2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD RWD Prices: MSRP vs Dealer Invoice vs True Dealer Cost w/ Holdback

If you are in the market for a powerful workhorse of a pick-up truck, then look no further than the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. This small heavy-duty truck is one of the more capable haulers on the road and offers a slightly more cost-effective alternative to the larger 3500HD. The 2500HD is jam-packed with creature comforts, has one of the most easy-to-use infotainment systems on the market, and offers up a refined ride quality. In fact, you will be hard-pressed to find a more well-rounded pick-up truck this year.

What's New For 2018?

The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD now comes with a standard rearview camera and 7-inch LCD touchscreen display. Additionally, there is now a tire fill alert feature that comes with the standard tire pressure monitor. A brand-new grille was designed for the High Country and Z71 trims, and there are now three more color options to choose from for the exterior.

Available Styles

The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is available as a small heavy-duty pick-up truck, slating just below the 3500HD. You can choose between three different cab styles (the regular, crew, and double cab) and a standard or long bed.

Available Trims

There are four different trim levels available for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. All of these trim levels come with a standard 6.0-L V8 engine that is capable of generating 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, which is matched up with a 6-speed automatic transmission. You can opt up for a 6.6-L V8 with a higher-powered 6-speed or slap a bi-fuel option onto the base engine. The base trim is known as the Work Truck (WT), and it comes with power locks, a tilt-only steering wheel, and vinyl upholstery. The LT trim comes with a remote-locking tailgate, a full array of power accessories, and cloth upholstery. The LTZ trim sits atop larger 18-inch wheels, and it features chic leather upholstery, a steering wheel that is tilt-and-telescoping, and a trailer brake controller for the 7-pin wiring harness. The line-topping High Country trim sits atop strong 20-inch wheels, has a built-in navigation system, and features upgraded leather upholstery for a more luxurious ride.

Driving Impressions

Upgrade to the 6.6-L diesel engine, and you won't regret your decision. This engine is able to pump out 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough power to provide the truck with excellent acceleration abilities. In fact, the 2500HD can get from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds, which is phenomenal for this class. Braking, however, is another story. Braking distances seem much longer than what is considered safe, and the pedal will go all the way down to the floor when you have to make a hard stop. Steering and handling are surprisingly good for such a large vehicle. The 2500HD is stable while driving straight and has a good steering ratio for stability while towing heavy loads. The truck doesn't get as much body roll as you might expect and fits into even tight parking spots with relative ease. Of course, the Z71 package can be added on, making the 2500HD suitable for off-roading.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is not the Silverado's strong suit. The 2500HD only gets 11 mpg city/16 mpg highway on the 2WD and 10 mpg city/15 mpg highway on the 4WD models. If you are looking for something that won't drain your bank account at the pump, the 2500HD just isn't it.

The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is every ounce a workhorse, but the higher the trim level gets, the more luxurious it feels. While braking certainly needs improvement, the rest of the 2500HD's performance is pretty spot-on.

How to Calculate The Dealer Cost of a Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:

• Example: Base Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD invoice price + the dealer Invoice price of all the options + destination - Holdback = Total Dealer Cost.
• What is Holdback? A hidden amount that manufacturers give back to a dealer. It is a percentage of the MSRP or the Invoice price.

Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)

Note: All Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.

A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.