Chevy Silverado HD heavy-duty pickups are about real work and serious play. The 2500-series is often used like a second car and charged with pulling the boat or trailer on weekends, while the 3500 usually sees hauling and pulling duty on a routine basis and tows fifth-wheel RVs and six-horse trailers. With a trailer of 5,000 pounds or less, or infrequent carriage of building materials, you'd be better served with a Silverado 1500.

But for those who need it, the Silverado HD models are the only heavy-duty pickups with independent front suspensions on four-wheel-drive units, for better ride and steering than the competition. The 6.0-liter gas V8 is the strongest standard engine, and the 6.6-liter is the most powerful turbodiesel. The standard six-speed automatic one-ups the competition and only GM includes OnStar. It is well finished, inside and out.

After a mid-2007 debut for the new Chevy Silverado HD, the 2008 models get some minor yet worthwhile upgrades. These include brighter instrumentation, 17-inch wheels on dually models, standard XM radio with three-month subscription. Regular Cab pickups offer a power front bench seat option, split 40/20/40.

A choice of interiors is available, with different dashboards rather than merely varied finishes. You can have it sweep-out simple, or served up with heated leather, navigation, and an expensive-looking opaque shade for the moonroof. Regular cabs are roomy enough for three, extended cabs are ideal for younger families and have a thoughtful new rear door design, while the crew cab is suitable for four or five big athletes or pony-sized dogs.

The Silverado HD is the most car-like of big pickups, whether referring to interior appearance or driving feel. Yet it carries and tows as well as other heavy-duty pickups. With close to 100 derivatives in cab/box/trim/drive choices and option sheets to fill many pages, there should be an example to fit your tastes and requirements.