The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is a behemoth that's capable of completing some of the most taxing jobs without breaking a sweat. With the ability to tow up to 23,300 pounds, there's little that can stop the 3500HD from getting the job done. While the 3500HD is a heavy-duty machine, it can be fitted with features that rival bespoke luxury vehicles.
What's New for 2018
The base WT model now comes with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system that can be controlled through a seven-inch touchscreen. Single-rear-wheel models that have a GVWR weight below 10,000 lbs. have a tire pressure monitor system that includes tire fill alert. Opting for a model with a cargo box brings a rearview camera to the pickup as standard. Lastly, the 3500HD gets some new paint schemes and a new grille mesh design for the High Country and Z71 trims.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
Just like before, the 3500HD is available in numerous configurations. The Regular Cab only has two doors and offers seating for two or three. The Double Cab layout has a set of narrow rear doors and a full-length backseat. The Crew Cab variant has full-size rear doors and more rear legroom. The Regular Cab and Double Cab models come with an eight-foot bed. The Crew Cab versions can be fitted with an eight-foot bed or a 6.6-foot bed. Each variant is available as a single-rear-wheel model and a dual-rear-wheel variant.
The 3500HD is available with three different powertrains. The base motor is a 6.0-liter V8 engine that produces 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The engine is capable of running on E85, while consumers can also opt for a bi-fuel variant of the motor that can run on compressed natural gas (CNG).
For maximum torque and towing capability, the 3500HD can be fitted with a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that's good for 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired to an Allison 1000 six-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard for all 3500HD models, while four-wheel drive is available for an additional $3,000 across the board.
With the 6.0-liter V8, the 3500HD is rated to tow up to 14,600 lbs. Move up to the 6.6-liter diesel V8 motor and that figure swells to 23,300 lbs. Payload capacity for the pickup ranges from 3,821 lbs. to 7,153 lbs.
The Silverado 3500HD is available in four different trims: WT, LT, LTZ, and High Country.
The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is offered in various trims with numerous options to help you get into the perfect model. While the WT trim isn't as bare bones as it used to be, the LT is the sweet spot when it comes to features and pricing. The Driver Alert Package adds some of the latest safety features and, thanks to the front and rear park assist, makes the pickup a little less cumbersome to drive. Of course, if towing upwards of 20,000 lbs. on a regular basis seems like overkill, the 2500HD, with its maxing towing figure of 18,100 lbs., might make more sense.