

Most models have a split-folding front bench that can be replaced with a pair of bucket seats and a full center console.

Inside, the Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD have a huge dashboard that hosts user-friendly switchgear. Those who stick with the GMC's standard gas-fed V-8 should expect to see even worse fuel economy than the diesel option. For comparison, the diesel-powered Silverado 2500 LTZ crew cab and Ram 2500 Tradesmen regular cab diesels we tested both managed 19 mpg. We've only tested a Sierra 2500HD Denali with the diesel engine, which earned 17 mpg on the highway. Since the EPA doesn't test vehicles as heavy as the Sierra HD and its gigantic competitors, we can only judge their real-world mpg on our highway fuel-economy route. Maximum conventional towing for the diesel powertrain is 20,000 pounds. The Sierra 2500HD is only offered with a single-rear-wheel axle, and its burliest version is good for 3979 pounds of payload and 18,500 pounds of towing. However, those massive capacities require the diesel engine, regular cab, rear-wheel drive, and dual-rear-wheel axle. The strongest Sierra 3500HD can carry 7442 pounds in its cargo bed and pull as much as 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck trailer. How the 2019 GMC Sierra MultiPro Tailgate Works.2020 GMC Sierra HD Is a Hot Rod Workhorse.The trail-ready AT4 model is a more-rugged take on the commonly chrome-riddled rig, with an off-road suspension and a locking rear differential to go with its otherwise blacked-out aesthetic. Though its steering is vague at highway speeds the Sierra nonetheless feels more agile than its heavy-duty competitors. The gigantic GMC also has an agreeable ride quality for its breed.

Together they helped the 2500HD Denali we tested achieve impressively quick acceleration times. The engine is surprisingly refined, and the transmission is very responsive. However, there's no arguing that the Duramax/Allison combination is a highlight of the heavy-duty Sierra, and it's a no-brainer for those who regularly tow substantial loads. While we've only driven the diesel variant, we did sample the gas-burning powertrain on the mechanically identical Chevy Silverado 2500HD and appreciated its dutiful behavior.

You can also specify either a single- or dual-rear-wheel axle (the iconic "dually"). The optional Duramax diesel 6.6-liter V-8 cranks out 445 ponies and 910 pound-feet of mountain-hauling twist, and it works through an Allison 10-speed automatic. It pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission and rear- or four-wheel drive. The Sierra HD comes standard with a gas-powered 6.6-liter V-8 that generates 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque.
Goodyear trailrunner at reviews driver#
The Driver Alert packages are also worth adding because they make the behemoth easier to live with thanks to assists such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors. We'd pick the SLT Convenience package that includes front bucket seats with ventilated cushions, heated rear seats, and a power-sliding rear window. It also unlocks more options than the lesser SLE trim. The SLT comes standard with GMC's versatile MultiPro tailgate, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, power-adjustable front seats, and remote start. Instead, we'd recommend picking the SLT trim level and adding four-wheel drive and the diesel V-8. We'd steer clear of the rugged AT4 and chrome-laden Denali models despite their enhanced appearance. We'd start with the crew cab and choose the standard bed on the Sierra 2500HD. That’s because GMC will announce a mid-cycle refresh for the 2024 Sierra HDs that includes even more power, torque, and towing capacity. The heavy-duty GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD receive no dramatic equipment changes for 2023. The difference between the GMC and Chevy’s Silverado HD is almost entirely visual, but the bow-tie alternative does offer a more affordable entry into mega-truck-dom. The Sierra comes with plenty of trailer-assist technology and even an optional multifunctional tailgate, but it’s somewhat outclassed by newer rivals such as the Ford Super Duty and Ram HD. If that sounds like too much truck, the half-ton Sierra 1500, reviewed separately, is a proper alternative. The latter gets a 10-speed automatic and is the powertrain of choice for the Sierra 3500 if you plan on utilizing its 20,000 pounds of max conventional towing capability. Built to move the world, the heavy-duty Sierras are offered with either a 401-hp 6.6-liter V-8 and six-speed automatic transmission or a 445-hp 6.6-liter V-8 Duramax Diesel with 910 pound-feet of torque. The heavy duty pickup trucks that roam North America like overfed elk don’t have any antlers, but rubbing up against a tree or two with the GMC Sierra 2500HD or 3500HD probably won’t hurt it much either.
