Chevrolet trucks are synonymous with reliability, capability, and most importantly, power. At the heart of Chevy's reputation for excellence is the impressive range of engines it uses to power its workhorse vehicles.
Chevy provides different models of trucks, each catering to specific needs. From the midsize Colorado through to the heavy-duty Chevrolet Tahoe, each truck boasts its own range of engine options.
Understanding these different options enables you to match up with the perfect truck to meet your driving needs. Let our experts at Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville take you through a definitive guide that'll tell you everything you need to know about Chevy truck engines.
Evolution of Chevy Truck Engines
The story of Chevy truck engines is a story of constant innovation. Right from the beginning, Chevy had an eye on delivering performance. In the ‘60s, with trucks such as the C10 pickup, a straight-six engine under the hood delivered durability and torque. With a constant drive to get better and push the limits of what its vehicles could deliver, the '70s saw meatier V-8 engines at the heart of trucks that could offer significantly more power and towing capacity.
Today, Chevy has gotten engine design down to a fine art. Modern Chevy truck engines are all about the fine margins, delivering the optimal balance between power, fuel efficiency, and emissions reduction to create vehicles that are fully equipped to meet the challenges of our time while delivering trademark Chevy performance.
Technologies such as direct injection, turbocharging, and variable valve timing have helped deliver a contemporary range of Chevy truck engines that remain fuel-efficient while delivering a staggering amount of torque and horsepower.
Engine Types and Configurations
Different Chevy trucks offer a variety of engine types and configurations to cater to your specific needs.
Ecotec 2.5L I-4
Starting its career powering the Chevrolet Malibu back in 2013, this ultra-reliable, versatile engine is still in use today as the beating heart of the Chevrolet Colorado. It's also found in the Chevrolet Blazer. Coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine can deliver 200 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.
GM 2.7L Turbo I-4
A relative newcomer to Chevy truck engine lineup, this four-cylinder first cropped up in 2019. It's currently in use with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This engine marked the first time GM adapted active fuel management to a four-cylinder engine. Dispelling the myth that four cylinders mean low power, this engine delivers 310 horsepower, 348 lb-ft of torque, and a 9,500-pound towing capacity when used in conjunction with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
GM 3.6L V-6
A gasoline-powered V-6, this dependable and hard-working engine keeps the Chevrolet Colorado moving. GM has moved away from gasoline engines in recent years, focusing more on diesel-powered motors. This impressive engine can generate 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, enabling the Chevrolet Colorado to tow 7,000 pounds and carry a payload of 1,569 pounds.
Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V-8
The Duramax diesel engines power Chevy trucks to deliver far beyond expectations. The 6.6L turbo-diesel V-8 is the top of the line, powering Chevy's heavy-duty workhorse trucks. This top-spec Duramax generates a breathtaking 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque and is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Put it in a Silverado 2500 HD, and it can tow an astounding 18,500 pounds. The Silverado 3500 HD, with this engine as its heart, is able to tow 36,500 pounds.
Performance Features
Modern Chevy trucks come equipped with a range of performance features that boost their capabilities. Direct injection fuel delivery systems, for example, inject fuel straight into the combustion chamber, giving increased fuel efficiency alongside an improved power output. Active fuel management can deactivate certain engine cylinders when they're not needed, further boosting fuel efficiency.
Engine performance and fuel economy are also optimized thanks to variable valve timing. This technology adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust valves, maximizing performance at different rpm ranges.
Turbocharging also gives a significant power boost. Forced induction systems use compressed air to increase the amount of oxygen entering the engine, ramping the engine's power output way up.
Caring for a Chevy Engine
To get the most out of your Chevy engine, regular maintenance and repair is crucial to maintaining performance. Routine things such as regular oil changes in line with manufacturer guidelines, transmission fluid service, spark plug replacement, and maintenance of the coolant system can all boost an engine's longevity.
For all your engine needs, be sure to visit our service center at Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville. Our Chevy-certified technicians have received extensive training dealing with Chevrolet vehicles and can handle any issues your car may have. From regular maintenance tasks to more involved repairs, there are no safer hands for your Chevy engine than the professionals in our service center.
Common Issues
There are a few common issues you might encounter with a Chevy engine that indicate it might be time to visit our service center for a spot of routine maintenance. If your truck is consuming oil at an unusually high rate, for example, this might mean there are issues such as worn piston rings or valve seals. A rough idle or stalling engine could indicate issues with a number of engine components, including the ignition coil or fuel injectors. Finally, the check engine light exists for a reason — if it's on, there's likely some issue with the engine management system.
If you suspect there are any issues with your Chevy engine, book an appointment with our service experts for maximum peace of mind that your truck will be back to top condition before you know it.
The Future and Innovation
The auto industry is ever-evolving, and Chevy is at the forefront of innovation. As the demand for fuel efficiency increases and America's highways become more electric, Chevy engineers will probably invest more in using hybrid and electric powertrains to deliver the unmatched power people expect from their trucks.
Advancements in autonomous driving will also likely usher in a new generation of safety and driver-assistance features for Chevrolet vehicles.
Experience the Power for Yourself at Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville
Chevy continues its proud history of creating trucks with innovative, powerhouse engines under their hood. To experience these dynamic driving machines for yourself, contact us or stop by the dealership today to arrange a test drive. Our dedicated team is on hand to answer any questions you might have and find the perfect vehicle on our lot to meet your driving needs.