Quick Spin: 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Sadly, I do not have a spare Bobcat tractor in my backyard or a tandem trailer to tow it on, so at-load test conditions could not evaluated. Nor was I able to max out the 1,227 kg (2,705 lb.) payload of the 1,718 L cargo box. However, I did fill it completely up with outdoor furniture. The convenient tie-down straps ensured everything stayed in place, even at highway speeds. The rear end of the truck sits so high when lightly loaded, though, that even with the EZ-lift tailgate down it was hard for even me to climb in and out of the bed to remove the chairs and benches. Makes Ford’s tailgate step seem not so silly after all.

2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500. Click image to enlarge

A big complaint about the Silverado is that the styling is viewed by many as out of date. Although the styling is old, I still find it purposeful and intimating; like a man’s classic black suit that never really goes out of style. My test truck featured the deluxe wide-load mirrors that extend out and fold, but are 100 percent manual. Although they are a reasonable $75 option, in a $72,000 truck they should be power operated.

The interior of the Silverado 2500 HD continues the exterior’s old, bland, and all business themes. The front seats are great, roomy and comfortable and I loved the amount of storage spaces inside; I can see why people appreciate such large vehicles. With the rear seat folded up, quite the large storage area opens up behind the front seats and I was able to transport a futon mattress back there. However, I am not a fan of how much bed space is compromised in this pickup truck in the name of rear passenger space. Sure the truck can easily accommodate five adults in comfort, but it comes at the cost of bed length; not everyone will want to have to upsize to the titanic long bed version of the truck. Maybe this is a sign of the times as people are using these trucks as family vehicles or work crew trucks even when lesser hauling capabilities are needed.

Driving a heavy duty truck will always reminds you of its big truck abilities. Don’t think it will drive like a bigger crossover SUV or an enlarged minivan. Tipping the scales at 3,308 kg, this is a true heavyweight. The fact I returned a 16.8 L/100 km average from a nearly 400 hp engine motivating 3.3 metric tonnes is a testament to diesel technology and modern advances in fuel economy. If you need a serious work truck, then this Silverado is worth a look. Otherwise, it may end up being a little overkill for daily life.

Pricing: 2012 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ 2500 Crew Cab 4WD

Base price: $55,190
Options: $9,670 (Duramax Diesel), $1,445 (Allison Automatic Transmission), $1,325 (Power Sunroof), $730 (Convenience Package), $565 (Rear Vision Camera), $440 (Off-Road Suspension), $295 (LT265/70R18 All Terrain Tires), $250 (High Idle Switch), $125 (Tailgate Equipment Package), $75 (Deluxe Wide Load Mirrors), $55 (Wiring Provisions for Trailer)
A/C tax: $100
Freight: $1,495
Price as tested: $71,760

Buyer’s Guide:
2012 Chevrolet Silverado HD