bench. The regular cab comes with an 8-foot bed. Extended- and crew-cab models comes with either an 8-foot bed or a 6.5-foot bed. Chassis-cab and chassis cutaway models are also offered.

Both Silverado HD models are available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. An electronic-shift transfer case is standard on 4WD LT2 and LT3 models, optional on others. All models have standard dual dashboard airbags and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Side-curtain airbags are not offered.

Base engine is a 6.0-liter V8. Optional are an 8.1-liter V8 and 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8. The Duramax has been revised this year and offers 310 hp with manual transmission and 360 hp with automatic. The base engine teams with 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic with Tow/Haul mode. The two larger engines have a 6-speed manual or optional Allison automatic that's been given an extra gear for a total of six and offers Engine Grade Braking, an electronic feature that makes an automatic downshift when descending steep slopes.

Options include satellite radio, OnStar assistance system, a rear-seat entertainment system for Crew Cabs, and power-extending camper mirrors. For 2006, 2005HD models get grille and hood to match 3500 models, previously, 2500HD featured front-end styling that aped the 1500s. Silverado HD is similar to GMC Sierra HD.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty 1/2-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider 3/4- or 1-ton models.

Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.