2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD Pros vs Cons

Similar to the new Chevrolet 2500HD, the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD is a heavy-duty workhorse that offers plenty of premium features. It remains a great choice for the drivers who need a powerful towing and hauling machine. While the base Sierra 2500HD may intrigue budget-minded drivers, the top-of-the-line Denali trim is especially luxurious. Truck enthusiasts will also like the 2500HD’s tough exterior styling.

What's New for 2018?

This year, GMC gives you three new colors to choose from. You will also benefit from an upgraded tire pressure monitor, which makes it easier to keep your tires inflated.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD – The Pros

1. Diesel Engine Produces Class-Leading Horsepower

If you demand the ultimate towing abilities, step up to the mighty Duramax engine. It has been tweaked to produce an impressive 435 horsepower. No other diesel in the class pumps out more horsepower. When pulling a heavy load, the extra brawn under the hood is destined to come in handy.

2. Muscular Base Engine

For the drivers who don’t want to spend any extra money, the base V8 engine deserves some serious consideration. It develops a solid 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The V8-powered model provides enough muscle for you to confidently tow a 9,000-pound trailer. A low-maintenance design makes the base engine even more rewarding.

3. Quiet, Smooth Performance

The 2018 GMC 2500HD 2WD offers an incredibly smooth ride. While you are behind the wheel, it feels like you are driving a luxury sedan opposed to a heavy-duty truck. Whether you are traveling on the open highway or cruising around town, expect to experience an impressive level of comfort. You will also grow to appreciate this pickup’s quiet cabin.

4. Very Comfortable Seats

While the 2018 GMC 2500HD 2WD can be used for everyday commuting, it is an especially rewarding long-distance cruiser. After taking the truck on an out-of-town road trip, you are bound to be impressed by its well-designed seats. They do a great job of supporting your entire body. Ventilated front seats come standard on the luxurious Denali model.

5. Roomy and Accommodating

When it comes to spaciousness, the 2018 GMC 2500HD 2WD ranks near the top of its class. Even tall drivers will have ample head- and legroom. The crew cab version is perfect for families. A spacious backseat enables everyone to stretch out. You will also find plenty of useful storage areas on the inside. Available as an option, the running boards make it extremely easy for your passengers to climb aboard.

6. Denali Trim Offers Extreme Luxury

The 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD Denali is among the most luxurious trucks on the market. It is designed for the drivers who demand an extra number of creature comforts. Upgraded interior trim helps separate the Denali model from the rest of the lineup. Some of the other upgrades include a heated steering wheel, a customizable gauge cluster, and wireless phone charging.

7. Praiseworthy IntelliLink Infotainment System

Even the base model can now be equipped with GMC’s impressive IntelliLink infotainment system. It is hands-down one of the most user-friendly interfaces on the market. Sharp graphics and large icons make the system’s touch-screen display easy to read. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now included, which enable you to quickly find your favorite smartphone apps.

8. 4G Wi-Fi Hot Spot

Like many of today’s drivers, you probably use the Internet on a daily basis. Aside from the base 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD, all of the other trims come standard with a 4G Wi-Fi hot spot. You will be able to surf the web at any time of the day. Most importantly, all of your passengers can take advantage of the Wi-Fi hot spot.

9. Rugged Z71 Suspension Package

If you plan on traveling off the beaten path, the Z71 suspension package may prove to be a must-have feature. It definitely gives the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD a more rugged character. The list of off-road goodies includes protective skid plates, a specially tuned suspension, and hill descent control.

10. Driver Alert Safety Package

The Driver Alert safety package is an upgrade that every driver will benefit from. It will help you to avoid road hazards on a daily basis. Several active driving aids come with the package, including forward collision warning and a vibrating Safety Alert Seat.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD – The Cons

1. Expensive Denali Trim

The top-of-the-line Denali trim demands a hefty price. It has an MSRP of around $55,745. Keep in mind that opting for the Duramax engine will cause the total cost to rise.

2. No Manual Transmission Available

All versions of the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD come equipped with an automatic transmission. While this issue won’t concern most buyers, there are still some drivers who prefer to shift their own gears. The 2018 Ram 2500 is currently the only truck in the segment that offers a traditional manual transmission.

3. Expect to Spend More Money at the Pump

Although the EPA doesn’t provide an official fuel economy rating for the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD, you can expect it to be far less efficient that a light-duty pickup. If gas mileage is a big concern, the regular Silverado 1500 may prove to be a better choice.

How it stacks up to the competition:

The 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty and the 2018 Ram 2500 compete against the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD. Although these heavy-duty trucks are definitely worthy of a test drive, the Sierra 2500HD stands out in virtually every important category. A lack of advanced safety technologies put the new Ram 2500 at a big disadvantage.

Conclusion:

From a standpoint of luxuriousness, the 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2WD sits atop the segment. This is especially true for the feature-packed Denali trim. Despite the Sierra 2500HD’s beautiful appearance, it is still tough enough to handle a rugged environment.