2018 Sierra 2500 HD Configurations

30 configurations across 4 trim levels

Configuration Max Towing Payload MPG Engine
Base 2dr Regular Cab RWD Long Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
 14,500 lbs 3,534 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD Long Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
14,500 lbs 3,410 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Double Cab RWD Long Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
 14,500 lbs 3,276 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Double Cab 4WD Long Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
14,500 lbs 2,987 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Crew Cab RWD Long Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
 14,500 lbs 3,141 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Crew Cab 4WD Long Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
14,500 lbs 3,186 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Double Cab RWD Short Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
 13,000 lbs 3,381 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Double Cab 4WD Short Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
13,000 lbs 3,093 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Crew Cab RWD Short Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
 13,000 lbs 3,233 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft
Base 4dr Crew Cab 4WD Short Bed
6.0L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
13,000 lbs 2,943 lbs
11/15
city/hwy
 6.0L V8
360 hp • 380 lb-ft

Recommended Towing Gear

Equipment recommended for a Class IV hitch setup

Class IV Hitch
Rated for heavy duty towing
Shop Hitches
Brake Controller
Required for trailers over 3,000 lbs
Shop Controllers
Towing Mirrors
Extended visibility for safer towing
Shop Mirrors
Weight Distribution
Stabilize heavy loads
Shop WDH

Other Sierra 2500 HD Model Years

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2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2017 2016

Common Questions

Answers based on our research and real owner data

What can a 2018 Sierra 2500 HD actually tow?

It depends on which configuration you get. The 2018 Sierra 2500 HD ranges from 13,000 to 14,500 lbs. That's a big spread! The difference usually comes down to cab style, drivetrain, and engine choice. We always recommend staying around 80% of your max — so 11,600 lbs for safe towing.

Which configuration should I pick?

Start with what you're towing. If you know your RV or trailer weight, work backwards. Generally, 4WD adds safety at boat ramps and campgrounds but reduces towing capacity slightly. Crew cabs give you passenger room but less payload. Check the table above — we highlight towing and MPG so you can compare at a glance.

How does payload affect what I can tow?

Here's what catches people off guard: tongue weight counts against your payload. For bumper pull trailers, that's typically 10-15% of the trailer's loaded weight. So if your trailer weighs 8,000 lbs, you're putting 800-1,200 lbs in your truck bed. Add passengers and gear, and payload fills up fast.

What hitch do I need for a Sierra 2500 HD?

For the 2018 Sierra 2500 HD, we recommend a Class IV receiver hitch. It's rated for the full towing capacity of 14,500 lbs. Don't skimp here — your hitch is the critical link between truck and trailer.