Key Features of the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8

The available Duramax 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 is the heart of the Silverado HD’s maximum capability. With 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque, it is tuned for low-end strength and sustained pulling on grades. This engine pairs with the Allison 10-speed automatic to keep revs in the sweet spot under load, promoting confident acceleration, smoother downshifts on descents, and improved control when passing with a trailer. Properly configured, the diesel powertrain enables towing up to 36,000 pounds. That performance is supported by integrated trailering systems, including an available in-cab trailer brake controller, trailer maintenance profiles, and camera views designed for safer, simpler hitching and lane changes. For customers who tow frequently—fifth-wheel, gooseneck, enclosed equipment, or multi-axle travel trailers—the Duramax stands out as a long-distance, heavy-lift specialist.

6.6L Gas V8

The standard 6.6-liter gas V8 delivers 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, providing predictable, durable power for mixed-duty use. Paired with the Allison 10-speed, the gas engine benefits from smart gear spacing that helps it stay responsive without constant high revs. For owners who split time between commuting, jobsite hauling, and occasional towing—often in the 10,000 to 15,000-pound range—the gas V8 offers a compelling balance of capability and simplicity. It is compatible with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and both single and dual rear-wheel setups on the HD platform, so you can tailor the truck to your payload and traction needs without stepping up to diesel.

Allison 10-speed Automatic

Every 2026 Silverado HD powertrain pairs with an Allison 10-speed automatic. The transmission’s calibration is specifically engineered for heavy-duty tasks—long grades, heavy loads, and frequent start-stop towing. Close gear spacing allows the truck to hold optimum torque while minimizing hunting between ratios. Intelligent downshifts on downhill stretches assist engine braking, helping maintain speed control and reducing wear on friction brakes. Drivers notice the difference most when merging while towing or when pulling away on an incline—the power delivery feels composed, measured, and consistent. The Allison 10-speed is a core reason the truck feels confident, whether you are rolling empty or at maximum GCWR.

14-Camera Trailering System

The Silverado HD’s available 14-camera system offers multiple perspectives tailored to towing. Key views include hitch guidance, bed view, rear side views down both trailer flanks, and the helpful transparent trailer view that virtually lets you see through a properly set up compatible trailer to help with merging and parking lot maneuvers. The system is especially useful for navigating fuel stations, construction sites, and tight rural driveways. Layer in available adaptive cruise control tuned for trailering, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and you get a truck that reduces stress where many HD owners spend most of their miles—on the road with a trailer.

13.4-inch Google-based Infotainment

On LT, LTZ, Trail Boss, High Country, and ZR2, a 13.4-inch touchscreen is standard, running a Google-based interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Physical knobs for volume and tuning remain, as do helpful shortcut buttons and voice commands that are reliable with work gloves. You can save multiple trailer profiles to track maintenance and settings and use a compatible smartphone app to check certain trailer functions. Available wireless smartphone charging adds convenience, while the spacious cabin storage—like the large center console bin—helps keep tools and tech organized. This blend of tactile controls and modern software makes the HD’s cabin easy to live with, whether you are on a jobsite or headed out across states with a fifth-wheel.