Used Chevy Diesel Truck Dealer

The History of Chevy Diesel Trucks

Chevrolet trucks have a long history dating back to the early 1900s, but it wasn't until 1978 when Chevrolet pickups received their first diesel engine. Meant to improve the fuel economy of the already popular C/K series trucks, the first diesel engine was an Oldsmobile 5.7L. However, even though it achieved its goal of improving efficiency, with only 120 hp and a poor reputation when it came to reliability, the Oldsmobile engine was short-lived.

But despite its shaky start, Chevy was determined to continue and introduced a significantly better 6.2L Detroit diesel in 1982. Although this engine still wasn't groundbreaking when it came to power, it was incredibly long-lasting, and some vintage truck enthusiasts still own and operate well-maintained 1982 C/K pickups. Many truck enthusiasts appreciate its entirely mechanical engine with no electronic components whatsoever. Warm up the engine block, and the pickup will still run smoothly.

However, Chevrolet wasn't satisfied with a truck that sacrificed the driving experience and performance ratings for the sake of fuel economy. In 1992, they reworked their diesel pickup engines, and a turbocharged version of the Detroit engine was introduced, making significantly more power than the previous versions. This was a momentous step forward for Chevy trucks, paving the way for modern turbo-diesel designs that combine both power and efficiency to handle any task.

When the brand-new Silverado HD hit the market in 2001, it came with an equally-new diesel engine. The 6.6L Duramax boasted eight cylinders, a cast-iron engine block, and high-pressure common-rail injection, boosting output to 300 hp and 520 lb-ft of torque. These numbers were record-breaking for the time, and these trucks are still recognized for their role in pickup history. Even today, these early Duramax trucks continue to provide competitive and reliable service for drivers who are interested in buying an older used truck.

Not much later came a new diesel engine for the 2008 Chevy Silverado HD. These trucks included an optional diesel engine: the Duramax LMM. Known as the first-ever diesel engine to include a diesel particulate filter, 2008-2010 Silverado HDs had an array of emission enhancements and state-of-the-art engine control software. These elements were aimed at prolonging the engine's lifespan and eliminating engine troubles for the driver. They produced similar horsepower and torque as the previous generation, but these Duramax LMM diesel engines were notably ahead of their time, especially when it came to their balance of low emissions, fuel economy, and excellent performance.

However, Chevy's diesel engines were still only available in the Silverado HD series of trucks. Chevy fixed this oversight in 2016, with the introduction of a new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel for the Colorado, making it the only midsize truck on the market with a diesel option. The Chevy diesel truck lineup was finally completed in 2019 when the fourth-generation Silverado 1500 and its 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel arrived to give drivers the same balance of performance and efficiency. All three of these diesel models are now widely available on the used market, giving drivers the chance to find the perfect diesel truck for their personal needs.

Modern Diesel Vehicles

The current 2021 Silverado HD is Chevy's best-performing diesel pickup yet, with a competitive 6.6L V8 Duramax turbo-diesel engine. Its air induction system and variable geometry turbocharger add up to the most powerful, reliable, and clean diesel truck around. Not only does it offer a staggering 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque, the 2021 Chevy Silverado HD includes a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission for a best-in-class max tow capacity of 36,000 lbs! You can rest assured that there is no job too tough for this mighty truck.

If you are looking for something a little smaller, then the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 may be perfect for your needs. Its 3.0L V6 Duramax turbo-diesel provides a generous 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, allowing this half-ton truck to tow up to 9,500 lbs. But not only is this truck quite powerful for its size, but it is also incredibly efficient. In fact, the 2021 Silverado 1500 diesel has the best fuel economy rating of any truck on the market, making it an excellent choice for long commutes and road trips.

Finally, there is the midsize 2021 Chevy Colorado. This compact pickup boasts a 2.8L I4 Duramax turbo-diesel that churns out 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, giving it a best in class max tow rating of 7,700 lbs. No matter which of the three Chevy diesel trucks catches your eye, you can rest assured that you will be getting incredible capability and unbeatable toughness. These trucks can handle just about anything that you can throw at them.

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