Which 2025 Chevrolet Silverado Engine Can Tow Over 10,000 Pounds?

When it comes to capability, the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 continues to be one of the most versatile full-size trucks available. With four distinct powertrain options, multiple body styles, and various axle and drivetrain configurations, it’s no surprise that towing capacity can vary significantly from one model to another. But for those with serious towing needs—those looking to haul over 10,000 pounds—understanding exactly which combinations of engine and equipment can meet that benchmark is essential.

The Silverado 1500 offers a mix of gas and diesel powertrains across the lineup. What’s important to note is that reaching towing capacities above 10,000 pounds isn’t just about horsepower—it’s about the combination of torque, chassis tuning, optional equipment, and how each model is configured. Before examining which versions can handle these high towing demands, it's important to understand the powertrains in more detail.

2025 Silverado Engine Lineup Overview

The Silverado 1500 offers four engines for the 2025 model year. Each is designed with a specific balance of power, efficiency, and towing capability in mind.

2.7L Turbo I4 (TurboMax)

The entry-level engine is anything but basic. Known as the TurboMax, this 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder generates 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It replaces the outgoing V6 and provides strong mid-range power, particularly in urban and light towing situations. However, despite its high torque output, this engine tops out at around 9,400 pounds of towing in optimal configurations. As such, it cannot meet the 10,000-pound benchmark, even with the Max Trailering Package.

5.3L V8

The naturally aspirated 5.3-litre V8 produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque and is one of the most commonly selected engines in the Silverado lineup. This engine offers a good blend of everyday usability and muscle for moderate trailering. In the right configuration—especially with the Max Trailering Package and the right cab and drivetrain setup—it can tow just above 11,000 pounds. Still, not all versions of the 5.3L engine will meet the 10,000-pound threshold, and careful attention must be paid to trim and drivetrain choices.

6.2L V8

The top gas-powered engine, the 6.2-litre V8, delivers 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, this engine is engineered for those who demand serious performance—on and off the job site. When paired with the Max Trailering Package and found in the right trim (such as the RST or LTZ), this configuration can tow up to 13,200 pounds, easily exceeding the 10,000-pound goal across multiple versions. It’s the most consistent option if maximum towing is the primary concern.

3.0L Duramax I6 Diesel

Finally, the Silverado’s 3.0-litre inline-six Duramax diesel engine provides 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. What makes this engine unique is its balance of low-end torque and long-distance efficiency. Diesel engines traditionally excel in consistent towing performance, and in this case, several diesel configurations also surpass 10,000 pounds when properly equipped with the Max Trailering Package.

Silverado Models That Can Tow Over 10,000 Pounds

To simplify your search, here is a comprehensive breakdown of the Silverado 1500 configurations that are rated to tow over 10,000 pounds. All capacities listed assume the truck is equipped with the Max Trailering Package and proper axle ratios, and that it is correctly configured from the factory for towing purposes.

As shown above, the 6.2L V8 stands out for consistently delivering over 10,000 pounds of towing in nearly all of its configurations. The 5.3L V8 and 3.0L Duramax diesel also clear this threshold but only when the vehicle is equipped properly and matched to specific cab and bed layouts. ZR2 trims, designed for off-road performance, sacrifice some of their towing capability due to the added weight of off-road suspension and accessories.

What Equipment Is Required?

Achieving these higher towing numbers isn’t just about engine selection. The Max Trailering Package is essential in most cases. This package includes a heavier-duty rear axle, upgraded suspension, improved cooling systems, and an integrated trailer brake controller. In many trims, adding this package also requires 20-inch wheels and towing mirrors.

Additionally, trucks equipped for heavy towing often include other features that enhance control and safety when trailering, such as:

• Trailer Sway Control
• Hill Start Assist
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
• Hitch Guidance with Hitch View
• Side Blind Zone Alert with Trailer Coverage

These features, available across many Silverado trims, ensure safer and more confident towing—especially when you are near the truck’s maximum capacity.

Towing and Payload: A Delicate Balance

It’s crucial to understand that maximum towing doesn’t happen in isolation. Payload—the amount of weight your truck can carry in the cab and bed—directly impacts towing capability. Exceeding your truck’s payload while also towing a trailer can reduce safety and cause premature wear.

Each Silverado model includes a door sticker that outlines its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). These should be reviewed before taking on any major towing job to ensure compliance with the vehicle’s operating limits.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Silverado for Heavy Towing

For buyers who need to tow over 10,000 pounds regularly, the 6.2L V8 is the most logical engine choice, particularly when combined with the Max Trailering Package. Its powerful output, reliable transmission, and wide availability across trims make it the Silverado’s most capable towing solution. The 3.0L Duramax diesel and 5.3L V8 provide alternative paths to heavy-duty trailering, especially for those looking for a balance between efficiency and performance.

By understanding how cab size, drivetrain, and equipment packages affect towing, you can select the Silverado 1500 that’s best suited for your needs. Make sure to confirm your specific configuration’s capacities using official documentation, and always tow within your truck’s limits for optimal safety and performance.