Overview & Reviews

Though "HD" is a fixture in our digital-age parlance, rest assured that the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD does not, in fact, involve a television. In this case we're talking about the old-fashioned meaning of HD: "Heavy Duty." The Silverado 2500HD is a true workhorse meant for big-league towing and hauling tasks, even if the latest model does offer an HD-quality 8-inch touchscreen.

Indeed, the current-generation Silverado 2500HD has easily the nicest interior yet. For years, Chevy trucks were rebuked for their lackluster cabins filled with hard plastics and poor fit and finish, but this criticism now only applies to earlier 2500HD models. Nonetheless, it will always be this truck's durability and tremendous workaday capabilities that keep generations of Chevy loyalists coming back to the gold bowtie. For an intermediate heavy-duty pickup, new or used, it's hard to go wrong with the Silverado 2500HD.

Current Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The current Silverado 2500HD has been redesigned for the 2015 model year. It borrows its vastly improved interior from the latest Silverado 1500; similarly, its numerous new features and revised exterior styling are inspired by its lighter-duty sibling. Like the previous 2500HD, the current model is available in regular-, extended- or crew cab body styles, with a long or short cargo box and rear- or four-wheel drive. Note that the extended cab is now known as the "double cab" and employs four conventional doors (like a smaller crew cab) rather than the former reverse-opening rear doors.

The powertrain options carry over from the previous generation, meaning a 6.0-liter V8 with 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque comes standard. As before, a "bi-fuel" option allows this V8 to run on compressed natural gas (CNG), with CNG output dropping to 301 hp and 333 lb-ft. Either way, a six-speed automatic transmission handles the shifting. The available diesel engine is the familiar 6.6-liter Duramax V8 (397 hp, 765 lb-ft), paired with an exclusive Allison six-speed automatic.

The double and crew cab body styles are offered in three trim levels -- Work Truck, LT and LTZ -- while the regular cab can only be had in Work Truck and LT trims. In terms of standard equipment, the Work Truck gets a few unprecedented perks, such as cloth upholstery, cruise control and an audio system with a 4.2-inch color display and USB connectivity. It also continues to provide basics like a front bench seat, steel wheels, a tilt-only steering wheel and air-conditioning. The LT adds alloy wheels, tinted glass, heated power mirrors, an "EZ-Lift and Lower" tailgate, OnStar, MyLink smartphone integration, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio. The LTZ boasts larger wheels, foglights, extended chrome trim, an automatic locking rear differential, a power-sliding rear window, towing preparation, leather upholstery (with optional power front bucket seats), heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera and an 8-inch MyLink touchscreen.

As usual, some of the fancier standard features can be added to lower trims as options. Other extras include power-adjustable pedals, front and rear parking sensors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a heated steering wheel, Bose audio and the Z71 Off-Road package with special suspension components. A new offering is the High Country package, which emulates high-end rival models with saddle-brown leather and basically every premium feature in the order guide. The 2500HD also gains high-tech safety options like lane-departure warning and forward-collision alert.

With its carryover engines, the latest Silverado 2500HD offers only incremental progress on the towing and hauling fronts. Of course, the previous model was already an absolute beast, so it makes sense that Chevy would focus on other areas. In particular, the interior is a revolutionary improvement -- even the Work Truck dashboard looks respectable now, while the LTZ's leather trim and 8-inch touchscreen would do a luxury SUV proud. We used to bag on the 2500HD for its chintzy cabin, but now it's fully competitive in this respect. We also like the new double cab with its four normal doors; it's a "Why didn't they think of that before?" kind of idea. Throw in the epic, time-tested Duramax diesel, and you've got an all-around winner that's hard to beat. Things change quickly in this segment, though, so be sure to keep tabs on the latest from Ford and Ram as well.

Used Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Models
The previous-generation Silverado 2500HD was produced for the 2007-'14 model years with either rear- or four-wheel drive. The standard engine was a 6.0-liter V8 initially rated at 353 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 made 365 hp and 660 lb-ft. The gas V8 inched up to 360 hp and 380 lb-ft for 2010; meanwhile, the Duramax was overhauled for 2011 with 397 hp and 765 lb-ft. All 2500HD models of this generation were equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, but the diesel got a stronger one (not that the standard unit was exactly a weakling) with manual shift control.

For 2013 and '14 only, buyers could add a bi-fuel option that allows the 6.0-liter V8 to run on either gasoline or CNG. When operating with CNG, power output drops to 301 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque.

This Silverado 2500HD offered three different cab designs -- regular, extended and crew -- until 2014, when the extended cab was dropped. The extended cab utilized a traditional "clamshell" design with reverse-opening rear doors. There were three trim levels: Work Truck, LT and LTZ. The Work Truck started with basics like manual accessories and vinyl seating, though air-conditioning was also made standard as of 2011. The LT added luxuries like chrome exterior trim, alloy wheels, full power accessories, cruise control, cloth upholstery and upgraded audio, with optional dual-zone automatic climate control and front bucket seats. The fancy LTZ threw in the LT's standard and optional features plus leather upholstery, Bose audio, keyless entry and ignition, an upgraded dashboard, heated power front seats and rear audio controls. Options included a rear-seat entertainment system, a sunroof, a navigation system and the Z71 Off-Road package.

In an Edmunds.com comparison test of heavy-duty pickups, the mechanically identical GMC Sierra HD of this generation came out on top against its Dodge and Ford competitors. Though we found its cabin less inviting than the others, the recently revised frame, suspension and diesel engine proved hard to beat. As such, a used Silverado 2500HD from this era makes for a great used truck. Its capabilities remain formidable, and depreciation can deliver one to your driveway for a fraction of what it cost new.

Even though its appearance remained largely unchanged, this 2500HD saw some significant changes during its run. The 2011 model received a stronger, fully boxed frame, beefier suspension components and additional electronic aids, so that's something to keep in mind when looking at previous years. As noted above, the engines were also updated along the way. Other changes were minor, including an optional rearview camera for 2009 and hard-drive-based functionality for the navigation system in 2011.

The preceding Silverado 2500HD was sold from 2001-'06 in configurations much like those of its successors. It lived on for one additional year in '07 as the "Classic." These trucks came in standard, Work Truck (after 2003), LS and LT trim levels. The standard engine was a 6.0-liter V8 that made 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. There were two optional engines: an 8.1-liter gasoline V8 producing 340 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque and a 6.6-liter turbodiesel producing 300 hp and 520 lb-ft. This diesel was upgraded in 2006 for more power (360 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque), added refinement and fewer emissions. These engines carried over for the Classic.

A five-speed manual transmission was standard with the 6.0-liter V8, with a four-speed automatic optional. The 8.1-liter V8 and the 6.6-liter diesel came with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic, which became a six-speed for 2006.

As with subsequent Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD models, we were impressed at the time by this generation's powerful engine lineup and substantial towing and hauling abilities. It was a reasonably comfortable truck for everyday use, but it predictably lacked the plush ride of its light-duty siblings. Any of the three available engines will provide capable acceleration and ample towing power, but the diesel V8 is the best choice for those who tow heavy loads -- especially the more powerful Duramax from '06. Our principal beef concerned the subpar interior design, materials and build quality. Chevy improved it gradually during its lifespan, including notable updates for '03, but it was never quite up to snuff.

Prior to this, Chevrolet heavy-duty pickups ran from 1988-2000 and were simply known as the 2500 (3/4-ton) and 3500 (1-ton). In keeping with tradition, one could choose either rear-wheel drive (indicated by a "C", e.g. "C2500") or four-wheel drive (indicated by a "K"). Trim levels for these C/K2500 trucks included the base Cheyenne and top-line Silverado, which changed to base and LS for 1999. Strengths of these trucks include strong, durable powertrains, while weaknesses center on sketchy build quality and materials within the cabin.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By jdaniell - July 16 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Chevy and I am very impressed. I drove the Dodge and Ford and the Chevy was much quieter (Duramax Diesel) and the proformance was better than that of the Dodge. Very pleased with my new truck.

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  SILVER BULLET - (DURAMAX / ALLISON) - 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Big AL - July 15 - 11:36 am

  Traded a great 04 Loaded LS Crew Cab SWB 4x4 W/LB7 D-Max & Allison in for Loaded LS Extended Cab 4x4 W/LLY D-MAX & Allison. Ride is much firmer, but this truck is 10" shorter than my other truck; therefore the reason for the firmer ride. I think the extended cab SWB in the 2500HDs look better than the rest, but this is soley my opinion. My LLY is getting 2 MPG (17.1 HWY)less than the LB7 was(19.2 HWY). Still decent MPG for a 402 CID engine. If you plan on keeping the truck for a long period of time or if you drive many miles yearly, get the D-MAX, either with auto or standard transmission. Overall, it will cost you less at the pumps than the gas engines, will last longer & have a higher resale.

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  Four wheeling fun - 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By wadester - July 13 - 5:20 pm

  I already own an 03 2500 hd with the 6.0. It has been trouble free for 106,000 miles. Bought an 05 F-250 Powerstroke and had nothing but problems and happy to say I have traded for the 09 2500 Z71. The truck is tight in its handling. My 03 has 4:10 gears and pulls like a mule. I opted for 3:73 rear end on this one for better fuel mileage. The suspension is tight yet not jarring like my f-250 though both are 4x4s. The back seat could be a little roomier as I have two children in car seats, and with front seat at furthest position the car seats are cramped. It is very quiet whether on black top or concrete and the head room is ample for me as I am 64".

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  Whats not to like - 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By DEON - June 22 - 7:36 am

  Good strong truck. Will buy another. But I will miss that 496 C.I.D.

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  2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LTZ 4dr Extended Cab 4WD - 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By dvo222 - May 12 - 3:25 am

  I have over 10,000 miles on my gas truck now. I average around 13 to 14 in town and 18 at 70 mph(Im 56 years old). I pulled a 5000 lb sailboat from Texas to Georgia at 60 and 65 and got 13 miles per gallon. I purchased the 2500 over the 1500 because of price. Between the factory rebate and the credit union rebate the price came in at $10,000 less than the 1500. Something very noticeable is the difference in the power (and it sounds good). I average 5000 miles a year on the trucks I have owned. So the fuel economy doesn really concern me. A little stiff ride but it is a 2500 4x4. The interior is very comfortable and well built.

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  Love my HD Crew - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Mike Mem - May 6 - 11:03 am

  Ive only driven 1100 miles. The ride is as good as our S-Blazer or even our Accord. Even with BFG ATs it has a quiet ride (much better than the Accord). Lots of room in the back seat for passengers. The engine has good power but you always wonder how much better the 8.1 or Duramax would be if I would have been willing to pay the price. The biggest downside is the size of a big truck like this. Im glad I have other cars to take into a parking terrace.

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  snowplow problems - 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By snowplow - May 5 - 11:16 pm

  Have an on going problem when trying to plow with this truck.It loses amperage so bad I can not pick the plow up until I shut the truck off and wait a bit before restarting.They put on a new voltage regulator,new computer etc.When the mechanic called the GM rep and discussed this with him he said there was nothing wrong.I make a living with my truck and have had 12+ Chevys over the years with no problems,this is ridiculous.I feel I am being pushed aside because they dont know whats wrong yet.

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  Great Chevy Diesel!! - 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By HB - April 5 - 10:00 am

  My first diesel, and a great one. I am a Hot Shot driver and travel all types of roads and conditions all over the country. It is my home away from home. People come up to me whenever I stop for fuel and start a conversation regarding my truck. The fuel mileage is good, 17 to 18 mpg average. The ride is comfortable. I will purchase another Chevy when this one wears out...many years down the road.

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  Mileage Stinks - 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Jdgrn4ever - March 14 - 11:43 pm

  Having owned a 01 Duramax, I have to say that Im very disappointed with my 05. Having averaged 22 mpg with my 01, going down to 15 mpg with my 05 is very disturbing. Coupled with the fact that my dealership is encouraging me to purchase an after- market performance chip in the hopes that the mileage may improve 3 or 4 mpg. The trucks ride is much better than a Ford or a Dodge. However, personally, I liked the styling of my 01 better. With the slant-eyed headlights, it would seem that the final design of the 05 front-end came out of Hong Kong. If you dont mind spending 1/2 of your time at the gas station, buy a new Chevy Duramax. Else, do what I am ... consider buying a Ford.

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  Sheldon Richards - 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By sheldon richards - March 3 - 2:16 pm

  The positives are the room for six people, especially with a family. I like the lifted hood design and the fog lamps are awesome (however I get brighted a lot from oncoming traffic)! The wind noise in WY, does make it a little noisy down the interstate. Feel safe driving it. Although the extended mirrors are nice, they vibrate so bad that you cannot see out of them going down the highway (even on a smooth highway). Had some difficulties with the mirrors sticking in retract mode. Gas mileage is TERRIBLE! Averaging 11.7 miles per gallon. I have used 1,100 gallons of fuel since April, with approximately 13,000 miles on it, not pulling any weight.