For 2025, Chevrolet has expanded its Silverado Heavy Duty lineup by adding the Trail Boss package to the 2500-class models. This rugged option, inspired by the 1500 Trail Boss, comes equipped with Z71 suspension upgrades, all-terrain tires wrapped around 20-inch wheels, and distinctive blacked-out bumpers paired with bold red recovery hooks.
Standard is a gas-powered V8 here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, but opting for the Duramax diesel transforms the Trail Boss into a towing powerhouse. It’s a solid choice for those seeking off-road capability without venturing into the larger, heavier ZR2 or Bison territory.
The Duramax diesel shines when it comes to highway cruising or tackling tough terrain. Whether climbing steep grades with a payload in the bed or navigating the open road, the engine delivers seamless power with impressive torque. Inside, the spacious back seat offers plenty of room for gear, making it perfect for adventures with family or toys in tow.
While it doesn’t feature the Multimatic shocks of the ZR2, the Trail Boss’s Rancho dampers perform admirably on pavement and dirt alike, offering a comfortable and capable ride. This package strikes a sweet spot in the Silverado lineup—balancing utility, off-road readiness, and practicality for everyday use.
Need a truck that’s tough enough for the job site but still fun for the weekend? The 2500 Trail Boss has got you covered.
With 975 pound-feet of torque, the Trail Boss is more than ready to haul dirt bikes, side-by-sides, or campers to your favorite trails or campsites. And for a truck with a 6.6L engine, it’s surprisingly fuel-efficient. Over 447 miles, it averaged 15.8 mpg—and that’s on a 36-gallon tank, which still had a quarter left when it was returned.
Smooth and Capable Ride
While the Duramax diesel is a powerhouse, the real focus here is the Trail Boss package. It’s designed as a rugged, practical alternative to the higher-end ZR2 and Bison models, offering plenty of off-road capability without going overboard.
What’s unique about Chevy’s 2500-series trucks is their independent front suspension with torsion bars, paired with a leaf-sprung rear axle. The Trail Boss swaps in Rancho shocks instead of the ZR2’s Multimatics. At first glance, they might not look as hefty, but they deliver where it counts.
Around town, the suspension performed great for the Gear Junkie.com testing crew. It absorbed speed bumps with ease and even smoothed out rough stretches of freeway. The steering felt a bit lighter than expected, which may have been thanks to the BFGoodrich K03 all-terrain tires, known for their stellar grip and durability.
The 2500 Trail Boss strikes a great balance, offering a comfortable ride, impressive hauling capability, and rugged features that shine on or off the road. If you’re after a truck that can tackle work and play without breaking a sweat, this one checks all the boxes.
The Trail Boss delivers a surprisingly quiet and smooth highway ride, thanks in part to its BFGoodrich K03 tires. These tires keep road noise to a minimum, while the V8 hums along effortlessly at low revs, helped by the smartly tuned 10-speed automatic transmission. Wind noise and tire hum barely make it into the cabin, creating a serene driving experience.
It’s worth noting that the Trail Boss’s bumpers and underbody lack some of the heavier steel components found on the ZR2 or Bison models, which likely contributes to its lighter and more aerodynamic feel. For comparison, the ZR2 Bison can weigh up to 1,800 pounds more with all of its add-ons, which even the high-end Multimatic dampers struggle to manage.
Off-Road Comfort and Surprises
When the Trail Boss hits the dirt, its suspension offers a balanced and dependable ride. On washboard gravel roads, the Rancho shocks bring a unique character, allowing a touch more body movement that can create a cushy and comfortable feel. This design strikes a nice balance, showcasing the Trail Boss’s ability to handle a variety of terrains with ease.
The 2500 Trail Boss features a unique layout for its four-wheel-drive controls, positioned on both sides of the steering wheel. This design ensures easy access and quick adjustments as needed. While a rear locker isn’t included, the truck is equipped to handle a variety of towing and off-road challenges with confidence, making it a versatile choice for tackling rugged terrain or slippery conditions.
Overall, the Trail Boss offers a great mix of comfort and capability, especially for those who need a truck that can tackle daily drives and weekend adventures without the extra bulk of higher-end models.
The 2025 Silverado HD Trail Boss is designed to impress with its thoughtful practicality and versatile features. The spacious back seat is perfect for keeping gear clean and secure, while clever storage behind the rear seatbacks is ideal for essentials like tie-down straps. The 6.25-foot bed boasts three levels of tie-down hooks, making it a breeze to haul everything from tools to toys. And for added convenience, Chevy’s innovative Multi-Flex tailgate comes equipped with built-in speakers, adding an extra layer of fun to your adventures.
Hauling a dirt bike for the weekend? The Duramax engine barely notices the load. One thing to note, though, is the digital rearview mirror. The camera’s placement on the cab instead of the tailgate gives a wider field of view, but tall items like a bike can still block it. Even so, this setup might still beat the view you’d get from a traditional mirror.
On the exterior, the glossy black grille and trim pick up dirt and bugs quickly, but that’s the trade-off for its sleek looks. The Trail Boss package fits neatly between a hardworking job site truck and the more rugged ZR2 models. Its lighter weight helps offset the Rancho shocks, which aren’t as advanced as Multimatic dampers but still handle a mix of city streets and off-road trails well.
The 2025 Silverado HD Trail Boss is built for adventure, perfectly balancing power and practicality for toy hauling, light off-roading, and weekend camping escapades. It’s a robust and capable choice, offering the right amount of grit without overcomplicating things. Need to tackle more extreme trails? Chevy’s got you covered with the hardcore ZR2 or the nimble 1500 ZR2 for ultimate off-road thrills.