A Complete Review of the Chevrolet Silverado 2500

April 27th, 2023 by

Everything you need to know about the 2017–2022 models

Are you considering a pre-owned Chevrolet Silverado 2500 for your next heavy-duty pickup truck? If your answer is “yes”, then you’re in the right place. Here, we’ve included everything you’ll need to make an informed decision about whether or not this truck is the one for you.

Table of Contents

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Scorecard

Rated by the expert team of vehicle specialists at Merchants Auto, this scorecard reflects the Silverado 2500’s performance when compared to other full-size trucks.

Overall, we find that the Chevy Silverado is a decent value when it comes to safety, reliability, and performance.

Interior – 7/10
Performance – 7.5/10
Safety – 8.8/10
Reliability – 8.5/10
Fuel economy – 7.5/10
Value – 6.5/10
Overall rating – 7/10

Pros & Cons of a Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Interior Features

used Chevrolet Silverado 2500

The exact features in a Chevrolet Silverado 2500 will vary depending on the model year and trim level. You’ll also notice additional features for model years 2020 and up — these were added as part of the 2020 redesign.

Note: The 2020, 2021, and 2022 models also include many of the features found in the three earlier models.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Performance Features

used Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Engines

For model years 2020-2022, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 offers two different engine types:

Gas-powered 6.6 liter V8
Duramax Diesel 6.6 liter V8

The gas engine comes standard with 401 horsepower as well as 464 pound-feet of torque. If you’re looking for more power or to tow heavier loads, the optional diesel engine is the better choice (445 horsepower with 910 pound-feet of torque).

Gas Mileage

Based on real-world mileage tests, newer gas-powered Silverado models average 14 miles per gallon on the highway, while the diesel versions perform slightly better at 19 miles per gallon.

Ride & Handling

The Silverado’s impressive power and smooth transmission make for a controlled driving experience, both unladen and while towing large loads on steep grades.

Towing Capacity

When it comes to the upper limits of what your Silverado can tow, the final weight depends on its engine. Gas-powered models can tow up to 17,400 pounds while their diesel counterparts can handle loads of up to 36,000 pounds.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Safety Features

used Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Silverados from model years 2017, 2018, and 2019 all earned a 4/5 safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Currently, safety data from the NHTSA and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is unavailable for model years 2019 and beyond.

As for built-in safety features, newer models offer three different packages:

  • Safety Confidence Package
    For Work Truck and Custom trims. This package includes automatic emergency braking and a larger driver information display.
  • Safety Package
    For LT and LTZ trims. This package includes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and front and rear parking sensors.
  • Safety Package II
    For LTZ and High Country trims. This package includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high beam assist.

And for features that come standard? The Silverado is equipped with anti-lock brakes; electronic stability control; front, side, and overhead airbags; and seatbelt pretensioners.

How Does the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Rank?

Rankings vary from year to year, but these are some of the standouts for the Silverado:

  • The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 ranked #2 on J.D. Power’s list of best full-sized trucks of the year.
  • The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 was named Pickup Truck of the Year by Cars.com.
  • The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 was named the Best Large Heavy Duty Pickup of the year by J.D. Power.
  • The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 was ranked #1 in its class for dependability by J.D. Power.
  • The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 ranked #1 on J.D. Power’s list of quality large heavy-duty pickup trucks.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Model Comparison

To give you a better idea of how each model year differs, here’s a breakdown of the Silverado’s more recent versions, by year and trim.

Note: Features included in lower trim levels are also included in the list of features for higher trim levels. For example, LT trucks include their unique set of features in addition to the ones included at the Work Truck level. Custom includes its own plus the LT and Work Truck features, etc.

2022 Chevrolet Silverado

For this model year, changes from the 2021 version are minimal and most notably include a new paint color, the option to add a power-adjustable seat to the Custom trim, and making the Multi-Flex tailgate an available option for all Silverado HD models.

Key features remain similar to the 2021 model year.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Note: This year’s features carry over from 2020. Think of the features column below as inclusive of the list from the previous year plus the noted additions.

2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Model years 2017-2019

Since the Silverado 2500 underwent a complete redesign for 2020, it’s easier to compare these model years separately — each truck has similar features.

In terms of price, the original MSRP ranges from $34,905 to $56,160 for 2017 to between $38,200 and $55,700 for 2019. That said, if you’re in the market for any of these model years, you’ll most likely pay less since your options will be from pre-owned stock.

Is the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 a Good Truck?

There’s a reason why Chevrolet has a loyal brand following: They make quality, reliable vehicles that get the job done, and that includes the Silverado 2500.

With the redesign in 2020, Chevy introduced upgraded powertrains, strengthened chassis, higher towing capacity, and some cutting-edge tech features (like the 15-view camera system, which among other benefits, gives drivers the ability to “see through” the trailer).

In addition to getting high customer ratings, this truck also consistently finds itself on best-of lists.

Should I Buy a Chevrolet Silverado 2500?

used Chevrolet Silverado 2500

If you’re looking for a solid truck with good value, the Silverado 2500 could be a good option. However, if you’re looking for top-of-class towing and payload performance, you may want to consider other options, such as the Ram 2500, GMC Sierra, or Ford F-250.

Something else to consider: for 2021 and 2022, J.D. Power named the Chevy Silverado 2500 the heavy-duty pickup truck with the best resale value.

Cost of a Chevrolet Silverado 2500

What you’ll pay for a Chevy Silverado 2500 depends on a few different factors. Model year, trim level, and whether the truck is used or new will all impact the purchase price.

For a pre-owned Silverado 2500, prices range from $21,000 to upwards of $75,000.

The MSRP for a 2022 Silverado ranges from $41,295 for the base Work Truck trim up to $68,745 for the top-tier High Country.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Insurance

Just like insuring any vehicle, the premium for a Silverado 2500 will vary depending on a number of factors. Some of the variables that can affect the amount you’ll pay for insurance are:

  • Driver’s age, gender, and marital status
  • Driving record
  • Make, model, and year of the vehicle
  • Annual mileage
  • State requirements
  • Credit history
  • Where the vehicle is regularly parked
  • The vehicle’s safety features
  • Type of insurance coverage
  • Deductible

The good news? Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to save with popular auto discounts. These can include:

  • Safe driving records
  • Good student
  • New customer
  • Automatic payment
  • Anti-lock brakes and other safety features

According to CarEdge, auto insurance for a Chevy Silverado 2500HD will cost about $1,918 per year, which is $307 less than the national average for popular heavy-duty models.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 vs. the Competition

So, how exactly does the Silverado stack up against the competition? When compared with similar trucks in its class — the Ram 2500, GMC Sierra, and Ford F-250 — the Silverado 2500 can hold its own, even if it can’t outrank them in terms of towing capacity and interior design.

Where the Silverado really shines is in its use of technology through a more robust base offering and superb trailer-assistance system. Additionally, the Silverado isn’t as much of an investment and makes a good option if you’re in the market for a high-performing vehicle but shopping with a lower budget.

Additionally, Forbes listed the Silverado 2500 in its list of the best heavy-duty trucks for 2022.

Find Your Next Chevrolet Silverado 2500 With Merchants Auto

If you’re considering a pre-owned Chevrolet Silverado 2500 (or any type of heavy-duty pickup truck), we can help! Merchants Auto is the largest pre-owned dealership in New Hampshire that’s also been in operation for more than 60 years.

The inventory on our 26-acre lot is always changing. We have hundreds of vehicles to choose from with more than 30 different makes — including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, pickups, sports cars, fuel-efficient models, compact cars, and work vans.

We strive to save our customers time and money, and our ultimate goal is to provide an enjoyable and hassle-free car buying experience.

Ready to get started? View our Used Chevy Silverado 2500 inventory now!

Posted in Models, Used Cars