How much horsepower does a Chevy 3.0 Duramax have?
The Chevy 3.0 Duramax turbo-diesel in the Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 typically delivers 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This baseline is what most buyers will see on window stickers and in official specs.
The exact figure can vary slightly by model year, drivetrain (RWD vs. 4WD), transmission pairing, and local calibrations. The engine is a 3.0-liter inline-six paired with a 10-speed automatic in most configurations, and the mid-range torque is a key strength for towing and highway acceleration. Always check the specific window sticker for the exact rating on the vehicle you’re considering.
Baseline specs
What you should expect from the standard 3.0 Duramax in most light-duty Silverado/Sierra 1500 configurations:
- 277 horsepower (206 kW) at roughly 3,000 rpm
- 460 lb-ft of torque (624 Nm) with peak torque available at about 1,500 rpm
- 10-speed automatic transmission paired with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
These numbers form the core performance profile for everyday driving and towing with the 3.0 Duramax in current light-duty GM pickups.
What can affect the rating
Several factors can influence the published horsepower and torque for a given 3.0 Duramax-equipped truck:
- Drivetrain configuration (RWD vs. 4WD) and the accompanying transmission
- Model year and any mid-cycle updates or calibrations
- Emissions equipment, fuel quality, and altitude
When shopping, verify the exact horsepower rating on the window sticker for the specific truck you’re evaluating, as numbers can vary slightly by trim and year.
Summary
The Chevy 3.0 Duramax delivers a baseline of 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque in most light-duty Silverado/Sierra 1500 applications, with real-world performance shaped by drivetrain, year-specific calibrations, and configuration. This engine emphasizes strong mid-range torque for towing and confident highway performance, and buyers should consult the exact specifications for the year and trim they’re considering.
