Jones Chevrolet - Which engine is best for towing on the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD for drivers around Lexington, SC?
Selecting the right engine for your heavy-duty truck is a decision you feel every mile—especially when you tow. If you are exploring the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and weighing the 6.6L V8 gas engine against the available Duramax® 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8, the right choice comes down to your trailer weight, driving environment, and how frequently you tow.
Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission designed to keep the powerband in the sweet spot across hills, traffic, and open interstate. The gas 6.6L V8 puts out 401 horsepower and 464 lb.-ft. of torque, a strong match for moderate loads and mixed daily driving. The Duramax® 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 steps up with 470 horsepower and 975 lb.-ft. of torque, the combination you want if your trailer approaches the upper end of the truck’s capabilities or if you tow often in hilly terrain or in heavier headwinds.
- Typical trailer weight: If your equipment, RV, or boat is consistently light to moderate, the gas 6.6L V8 offers robust performance and straightforward ownership.
- Heavy loads and frequency: For larger fifth-wheel RVs, car haulers, or frequent towing, the Duramax® diesel’s torque and efficient gearing provide confident acceleration and hill-climb control.
- Driving environment: Diesel shines on sustained grades and long interstate hauls; gas may be preferable if you mainly run shorter, stop-and-go routes.
- Visibility and control: Regardless of engine, available up to 14 camera views—including Hitch View, Transparent Trailer View, and Bed View—help reduce stress when hitching and maneuvering.
- Future-proofing: If your next trailer might be larger, choosing diesel now can preserve margin for growth and maintain confidence in varied conditions.
Beyond raw power, Silverado 2500 HD builds in tools that make towing simpler. The In-Vehicle Trailering App lets you create custom trailer profiles, check pre-departure lists, and monitor connections. Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert extends blind-zone coverage to help you merge and change lanes with a long trailer. That integrated approach—engineered from the frame out—means you feel supported whether you tow weekly or a few times each season.
If off-road access is part of your towing routine—think boat ramps with rough approaches or remote job sites—the available ZR2 is worth a look. It features a 1.5-inch lift, Multimatic DSSV™ dampers, 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory® MT tires, steel skid plates, and a rear electronic locking differential. Those upgrades improve traction, approach angles, and impact protection without losing the heavy-duty poise that makes long tows feel stable.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much can a properly equipped Silverado 2500 HD tow?
When properly configured, Silverado 2500 HD Crew Cab models reach a segment-leading maximum of up to 22,070 lbs. Silverado HD Dually models paired with the Duramax® diesel deliver up to 36,000 lbs of maximum trailering. We recommend reviewing your exact configuration and payload to confirm your rating.
Is Transparent Trailer View worth it?
Yes—Transparent Trailer View can virtually “see through” a compatible trailer to show the area behind you on the center display. It’s especially helpful for lane changes and backing in tight areas with long or tall trailers.
What’s the benefit of the diesel’s 10-speed tuning?
The 10-speed works with the Duramax® torque curve to keep you in the optimal gear more often, improving throttle response on grades and reducing the need for frequent downshifts while towing.
Do I need the ZR2 to tow off pavement?
Not necessarily, but ZR2 hardware—lift, DSSV™ dampers, tires, and underbody protection—adds confidence on uneven approaches, muddy access roads, or sites with debris. It’s a smart match if rough terrain is common on your routes.
The takeaway: choose the 6.6L gas if your trailer is modest and towing is occasional; go Duramax® diesel if your loads are heavy, your routes are long or hilly, or you want extra capability in reserve. For added peace of mind, look to trailering cameras, the In-Vehicle Trailering App, and Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert to round out a smart, safe towing setup. Jones Chevrolet is proud to be serving Columbia, West Columbia, and Lexington with guidance tailored to your exact trailer and route, from axle ratios and tires to the camera views that simplify every hitch and haul.