For the 2024 model year, Chevrolet gave its popular Silverado pickup truck a makeover, and that includes the 2500 4WD High Country version we tested.
The changes include a revised front facia, a new cabin, and more power. The result is a good-looking pickup truck, inside and out, while also being quite capable.
While the 2500 has a base price of $93,699, the as-tested cost is about $20K higher.
The optional equipment includes the High Country Premium Package ($2,865) which adds a rear camera mirror, heads-up display, a power sunroof and a 15-inch display.
The biggest option of all, however, is the Duramax diesel engine on our tester, an extra $10,995.
Because of how tall off the ground the Silverado is, the optional power retractable side steps are well worth the $1,725. It is also prepped for use with a 5th-wheel, an optional $630 package, and the $440 off-rad package which adds skid plates, hill descent control and twin-tube rancho shocks.
Powertrain: The Silverado 2500 4WD High Country can be outfitted with either a gasoline engine or, as in our tester, a massive Duramax diesel powerplant.
The 6.6-litre V8 turbo diesel behemoth produces a massive 470 horsepower and 975 pound-feet of torque, making it ideal for hauling that 5th-wheel trailer or anything else you have in mind, with a maximum capacity of 18,500 pounds.
Exterior: The first thing you notice about the truck is the massive front grille, headlights, and air intake on the hood.
This is one aggressive-looking front end!
Because of its towing capabilities, the Silverado 2500 has substantial side mirrors that stick out like large elephant ears. They are essential though.
The hood is emblazoned with the Duramax and High Country logos.
In addition to those side steps to access the passenger area, the Silverado has steps built into the rear bumper and an optional multi-flex tailgate that also acts as a step to access the truck bed.
Interior: The cabin of the Silverado 2500 High Country is more luxury vehicle than utilitarian pickup truck.
It is comfortable, well appointed with high-quality materials and finishes, and plenty of features.
Rear passengers have lots of room and there are several hidden compartments in the back to keep things away from prying eyes. The first is a door that opens up on the seatback to stow smaller items, and for longer items, the entire bench flips up when needed.
The High Country logo is found a few places throughout the cabin, including being embroidered on the front headrests. The front seats are heated and cooled.
I found the placement of the ignition button a little awkward because when you are seated behind the wheel, it is hidden and you need to lean over to spot it.
There are a lot of buttons and controls, but they are fairly well organized and easy to operate. In addition to the large infotainment screen, the Silverado also has a digital gauge cluster.
Infotainment: The standard infotainment screen on the Silverado is 13.4-inches, which is already pretty good, but I appreciated the optional 15-inch screen on the tester.
The touchscreen functionality is spot on, with clear menus and good response times.
It is powered by the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, with Google built in. It offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio and navigation.
The tester was equipped with a Bose premium sound system featuring seven speakers with a Richbass woofer.
Drive: The Silverado 2500 High Country is a big truck, and it drives like one. The powerful diesel engine doesn’t take long to get the Silverado moving despite its size and weight. Its towing capacity is impressive, and it also has a large, lined truck bed for when not towing a trailer. Of course, with a 5th-wheel hitch in place, you lost more of that utility.
The overall drive in the truck is relatively comfortable, but you do get tossed around a little bit if you are driving over rougher pavement or terrain.
Conclusion: The Silverado 2500 HD is definitely not for everyone – not only because of its elevated price tag, but also because of its capabilities.
However, the powerful engine and towing capabilities will certainly meet the requirements of certain folks – hello there campers and RV haulers.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 4WD High Country
Price as tested: $113,824.00
Freight: $2,200.00
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 6.6-litre V8 turbo diesel/ 10-speed automatic
Power/torque: 470 horsepower/ 975 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Diesel (136 L)
Warranties: 3-years/60,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Ford Super Duty F‑250, GMC Sierra 2500, Ram 2500
Chevrolet Canada