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:

• 

  Love my truck, hate fuel mileage - 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By chad smith - September 29 - 2:00 am

  I love my new diesel. Plenty of power no need for aftermarket chips. Rides great. Looks great. Pulls great, but the fuel mileage is terrible. 13 mpg is the best I get. It has been four months now. I have 15,000 miles on it and cannot get any better mileage. With the price of fuel ($4.15) it hurts when you pull up to the pump

• 

  tow monster - 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By scubajohn - September 22 - 2:00 am

  this truck is great if you want to tow large items, but really sucks up the gas to just drive around

• 

  Chevy Duramax Diesel Rocks - 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Comab - September 17 - 10:00 am

  I had a 90 Chevy work truck then switched to the Ford F250 Super Duty. Now Im back to Chevy with the 2500HD 4X4 Diesel. I found what I was looking for; all the things that the Ford didnt have. Much more comfortable ride. The LB tracks wonderfully on the interstate at 80-85 mph. Better fuel economy.The diesel has lots of power and acceptable acceleration. Easy to get in and out of and also low enough to work out of. The plastic in the grill seems soft and easily scratches with bug impacts. The tires and wheels are purposely small to max out the torque, but they look too small for the truck. When washed and clean it gets positive stares.

• 

  Chevy Deisel - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Jams Anderson - September 13 - 12:53 pm

  I added a $300 chip and get 20mpg on the road and 16mpg around town. its amazing for a truck that large to have as much power, confort and gas economy. I will put it up next to a Ford or Dodge any day.

• 

  Too soon, but - 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By KanTex - September 11 - 5:53 pm

  Only 100 miles so far but truck performs really well. Ministry work includes pulling trailer next week. Will see how it does to pull. Build quality as far as seen today is outstanding. Ride comfy for a 3/4 ton. Great steering, road feel & seats better than my 06 Dodge. Motor really roars. Decent deal as 2011 models out soon. Prayer is for years of economical service.

• 

  Great truck - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By jeffghs - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Couldnt ask for much more. Compared to F-250s much quieter, more power, more room inside. This is a tough truck.

• 

  2005 2500HD First 3000 Miles - 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Don Underwood - September 5 - 4:13 pm

  Good basic work truck. This is a 2005 2500HD 4X4, regular cab, 6.0 w/manual trans. The manual transmission helps the fuel economy if you keep your foot light on the gas pedal. The first 3000 miles (first month) has been very satisfactory. Highway fuel economy is been slightly over 17 when running 2300 rpms or less. City average about 13.5. Weekly average of mixed hwy/city about 15. Towing (boat) at highway speeds about 13/14.

• 

  Chevy 2500HD LT Diesel - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Golden Eagle - September 1 - 11:00 am

  Very reliable truck. I have had this one for almost 7 years. The only problem is a mechanical dysfunction that was covered under the warranty at about 80,000 miles. Mileage is about 17-19/mpg. The diesel is louder than the newer models but still quiter than the competition from the same years. The 4WD has never acted up. All interior features are still working properly. Have not put any money into this truck since purchase except regular maintenance and tires. I could not have had a better truck over the last 7 years. Would like a new model, but with the cost, I will just keep this one going. It still looks new from the street and pulls like a train.

• 

  Duramax/Alison 2500HD 4x4 - 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By john_bud - August 23 - 10:00 am

  The 2500HD is head and shoulders above the 1500 in capabilities. Towing is much improved with the 6.6 diesel as is fuel economy unloaded (currently at 18.3 mpg all unloaded, I track all fuel use, miles and hours). Build quality has improved, with a better "feel" to the interior. The information center has been replaced with a truely informative data center. You can track all vehicle use, business vehicle use and personal vehicle use, by selecting options. Diesel sound is noticable but in no way objectionable. From the inside, you cant tell its a diesel.

• 

  Bowtie fantasy - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
  By Kevin - August 16 - 2:00 am

  This truck has the power and the payload to do anything that I want to do. I have the 8.1L gas engine with the 5 speed Allison and as long as you keep your foot off the pedal, you can get about 15 mpg in the city. It also looks very good.