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What’s the Difference Between the GMC Sierra 1500 and 2500?

It’s not uncommon for South Salt Lake drivers to come to us, not knowing which truck is best for the way they drive: the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500. Both trucks have the exceptional power and styling with luxury accents they expect from a GMC vehicle, but what’s the difference between the GMC Sierra 1500 and 2500? Primarily, it’s the amount of power. The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size, light-duty truck, while the GMC Sierra 2500 is a full-size, heavy-duty truck. Find out more about what that means when you’re trying to decide between a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500, then shop our new GMC inventory for your next truck!
New GMC Inventory Manufacturer Information
2022 GMC Sierra Colors
2023 GMC Sierra 1500
$37,200
 310 hp to 420 hp
383 lb-ft to 460 lb-ft
13,000 pounds
    vs.
    Starting MSRP
    Horsepower Range
    Torque Range
    Max Towing Capacity
      2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD
      $42,200
      401 hp to 445 hp
      464 lb-ft to 910 lb-ft 
      36,000 pounds

        2023 GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500 HD: Performance Specs

        As we said, it all comes down to what kind of performance you need from your truck when you’re choosing between the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500 HD. That means you’ll want to start your shopping by choosing which engine specs are right for how you drive:

        GMC Sierra HD 1500 Engine Options:

        2.7L Turbo High-Output
        • 310 hp and 430 lb.-ft. of torque
        • Max available trailering: 9,400 lbs

        5.8L V8
        • 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque
        • Max available trailering: 11,200 lbs

        3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel
        • 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque
        • 24 city /29 hwy MPG
        • Active Thermal Management

        6.2L V8 
        • 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque
        • 15 city /19 hwy MPG
        • Dynamic Fuel Management

          GMC Sierra HD 2500 Engine Options:

          Standard 6.6L V8 Gas Engine
          • 401 hp and 464 lb.-ft. of torque
          • 6-speed automatic transmission

          Available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 Engine with Allison 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
          • 445 hp and 910 lb.-ft. of torque
          • Large variable-speed cooling fan and dual path air induction system

            2023 GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500 HD: Towing

            The other area where people find themselves deciding if they need a light-duty or heavy-duty truck is towing capability and payload capacity. Here’s the difference between the GMC 1500 vs. 2500: 

            2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Towing:
            • Available Maximum Towing Up to 13,000 Lbs
            • Maximum Payload Up to 2,270 Lbs

            2023 GMC Sierra HD 2500 Towing:
            • Available Maximum Towing Up to 36,000 Lbs
            • Maximum Payload Up to 7,442 Lbs

              See the Difference Between the GMC Sierra 1500 & 2500 at Salt Lake Valley Buick GMC

              We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen a GMC for your next truck, and we want to help you make sure you’re getting the one with the capabilities you want! Contact Salt Lake Valley Buick GMC to arrange test drives so you can compare the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 or 2500 today. Or, visit our manufacturer’s information hub for more information about GMC trucks and features.