The 2011 Silverado HD and its GMC Sierra counterpart have received enough technological advancements in the frame, engine, braking and suspension areas to make it tow, haul, ride and perform much better than the previous model. GM went to a fully boxed frame and a heavier independent front suspension, both of which contribute to the new pickups’ enhanced load-carrying and towing capacities. The design upgrades also aim to deliver a smoother, quieter ride and more precise handling – especially under heavy load situations, such as towing travel and equipment trailers. However, the biggest news is that Silverado and Sierra owners no longer have to worry about installing and setting up a weight-distributing hitch; the maximum towing capacity (13,000 to 16,000 pounds, depending on model) is SAE J2807-certified towing “on-the-ball.”
The same new Duramax/Allison 1000 combo available on the Silverado and Sierra also will be available in the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans, which also are getting an extended wheelbase that increases cargo space from 225.1 to 261.6 cubic feet.
