2005 Silverado 2500HD 4x4
With its large band running across the middle of the grill and the unmistakable gold Chevrolet bow tie, the 2005 Silverado 4x4 styling is contemporary and functional. Built on a rigid boxed frame, the Silverado delivers smooth ride and handling and a roomy cabin. The Silverado 2500HD 4x4 like its GMC Sierra sibling, has a spacious and comfortable interior with seating for up to 6, with the option of leather bucket seats with built-in memory that adjust every which way.
Centre console, dual zone climate control and premium Bose 6 stack CD sound makes the driver feel right at home. The large door openings make getting in and out of the vehicle a breeze and the door handles are big and easy to grab. The rear seats, which can be flipped down to provide a big and secure cargo area, are very comfortable and offer reasonable legroom, too. The instrument panel features easy to read speedometer and tacho, along with oil pressure, water temp, battery charge & fuel quantity instruments.
The HD model, a heavy duty trailering package, also comes with a transmission temperature gauge. The headlights are activated through a light sensitive switch and operate automatically when it gets dark. A driver information centre is located in the instrument cluster, which provides information regarding the status of the vehicle. Steering wheel controls activate these functions, including the XM Satellite radio (not available in Australia yet).
Driving impressions
The Silverado 2500 HD 4x4 remains one of the best-driving full size pickups, even when measured against its newer competition. It feels tight and quiet, with little road and wind noise. The Duramax diesel noise is barely noticeable on the road, delivering 310 hp and 605 ft/lb of torque through the smooth-changing 5 speed Allison automatic transmission.
The vehicle handles well on dry surfaces, loose dirt and off road. It tracks straight at speed and holds its line when the rear wheels spin under acceleration.
Steering is responsive through the recirculating ball power steering box that offers the right amount of feedback. Silverado's auto track 4WD system lets the driver press a button to shift between 2WD (for best fuel economy) and 4WD. Select 4WD high and it functions as a traditional part time system that delivers excellent traction off road. Press the button for 4WD low for particularly rugged terrain and it will almost climb a tree! Spinning wheels in the rain? Pressing the Auto 4WD button cures that problem.
With Auto 4WD engaged, step on the throttle in the wet and there's half a moment of wheel spin as power is transferred to the front wheels and the Silverado takes off. Auto 4WD is the mode to be in when the road conditions are loose and fluctuating - icy roads, gravel roads or any slick road surface. Auto 4WD eliminates the binding of the front and rear wheels that can occur with traditional part-time 4WD in tight parking manoeuvres. The Silverado 2500 HD 4x4 with 6.6-litre turbo intercooled Duramax diesel coupled with a 5 speed Allison auto transmission and anti slip rear differential is an impressive vehicle.
Peter Bevitt - Managing Director of AutoSmith International- believes this vehicle can provide what the 4x4 full size pickup market is looking for. Peter has 35 years experience in the automotive conversion and accessory industry, backed by a professional and dedicated team. With up to 5 years extended warranty with 24/7 road side assistance on each vehicle, AutoSmith also offers peace of mind. AutoSmith International is a Quality Endorsed Company operating a registered automotive workshop, ensuring the highest quality workmanship, parts and service in a fully ADR-complied and converted vehicle.
AutoSmith International are constantly upgrading their schedule, with new model vehicles for the Specialty Enthusiast Vehicle market regularly arriving. They can also locate vehicles to suit individual customer needs. If you would like to know more go to their website: www.autosmith.com.au or give them a call on 07 5527 2660.