The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD comes in a variety of cab models. These include: work truck, LT, extended cab work truck, extended cab LTZ and crew cab models. This is one of the most popular Chevy trucks because it’s affordable and can carry a lot of weight.
It’s commonly used for drivers who need to haul large loads. The design for the 2012 model has stayed the same, although there are a few upgrades.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Truck | Base Price: $29,100.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 36 gallons (136l) | MPG: NA |
| Length: 225 in. (571.5 cm) | Wheel Base: 133.7 in. (339.6 cm) |
| Height: 77.5 in. (196.8 cm) | Width: 80 in. (203.2 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 6153 lbs (2791 kg) | Ground Clearance: 9.8 in.-front (24.8 cm) |
| Cargo Capacity: 75.5 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 3 people |
| Engine: Vortec V8 OHV 2WD | Displacement: 6.0 Liter |
| Horsepower: 360 HP | Max RPM: 5400 RPM |
| Torque: 380 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing Capacity: 13000 lbs (5897 kgs) | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:WT 4WD | MSRP: $32,055; MPG: NA |
| Option:LT FWD | MSRP: $32,205; MPG: NA |
| Option:LT AWD | MSRP: $35,355; MPG: NA |
| Option:Ext. Cab WT FWD | MSRP: $31,030; MPG: NA |
| Option:Crew Cab WT FWD | MSRP: $33,035; MPG: NA |
Engine
The Silverado HD comes with a 6.0L, V8 engine that produces 360 horsepower @ 5400 rpm and a torque of 380 ft-lbs @ 4200 rpm. It is helped by a 6 speed automatic transmission on rear-wheel drive with independent from suspension and stabilizer bar.
Performance
The Silverado HD gets 15 mpg in the city, 17 on the highway, combined it gets 21 mpg and is able to use flex-fuel. The Silverado HD is quick and efficient on the road, even with heavy loads. Some of the mechanical options include: heavy duty batter, turbo-diesel engine and high performance payload package.
Exterior
This truck comes in many colors. These include: blue metallic, victory red, black, white and many others. Steel 17×7.5 inch wheels come standard with LT245/75R E tires. The tires are all-season, so they can be used all throughout the year.
The bumpers outside the truck are finished in chrome for a richer look. The options for the exterior include: glass with a deeper tint, 5th wheel attachment equipment, brackets for a front license plate and more.
Interior
The front seats are vinyl and can be manually adjusted. Convenience features are: cruise control, power steering, cup holders in the front and back and more. There are reading lights throughout the truck as well as mirrors and an a/c for added comfort. There are four speakers inside the truck and it’s wired for am/fm stereo. Satellite radio is an option that can be added on.
Safety & Reliability
A 4-wheel anti-lock brake system is included with emergency assistance for the brakes. The headlamps can sense dust and auto delay as well. Anchors for child seats and seatbelt pre-tensioners also add safety to this truck. Traction and stability controls help drivers stay in control.
There are also air bags located throughout the truck. There are a few warranties that come with this Silverado when purchased. These include: basic 3 year/36,000 mile, drivetrain 5 year/100,000 mile, roadside 5 year/100,000 mile and rust 6 year/100,000 mile.
Pros
- Can haul a lot of weight without affecting performance.
- Solid body construction.
- Easy to use steering.
- Rides without a lot of outside noise.
Cons
- Odd seating positions.
- Not much different from 2011 re-designed model.
- Steering wheel is tilt-only.
The 2012 Chevy Silverado is generally used as a work truck, but can be used for casual drivers as well. It doesn’t have a lot of high-tech features. Drivers that enjoy the luxury features may be better off with a different model of vehicle or with added options on this one.
Competition
This American dominated segment of pick up trucks include the likes of the Ford Super Duty F250 (MSRP $29,065) and the Ram 2500 (MSRP $28,990). It really all is a matter of preference, its your choice.
What others say:
“Silverado HDs are surprisingly pleasant and manageable for such large, hefty vehicles. Straight-line stability is excellent, though Silverado’s significant size and weight limit cornering speed, as does the expected big-truck body lean. Steering is well-weighted, direct, and responsive. The brakes furnish stable, relatively short stops with fine pedal feel. Plus-size exterior dimensions make close-quarters maneuvering a challenge.”Consumer Guide
“ The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD remains an excellent choice in the competitive heavy-duty truck segment.”Edmunds
