The new Duramax 6.6L light-truck diesel engine has launched General Motors into the lead in performance, fuel economy, reliability, and driveability. Tests, comparing GM, Ford & Dodge, have proven GM’s Duramax to be the most towing-capable diesel engine.
The Duramax 6.6L light-truck diesel engine is a result of a joint venture between Isuzu and General Motors Corporation (forming DMAX Ltd.).
Heavy-duty pickup trucks have one mission in life—work. General Motors has a knack for building big trucks that drive easy. The GM trucks are new for 2008, with tougher styling. However, much of the chassis from the previous model remains. And that’s okay; it’s a good one. GM’s biggest rigs are the only ones to use an independent front suspension for both 2wd and 4wd. While 4×4 purists might prefer a solid front axle, these trucks, when used for their intended purpose—that is, work—offer a much smoother ride and crisper handling. In fact, these trucks handle so well, they could be taken for a lighter duty model.
But make no mistake: These are beasts of burden. Base models come with a 353-hp 6.0-liter gasoline V8 with 373 lb.-ft. of torque paired to a six-speed automatic. Most buyers will and should opt for the Duramax diesel paired to the six-speed Allison automatic. It’s one monster of a motor, delivering 365 hp and 660 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s the strongest heavy-duty diesel engine you can buy. And it moves these trucks like muscle cars. Regard-less of the powertrain, GM’s big trucks come in a staggering array of configurations. There are three cab sizes, five wheelbases and a choice of dual rear wheels or single. With a 3500 4×4, dually rear-wheel diesel, you can haul nearly 2 tons in the bed alone or hitch up to a 16,500-pound trailer. On the inside, buyers can choose between two completely different interiors. One is more luxurious (LTZ Model) and comes directly from GM’s Tahoe and Yukon SUVs, and the other, called the (WT) or Work Truck model, is more like a traditional truck interior. On the road or off, the GM heavy-duty pickups make tackling any job easy. And it’s this effortless capability that makes them our favorites.
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