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.

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.

trim levels & features

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.

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).

driving

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

4.5

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

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

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

3.5

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

3.5

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.

comfort

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

3.5

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

2.5

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

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

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

3.5

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

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

getting in/getting out

3.5

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

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

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

2.5

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

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

3.5

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

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

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 accomodation

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.

technology

2.5

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

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

2.5

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

2.5

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.

Features & Specs

	LTZ 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	High Country 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LTZ 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LT 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	High Country 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	High Country 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	High Country 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LTZ 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LTZ 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)	LT 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
Starting MSRP	$51,825	$46,375	$58,165	$40,700	$40,895	$46,570	$37,940	$52,020	$43,080	$58,360	$55,015	$55,210	$48,870	$37,745	$48,675	$43,275
MPG	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Seating	6	6	5	6	6	6	6	6	6	5	5	5	6	6	6	6
Transmission	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)
Horsepower	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm	360 hp @ 5400 rpm

See all 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Crew Cab features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Silverado 2500HD safety features:

Teen Driver Modes: Allows owners to keep tabs on secondary drivers by reporting driving behavior and activate available safety features.
Safety Alert Seat: Vibrates to warn the driver when the front or rear parking sensors, lane departure warning or forward collision warning is triggered.
Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the truck begins drifting outside its lane.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4/5
Driver4/5
Passenger4/5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5/5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5/5
Driver5/5
PassengerNot Rated

Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5/5
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover3/5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover20.4%

Top Consumer Reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

(2)

Consumer Rating

Write a consumer review of your vehicle for a chance to WIN $100!

Write A Review

See Official Rules for eligibility and other requirements.

glmcauley, 6/5/2018

Would Not Do it Again

NOTE: There was no option on the Edmunds website to specify the 6.6L diesel for review. Bought the 2018 Silverado 2500HD LTZ Z71 with the Duramax/Allison combo in November 2018. It sits in my garage while I drive my 2000 Nissan. The one thing I'll say positive about it is the low-end torque on this thing is unmatched. That is the only good side. Beyond that, in my own opinion, everything is over-engineered and way overly complicated. The designs are poorly thought out and remind me of my early engineering classes in which we were challenged to see just how far we could take a design idea. In engineering school you learn the old adage that "just because you can, doesn't mean you should". First example is Chevy's HVAC controls. Look...you don't need to make everything in the world automatic. The computer chips cant tell when so many different conditions exist so they seem to fight each other to figure out what needs to happen. So, when it's 70 degrees outside and I have the thermostat on 71, it doesn't need to blow 100-degree air on me for several minutes struggling to get the temp to 71. Take a tip from foreign manufacturers...red means hot...blue means cold...select a point and go with it...make minor changes to suit your comfort. Perhaps its a minor point for some, but for $60k - $70k, I don't feel like I should get blasted out of the cab and have to keep trying to overcompensate with the HVAC controls to prevent it. In addition, because Chevy decided not to put HVAC controls and/or vents in the back seat of the crew cab, they apparently compensated by making the lowest setting on the blower motor way too high. If you like a soft breeze coming from your AC you can forget that. Next we have the the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank fill. The 2500HD stands fairly tall, which looks cool. But, when you go to add DEF, the fill nozzle is all the way at the back of the engine compartment making it impossible to fill without spilling 36% urea all over the engine, which has to be rinsed off. I purchased a special funnel recommended by the manufacturer of Blue DEF, but it's still difficult to pour a 2.5 gallon jug of DEF into that little nozzle at that angle. Yes, I'll survive, but for this kind of money, one shouldn't have to deal with that kind of nonsense. The on/off button on the head unit isn't really a power button...it's a mute button. You have to go through several steps when your phone is connected via Bluetooth to prevent songs continuing to play in the background. Not a life or death situation, obviously, but why? What the heck? Just one more annoying little design flaw that makes you shake your head. "I spent $60k+ for THIS?" The most negative feature for me is OnStar. I was in a hurry when I bought the truck due to the death of my father. Long story...but I needed a truck that day. I didn't realize I had signed the OnStar agreement and somehow they got my email address through that process. About a month after the purchase I received an email with my "OnStar Smart Driver Report". After a moment of self-admiration of being in the top 10% of Oklahoma drivers (by whatever measure OnStar applies), I started to get that creepy feeling. They had how many hard stops I had performed, my acceleration performance, how many miles I had driven, etc. I really did not realize that I was providing this data to OnStar who was apparently all to happy to provide the data to insurance companies so that I could qualify for a discount. Yet one more Facebook-type invasion of my privacy. I had to spend hours on the phone to finally get the OnStar radio turned off. Not sure if it's really off or not. They stated on the phone that there was no further communication between my vehicle and OnStar, but I got the feeling that there is still some data that they're able to retrieve. I was told that the only way to ensure that no data is transmitted from a vehicle that I purchased was to have the actual OnStar equipment removed, and that had to be done by a dealer. Initial estimate: $1,500. I was also told that I can order a vehicle without Onstar included as standard equipment. Finally, and not quite as annoyingly, whoever I gave my email address to when I purchased this vehicle, shared it with EVERYBODY. I cant tell you how many survey emails I've received. "Tell us how you like your new Silverado!" Over and over again. Then, the amount of snail-mail in my mailbox is incredible. I could have saved $$ on the truck if they gave me the value of all of the mailings I've received from Chevy and from the dealership; and I'm not exaggerating. They've flooded my email box and my snail mail box. So there you have it. I'm not sure that Ford or Dodge will be much better. I'm waiting for Toyota to come out with a 3/4 ton diesel. So far, after owning Chevy and Dodge, and a couple of friends with Fords, the Toyota Tundra (2012 Crewmax) has been, by far, the best truck Ive ever owned or ridden in. I very much dislike this Chevy.

The Bear, 6/21/2018

Needed HD truck to haul travel trailer

I have about 1100 miles on an LTZ crew cab with the Duramax package. Bought it to pull my 6800# travel trailer. Tows wonderfully. Diesel is the right powertrain for towing. Can cruise at highway speed so I don't become a rolling road block. Around town the ride reminds you that this is a heavy duty truck but no complaints as it is very comfortable on highway and when towing. Having enough truck makes trips enjoyable not a 'white knuckle'

See all 2 reviews Write a review