2008 Chevrolet Silverado HD: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Chevrolet Silverado HD gets a biodiesel-capable version of its 365-hp 6.6-liter V8 and standard XM Satellite Radio on all models. Silverado HD is the heavy-duty version of Chevrolet's full-size Silverado 1500. GMC's Sierra HD models differ mainly in front-end appearance.

Silverado HD comes in 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 series in WT (Work Truck), LT, and luxury LTZ trim. Cab styles are a 2-door regular, a 4-door extended cab with rear access doors, and a crew cab with four full-size front-hinged doors. Rear doors on extendeds now open to 170 degrees and include full-drop power windows. All can be ordered with front bucket seats or a 40/20/40 split bench seat. Extendeds and crews include a three-person rear bench with a flip-up cushion that's now split 60/40. The regular cab comes only with an 8-foot "long" bed. Extendeds and crews also offer a 6.5-foot "short" bed. The long bed is standard when equipped with optional dual rear wheels.

HDs are available with either a standard 353-hp 6.0-liter V8, or a turbodiesel 365-hp 6.6-liter V8. Both engines mate to a 6-speed automatic transmission. A manual transmission is no longer available. Buyers can choose rear-wheel drive or one of two 4-wheel-drive systems with low-range gearing: a basic setup that is not designed for dry pavement, and an all-surface 4-wheel-drive system.

Available safety features include ABS, an integrated trailer-brake controller, and dual front airbags. Every HD has a tire-pressure monitoring system and GM OnStar assistance. An automatic locking rear differential is standard, as is a modified suspension.

Optional equipment includes an off-road package with an uprated suspension and chassis skid plates, rear-obstacle detection, a remote starting system, power-adjustable pedals, and power-sliding rear window (except regular cabs). Also available is an "EZ Lift" tailgate assist feature and bed-wall cargo rails with sliding anchorages for various accessories. Among other options are a swing-out bed extender, heated front seats, a touch-screen navigation system, and rear DVD entertainment.