2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

header-image
$35,300 - $63,300
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on January 31, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Athletic V8 engine

Compromised safety features

New available features

Refined drivetrain

Lack of steering feedback

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Impressive towing capacity

Unimpressive cabin

Advanced trailer-assist features

Specs & Features

$39,500

price

401 hp @ 5200 rpm

horsepower

464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

torque

6-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

6.6L 8cyl RWD 6AM

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Chevy had been underestimated in the heavy-duty pickup list for all the past years. Be it in power or performance or amenities, the Silverado couldn’t keep up the reputation of the brand and performed unimpressively on the sales records too. However, the 2021 model is going to be mostly a carryover one as it got completely redesigned last year. The new 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD comes with slight changes and updates and stands strongly against the massive rivals.

Buying Advice

Both the trims serve the purpose they are made for. While the Work Truck focuses more on work and utility, the LT trim adds a bit towards comfort and luxury. Thus, buying the LT trim would be more sensible as it would give a pleasant space to drive and live in without compromising performance. The LT trim is offered at quite a balanced budget and would be a viable choice if your budget is expandable. 

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Additions in the 2021 model year include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless integration along with some new appearance packages. The energetic and athletic V8 motor under the hood churns out 401 horses, making the truck highly capable. The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab starts from $35,300 and stands against the likes of the Ford F-250 SuperDuty Regular Cab, GMC Sierra 2500HD Regular Cab, and RAM 2500 Regular Cab.

Features

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab comes in 2 trim levels with a standard 142-inch long bed configuration. The two trim levels are named Work Truck and LT. The base trim Work Truck is basically bare bones and comes equipped with basic features and nothing exciting to ponder upon. It is equipped with the 6.6L V8 gas engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. However, the LT trim adds more sophistication by including more features and tech tweaks. It gets an LCD monitor, heated mirrors, Satellite Radio, remote keyless entry, and many more. While the base Work Truck trim is offered at a starting price of $35,300, the LT trim takes it to more than $42,200 for the 4WD variant. 

Trim

Work Truck

LT

MSRP (2WD)

$35,300

$39,400

MSRP (4WD)

$38,100

$42,200

Key Features

Vinyl Seats

Cruise control

 

17" Painted-Steel Wheels 

17” machined aluminum wheels

 

Chevrolet lettered grille

Cloth upholstery

 

Single-zone manual air conditioning (front)

SiriusXM Satellite Radio

 

Chevrolet Infotainment System with 7-inch diagonal color touch-screen

Chrome, front and rear bumpers

 

Rear Vision Camera

Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with 8-inch diagonal color touch-screen,

 

Two USB ports on the instrument panel

4.2-inch Driver Information Center 

Which trim should you buy?

Both the trims serve the purpose they are made for. While the Work Truck focuses more on work and utility, the LT trim adds a bit towards comfort and luxury. Thus, buying the LT trim would be more sensible as it would give a pleasant space to drive and live in without compromising performance. The LT trim is offered at quite a balanced budget and would be a viable choice if your budget is expandable. 

Fuel Economy
7.0/10

Heavy-duty pickup trucks are not bought for high MPG figures, neither do the buyers bother much about the efficiency as these vehicles are meant to haul heavy cargo around. The highly capable motor of the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab producing higher torque gives lesser efficiency figures. EPA generally does not rate these trucks for their MPG figures. Unofficial reports say that the previous year's model of the Silverado 2500HD delivers 12 MPG combined for the gas engine and 15 MPG for the Duramax diesel. The Silverado gets the class-leading 36-gallon fuel tank, which would be promising when it comes to the range figures. 

Models

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab WT

2021 Ford SuperDuty F-250 Regular Cab XL

2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD Regular Cab 

2021 RAM 2500 Regular Cab

MPG (City)

N/A

N/A

N/A

10

MPG (Highway)

14

15

14

15

MPG (Combined)

12

N/A

12

N/A

Fuel Capacity (Gallons)

36.0

34.0

36.0

32.0

Range (Highway- in Miles)

504

510

504

480

The efficiency figures of any of them aren’t available. Being heavy-duty trucks, the combined efficiency is expected to be around 13 mpg for all of these machines, and none of them would excel very much in the efficiency segment. However, with the biggest gallon tank capacity, we expect the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra to have better overall range on a full tank fuel fill, while the Ford is found to be marginally better on the highway. 

Interior
7.5/10

The interior of the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab is well-laid and neat. However, the material within feels cheaper and low quality for the price. The things inside are intuitive, minimalistic, and neat in looks. The dashboard is ergonomic and easy to sort out. The controls are easy to reach for the driver. The base trim itself gets a 4-way power-adjustable driver seat as standard. The cabin is plentifully spacious and airy. Moreover, the Regular Cab seats 3 people comfortably without any congestion. 

The roofline is high above, which makes it possible even for the tallest fellows to fit their heads in and have some further headroom. The tall roofline also ensures good visibility from the cabin. Obviously, it aids easy entry and exit from the cabin too. The Silverado gets two-bed size choices, one is 6.8 feet long and the other is 8.2 feet. You get the long box as standard with the Regular Cab, which offers 83.5 cubic feet of cargo space. You also get enough space within the cabin to hold your stuff like a glove box, cup holders, and door pockets to keep your stuff.

Models

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab WT

2021 Ford SuperDuty F-250 Regular Cab XL

2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD Regular Cab 

2021 RAM 2500 Regular Cab

Seating Capacity

3

3

3

3

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

43.1/66.1/44.5

40.8/66.7/43.9

43.1/66.1/44.5

39.8/65.9/40.9

Cargo Capacity (cu-ft)

83.5

78.5

83.5

74.7

The Silverado is the most spacious in the seating department along with the GMC Sierra. Being Regular Cabs, all pickup trucks in question can seat 3 people as standard. The GM twins come equipped with a longer bed which puts their cargo capacity at the top of the lot. But they come with an outdated-looking interior compared to the others. The RAM 2500 comes with the lowest cargo capacity in the competition. Standout interior features inside the 2021 Chevy Silverado 2500HD include:

  • 4-way power-adjustable driver seat
  • 40/20/40 split-bench seats
  • Covered armrest storage
  • 6-gauge instrument cluster
  • Power windows with express up/down
  • Single-zone air conditioning

What’s there to keep you entertained?

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab gets a centrally-placed 7-inch touchscreen display mounted within the dashboard in the base trim which could be upgraded to a slightly larger 8-inch unit in the LT trim. The AC vents are placed on either side of the infotainment screen. The screen shall be controlled via physical buttons and knobs around the console.

The system is loaded with modern connectivity features including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. The LT trim also gets a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and Chevrolet Connect Access. A 2 speaker audio system is paired with the infotainment system, which couldn’t be upgraded as this one is the Regular Cab version. Standout infotainment features include:

  • 7-inch touchscreen display
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • 2-speaker sound system
  • Two USB Ports
  • Chevrolet Connected Access
  • Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot
  • SiriusXM – All Access Package with a 3-month trial subscription

Exterior
7.6/10

The exterior looks of the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab are too close to the predecessors. It looks sharp and stylish enough. The aggressive front design and the massive grille make it desirably attractive. The big and bold Chevy badging on the black horizontal bar gives a lift for the face. Halogen headlamps are an option on both WT and LT trims. 17” wheels are standard on the truck, which can be upgraded to 18” or 20” on higher trim.

The truck is hefty and enormous. It has a long and wide body with tall stature. The truck gets a massive ground clearance of 10.19 inches, which is the best in the class. The body is made tough and robust, which is well reflected in its looks. The bigger dimensions surely impose troubles on maneuverability, but that is common for any such heavy-duty truck.

Models

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab WT

2021 Ford SuperDuty F-250 Regular Cab XL

2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD Regular Cab 

2021 RAM 2500 Regular Cab

Curb weight (lbs)

6,105

5,677

6,105

5,989

Length (inches)

235.5

231.8

235.5

232.0

Width (Inches)

81.8

80.0

81.80

79.4

Height (Inches)

79.9

78.9

79.9

78.0

Ground clearance (inches)

10.2

8.7

10.2

7.3

Wheelbase (inches)

141.55

142

141.55

140.5

The Ford F-250 SuperDuty is the lightest in the segment, followed by RAM 2500. The Chevy and GMC are the heaviest, longest, and tallest with the class-leading ground clearance. Ford is shorter in length but enjoys a large wheelbase. Based on looks, none of them has an edge over the other as all of them follow the same boring design language. Standout exterior features of the Silverado 2500HD are the following:

  • 17” machined aluminum wheels
  • Corner Step (rear bumper)
  • Chrome front grille bar with brand badging
  • Headlamps, optional halogen
  • Halogen DRLs
  • Power-adjustable heated outside mirrors with integrated turn indicators

Safety
8.9/10

Heavy-duty trucks are not rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. So, the crash test ratings from either aren’t available for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab. However, the redesigned body makes the truck a safe place to be in. The sturdy and rigid body has the capability to withstand any serious crashes on the roads. The new chassis and structural elements make it safer than it was for the previous years. The safety features offered by the Chevy Silverado aren’t too impressive. You get the standard StabiliTrak Stability Control System with Proactive Roll Avoidance and traction control, electronic trailer sway control, and hill start assist. You’ll also get a rear vision camera. Standout safety features include:

  • StabiliTrak Stability Control System
  • HD Rear Vision Camera
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
  • Forward Collision Alert
  • Trailer Hitch Guidance
  • Advanced Trail-Assist system

Competition
9.0/10

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab vs 2021 Ford F-250 SuperDuty Regular Cab

The 2021 Silverado 2500HD is a more capable and easy choice over the Ford F-250. The Chevy offers a more torquey powertrain, spacious interiors, and better dimensions than the Ford. However, the Ford F-250 masters the towing capacity over the Silverado. After all, considering all the aspects, it would be wise to choose the Silverado over the F-250 SuperDuty.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab vs 2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD Regular Cab

Built and sold by the same parent company, both these are equally capable and preferable. However, the GMC Sierra is built more appealing with striking exteriors and complementing interiors. The Silverado 2500HD is more work-focussed and would suit any buyer easily. The manufacturer wisely keeps Silverado for those buyers who prefer a tough work truck and Sierra for those who demand comfort and sophistication along with work.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab vs 2021 RAM 2500 Regular Cab

The RAM 2500 is an aggressive, striking, and stylish truck with high towing capacity. However, the Silverado 2500HD is a step ahead with better amenities and tech tweaks. It offers more modern features like the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Here the choice lies in the hands of the buyers. If you prefer looks and towing, then RAM would be your choice, while if you need some tech inside and a spacious cabin to move forth, then the Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab is for you.

Final Verdict

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab is one of the best releases that Chevy has had in the truck segment. With immense capability, athletic engine, and powertrain, it outshines its rivals easily. The 2021 model now gets a better interior, more advanced infotainment features, and power. The Duramax Diesel V8 has been a true blessing to many buyers. Doubtlessly, the 2021 Silverado 2500HD Regular Cab is one of the best choices one has in the segment.

Trims

    Work Truck
    $35,300 onwards
    • 1St row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Am/Fm/Satellite-Prep, seek-scan Radio
    • Manual front air conditioning
    • Vinyl Seat trim
    LT
    $39,400 onwards
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • Cloth Seat trim
    • Heated mirrors
    • Remote keyless entry
    Custom
    $39,700 onwards
    • Engine: 6.6L 8cyl RWD 6AM
    • Horsepower: 401 hp @ 5200 rpm hp
    • Torque: 464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.9 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: -
    LTZ
    $49,500 onwards
    • Engine: 6.6L 8cyl RWD 6AM
    • Horsepower: 401 hp @ 5200 rpm hp
    • Torque: 464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.4 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: -
    High Country
    $63,100 onwards
    • Engine: 6.6L 8cyl 4WD 6AM
    • Horsepower: 401 hp @ 5200 rpm hp
    • Torque: 464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.4 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: -

Compare to similar cars

Price

$35,795- $67,885

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.66

Horsepower

410 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque

429 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

Capacity

-

Read Review

$30,100- $61,190

Gasoline

8.1

285 hp @ 5300 rpm

305 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

3

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$36,500- $65,700

Gasoline

7.87

401 hp @ 5200 rpm

464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

3

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$29,300- $64,195

Gasoline

7.48

285 hp @ 5300 rpm

305 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

3

Read Review

$34,230- $84,390

Gasoline

7.87

385 hp @ 5750 rpm

430 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm

-

Read Review

$35,300- $63,300

Gasoline

7.67

401 hp @ 5200 rpm

464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

6

Read Review

$34,095- $66,335

Gasoline

7.62

370 hp @ 2800 rpm

429 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

3

Read Review

$35,745- $87,375

Gasoline

7.82

385 hp @ 5750 rpm

430 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm

3

Read Review

$37,100- $67,500

Gasoline

8.26

401 hp @ 5200 rpm

464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

3

Read Review

$35,900- $65,100

Gasoline

7.98

401 hp @ 5200 rpm

464 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

3

Read Review

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    6.9 sec--
    6 sec14.5 sec-
    6.5 sec--
    6.6 sec15.2 sec-
    2021 RAM 2500

    Ranked #5

    7.2 sec15.3 sec-
    7.5 sec--

    2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      ---36 gal.-
      20 mpg21 mpg17 mpg28.3 gal.448/588 mi.
      15 mpg21 mpg17 mpg28 gal.448/588 mi.
      ---36 gal.-
      ---36 gal.-
      2021 RAM 3500

      Ranked #2

      ---32 gal.- -

      2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        235.5 in.81.75 in.79.94 in.10.2 in.141.55 in.
        235.5 in.81.75 in.79.94 in.10.2 in.141.55 in.
        235.5 in.81.75 in.80.94 in.11.2 in.141.55 in.
        235.5 in.81.75 in.80.9 in.11.2 in.141.6 in.
        2021 RAM 2500

        Ranked #2

        232 in.79.4 in.80.2 in.13.1 in.140.5 in.
        2021 RAM 3500

        Ranked #2

        232 in.79.4 in.79.5 in.13.3 in.140 in.

        2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          83.5 cu.ft.119.7 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.
          83.5 cu.ft.-137.4 cu.ft.
          11.6 cu.ft.98 cu.ft.44.1 cu.ft.
          89.1 cu.ft.-89.1 cu.ft.
          89.1 cu.ft.39.8 cu.ft.89.1 cu.ft.
          2021 RAM 2500

          Ranked #6

          --74.7 cu.ft.

          2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            83.5 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.98 ft.
            89.1 cu.ft.89.1 cu.ft.89.1 cu.ft.98 ft.
            61 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.61 cu.ft.79 ft.
            76.3 cu.ft.89.1 cu.ft.89.1 cu.ft.98 ft.
            66 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.98 ft.
            137.4 cu.ft.83.5 cu.ft.137.4 cu.ft.98 ft.

            2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Gooseneck/5th Wheel Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              18510 lbs.17370 lbs.3857 lbs.5914 lbs.
              22800 lbs.13100 lbs.4160 lbs.5877 lbs.
              21500 lbs.17200 lbs.4481 lbs.6339 lbs.
              2021 RAM 2500

              Ranked #3

              19990 lbs.14540 lbs.3690 lbs.6307 lbs.
              18510 lbs.17370 lbs.3857 lbs.5924 lbs.
              14500 lbs.17200 lbs.4421 lbs.6329 lbs.

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