2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

The heavy-duty Silverado 3500 sees only minimal changes for the 2008 model year, including larger standard wheels (grown from 16 to 17 inches) and the inclusion of satellite radio as a standard feature on all trim levels.

The Silverado has earned considerable praise for its combination of driving refinement and serious hauling capabilities. A properly equipped 3500 can tow an impressive 16,500 pounds and carry two and a half tons in payload. The rugged, heavy-duty pickup benefits from superior build quality, which translates to a quiet and controlled ride at any speed. Many owners and reviewers have also noted the Silverado's inviting and functional cabin, highlighted by very comfortable seating. The primary criticism of the 3500 is the lack of standard and available safety features, including side-impact and side-curtain airbags. Stability control is also absent.

The Silverado is available in three pickup body styles: regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. Chevy does not vary the truck's bed length; every variant comes with an eight-foot bed. There are three main trim levels, ranging from the sparsely equipped Work Truck to the very well appointed LTZ. The mid-level LT trim is further divided into two tiers: LT1 and LT2. Buyers will find most of the comfort and convenience essentials at this level. The LT1 offers chrome grille trim, alloy wheels, a CD player, cruise control, full power accessories, keyless entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The LT2 adds dual-zone automatic climate control, foglamps, front bucket seats, and steering-wheel audio controls. Option availability depends on trim level.

All styles are available with two- or four-wheel drive. The 4x4 system on the two upper trim levels features Autotrac, which automatically shifts into 4WD when slick surfaces are detected.

The Silverado is powered by a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 353 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. This power plant is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Chevy also offers an optional 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8, good for 365 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque. The Duramax also receives a transmission upgrade, working with an Allison six-speed automatic.