2018 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byTravis LangnessReviews Editor

　　Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.

　　

What’s new

　　A few previously optional items are now standard on the Silverado 2500: a rearview camera, a 7-inch center touchscreen and a six-speaker stereo. Otherwise the 2018 Silverado 2500HD is the same as last year's truck.

　　

Vehicle overview

　　The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is a heavy-duty truck with a refined demeanor and laudable towing capability. Think of the 2500HD as the Silverado 1500's big brother, capable of towing and hauling more but with many of the same styling cues and overall virtues.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　Not Available  for Silverado 2500HD Work Truck

　　Silverado 2500HD Work Truck

　　Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $33,960 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Double Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $36,140 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Double Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $36,335 MSRPWork Truck 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $36,915 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $37,745 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $37,940 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $39,095 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $39,290 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $40,700 MSRPWork Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $40,895 MSRPLT 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $38,325 MSRPLT 4dr Double Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $40,900 MSRPLT 4dr Double Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $41,095 MSRPLT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $41,450 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $43,080 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $43,275 MSRPLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $44,245 MSRPLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $44,440 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $46,375 MSRPLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $46,570 MSRPLTZ 4dr Double Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $46,095 MSRPLTZ 4dr Double Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $46,290 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $48,675 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $48,870 MSRPLTZ 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $49,245 MSRPLTZ 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $49,440 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $51,825 MSRPLTZ 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $52,020 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $55,015 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $55,210 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $58,165 MSRPHigh Country 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $58,360 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　Maximum towing weight for the 2500HD checks in at 14,500 pounds with a conventional tow hitch or 18,100 pounds when using a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer. Those numbers are good enough to compete with any 2500 series pickup truck on the market and certainly more than most people will need.

　　From behind the wheel, the Silverado 2500HD also drives a bit like a pumped-up version of the 1500. It is still quiet and comfortable on the inside, without much in the way of highway noise. It also feels well put-together, boasting sturdy switches and knobs along with a clear and crisp center touchscreen. If you're in need of a massively competent pickup that's also well-rounded as a daily driver, make sure to take a closer look at the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

7.2 / 10

　　The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is a heavy-duty truck with a refined demeanor and laudable towing capability. Think of the 2500HD as the Silverado 1500's big brother, capable of towing and hauling more but with many of the same styling cues and overall virtues.

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LTZ Crew Cab (turbo 6.6L V8 diesel | 6-speed automatic | 4WD | 8-foot-2-inch bed).

　　

Scorecard

Overall	7.2 / 10
Driving	8.0
Comfort	7.0
Interior	7.5
Utility	7.5
Technology	6.0

　　

Driving

8.0

　　The 6.6-liter diesel V8 gives the Silverado 2500HD big towing numbers and impressive acceleration. The steering and braking are less awe-inspiring, but objectively this truck performs well by most standards that matter to truck buyers.

　　

Acceleration

8.5

　　The 6.6-liter diesel makes massive torque and more than sufficient power, which give it a surge of acceleration off the line. In our testing, it zipped from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds. In-town acceleration is more reserved, but there's plenty of power to get this truck up to freeway speed.

　　

Braking

5.0

　　These brakes don't inspire much confidence. Under hard braking, the pedal can go all the way to the floor. Braking distances are long, but in traffic they seem to work well enough if you leave some distance. You just don't feel very connected to the action.

　　

Steering

7.0

　　The steering is well-weighted and provides stability when cruising straight, but it's hard to judge what the tires are doing around turns. The low steering ratio adds stability when towing but results in busy hands when parking or making U-turns.

　　

Handling

7.5

　　The big surprise is how well this gargantuan vehicle takes turns. There's minimal body roll around corners unless you're going way too fast. In parking lots and tight spaces, it maneuvers well enough considering its size.

　　

Drivability

7.5

　　If you live in a city, drivability will be low with any 2500 series pickup truck. Otherwise, the diesel's low-end torque and abundant features make for a pretty approachable truck.

　　

Off-road

8.0

　　Our test vehicle had the Off-Road Z71 package — which is a great deal for the price — and serious ground clearance. You won't be taking this on any tight trails, but it will conquer your average dirt road.

　　

Comfort

7.0

　　Despite the harsh ride from a very stiff and bouncy suspension, the Silverado HD is relatively comfortable. Put a big load in back, and you'll have a road-trip-ready vehicle. But day-to-day comfort suffers, so you might want a 1500 if you don't need the 2500's extra towing capacity.

　　

Seat comfort

7.5

　　You'll find big, well-bolstered and comfortable seats no matter which seating position you're in. The seats are wide with sufficient contours to hold you in place, and they provide great road-trip comfort.

　　

Ride comfort

6.0

　　This truck bounces, shimmies, shakes and jumps over the slightest road imperfections. That's forgivable in the 3500 class, but this 2500 should be a bit better. Load it up with a heavy payload or a big trailer, though, and the ride quality is significantly better.

　　

Noise & vibration

7.0

　　While road noise is subdued, there is quite a bit of wind noise from the Silverado's square front end and big mirrors. The diesel engine rumbles a bit, but it isn't particularly grating or abrasive while cruising on the highway.

　　

Climate control

8.0

　　The big knobs and easy-to-read layouts are a plus. The air conditioning blows cold. The split-operation for the heated seats is a neat feature — you can heat your sore back without cooking your behind as well. The vents are vertically mounted, which isn't ideal, but they're easy to direct.

　　

Interior

7.5

　　While it might not be the most luxurious vehicle in the class, this Silverado HD has a totally livable interior. The overall design is dated, but materials quality is sufficient.

　　

Ease of use

8.0

　　The 2500HD's controls are easy to use with large, legible buttons and quick touchscreen response times.

　　

Getting in/getting out

7.5

　　A grab handle and side steps make it easier to get in and out of the Silverado HD, but there is still some climbing involved. Still, entering and exiting aren't any harder than usual in the HD truck class.

　　

Driving position

8.0

　　The adjustable pedals, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a generally good view over the hood combine for an excellent driving position. You've got a commanding view of the road however you position the seat.

　　

Roominess

8.0

　　Call all your NBA player friends and have them stretch out. You can be tall, wide — or both — and fit with no problem in this truck. It's big on the outside, so there's lots of space for five people on the inside.

　　

Visibility

6.0

　　All of the Silverado's roof pillars are wide and thick and obstruct your view. The big towing mirrors and the rearview camera help the situation, but knowing where the corners of the truck are is tough.

　　

Quality

6.5

　　The body panels and interior pieces are well put-together. We didn't notice any rattling, shaking or malfunctioning during our test. Interior materials aren't the nicest in the class, but they certainly suffice for such a utility-focused vehicle.

　　

Utility

7.5

　　The 2500HD can tow and haul massive loads, and it has abundant interior storage. But offerings from Ford and Ram outclass it in a couple key categories.

　　

Small-item storage

9.0

　　Massive pockets are everywhere. A giant center console, a split-open glovebox, multiple cupholders in each door, both front and back. If you're looking for more small-item storage, the only place you'll find it is in the Ram equivalent, which has small, in-floor cooler boxes in the rear seat.

　　

Cargo space

8.0

　　Mirroring its rivals, the Silverado 2500HD is available with a standard bed (6 feet 5 inches) and a long bed (8 feet 2 inch). Our test truck had the long bed, which allows for a massive amount of cargo space. The rear seats fold up for big interior storage as well.

　　

Child safety seat accommodation

8.0

　　The 2500 can fit three car seats in the back without much fuss. There are two sets of easily accessible lower latch anchors and three shelf anchors that are a bit harder to reach. But this truck's sheer altitude makes it less than desirable unless lifting kids is your workout program.

　　

Towing

7.5

　　The 6.6-liter turbodiesel has massive torque and power, but the Silverado's towing capacities are a bit lower than those of key rivals. The max trailer weight behind the Chevy 2500HD is 14,500 pounds; it can tow 18,100 pounds with a fifth-wheel trailer.

　　

Hauling

7.5

　　All full-size truck beds are similar size. This one can be accessed by corner bed steps built into the rear bumper corners. Payload maxes out at 3,204 pounds — lower than what the class leaders can handle, but only by a few hundred pounds.

　　

Technology

6.0

　　Using Chevy's MyLink interface is pretty simple upfront for the most part, but we had several usability issues with our test vehicle. Finicky voice controls and subpar device integration made for a frustrating user experience.

　　

Audio & navigation

6.5

　　Menu logic on the Chevy MyLink system is easy to understand, but it's not the most elegant in the class. Touchscreen responses are slower than with the class leaders' systems. We like the look of the optional 8-inch touchscreen, but it doesn't stand out much from rival systems.

　　

Smartphone integration

6.0

　　Our experience with smartphone devices was poor, with many dropped connections over the course of the test. When it worked, we generally like the interface, but even then it takes quite a bit of time to load music. Best to use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

　　

Voice control

6.0

　　Several attempts to use the Silverado's built-in voice controls fell short, with a success rate of about 50 percent. It was easier to use the physical knobs and touchscreen controls. That said, Siri and Google Voice can be accessed if you've paired your smartphone by holding the talk button longer.

　　

Which Silverado 2500HD does zzdcar recommend?

　　The 2500HD's base Work Truck trim is definitely appealing when you consider the capability you're getting for your dollar, but we'd recommend going with the LT trim level at the very least. The Silverado 2500HD LT gets the larger infotainment screen and cloth upholstery with carpeted floors. Upgrading to the more powerful 6.6-liter diesel V8 engine is a good idea if you'll be doing a lot of towing. And adding the LT Convenience package, which includes a power-adjustable driver's seat, remote start and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, boosts the 2500's livability.

　　

2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD models

　　The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck with increased payload and towing capabilities compared to the standard full-size pickup from Chevy (the Silverado 1500). The 2500HD is available in four trims: Work Truck (WT), LT, LTZ and High Country. The base WT is aimed squarely at those looking to use the 2500HD as a workhorse at the job site. The LT is the minimum if you want your family to be comfortable, while the LTZ adds luxuries such as leather seating and dual-zone climate control. The High Country adds an upscale flair with ventilated front seats and navigation.

　　Chevy offers the 2500HD in regular-cab, double-cab and crew-cab body styles with a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. The regular cab is available only with a long bed (8.2 feet), while the double-cab and crew-cab models offer either a standard bed (6.5 feet) or the long bed. If you're looking for a truck with a dual rear axle (aka dually), you'll want to check out the beefed-up Silverado 3500HD.

　　All models come standard with a 6.0-liter V8 (360 horsepower, 380 pound-feet of torque) matched to a six-speed automatic. The optional turbocharged 6.6-liter diesel V8 (445 hp, 910 lb-ft) is paired to a more robust Allison 1000 six-speed automatic. Buyers can add a bi-fuel option to the 6.0-liter engine, allowing it to run on gasoline or clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG).

　　Standard equipment for the regular-cab WT trim includes 17-inch steel wheels, an auto-locking rear differential, rubberized floors, vinyl upholstery, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, a driver information display, power door locks, manual crank windows, a rearview camera, air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt-only steering wheel, a 7-inch touchscreen with Chevy's MyLink infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker audio system. The double- and crew-cab WT models get six speakers as standard as well as power windows. Optional on the WT is OnStar (with 4G LTE connection and Wi-Fi hotspot) and satellite radio.

　　The LT trim adds those optional infotainment features, plus an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated and power-adjustable mirrors, a remote-locking EZ Lift & Lower tailgate, remote locking and unlocking, full power accessories, cloth upholstery, an upgraded driver information display, radio and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

　　Above the LT, the LTZ trim includes 18-inch chrome alloy wheels, foglights, power-folding mirrors, a power-sliding rear window with defogger, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, driver's seat memory settings, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 110-volt power outlet, and a seven-pin wiring harness with a trailer brake controller.

　　At the top of the ladder, the High Country comes with 20-inch wheels, side-assist steps, cargo box tie-downs, a spray-in bedliner, a navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, upgraded leather upholstery and a Bose audio system. Also included is the Driver Alert package (lane departure warning, forward collision warning and parking sensors).

　　Most features on the upper trims can be added to the lower trims as options. Other extras, depending on trim, include the 4WD-only Z71 Off-Road package, tow mirrors, a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, a hard or soft tonneau cover, and gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch preparation.

　　

2018 Silverado 2500HD Highlights

Type: Crew CabRegular CabDouble CabRegular Cab

　　Trim: Work TruckLTWork Truck

　　

Base MSRP	$33,960
Engine Type	Flex-fuel (ffv)
Seating	3 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	14,500 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles