Sierra 1500 Vs. Sierra 2500

Salinas GMC Shoppers Ask What is the Difference Between The 1500 and 2500?

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and Sierra 2500HD are exceptional pickups that provide the power to handle tough jobs and the comfort for use as excellent daily drivers. Both models feature a Denali trim level, which offers luxury levels of comfort. If you’re considering buying a GMC Sierra model at a dealer like the GMC dealership near Salinas and you’d like to learn about the differences between these two models, read on as we compare the two to help you determine which one is best for your needs./p>

The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size light-duty pickup capable of handling tough jobs, including towing, hauling and off-roading. The Sierra 2500HD is a full-size heavy-duty pickup with even more capability than its Sierra 1500 stablemate.


Cost


The 2021 Sierra 1500 costs less than the 2021 Sierra 2500HD. The Sierra 1500 has a starting Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $30,100, while the Sierra 2500HD’s MSRP starts at $36,200. Keep in mind that you won’t pay the MSRP when you visit the GMC dealership serving Salinas. We use this figure to compare the two models.


Engines


Buyers will get more engine choices with the Sierra 1500, while the Sierra 2500HD has more powerful engines. The Sierra 1500 lineup includes five different engines:


  • 4.3-liter V6 generating 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque
  • 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 hp and 348 lb-ft
  • 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine making 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft
  • 5.3-liter V8 engine developing 355 hp and 383 lb-ft
  • 6.2-liter V8 putting out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft

The Sierra 2500 HD Gets Two Engines:


  • 6.6-liter V8 generating 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft
  • 6.6-liter Duramax V8 turbodiesel good for 445 hp and 910 lb-ft

Towing and Hauling


Those looking for a pickup that provides the most towing and hauling capacity will choose the 2021 Sierra 2500HD over the 2021 Sierra 1500.


  • The Sierra 1500 with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine can pull up to 9,100 pounds with two-wheel drive. With the optional 3.0-liter turbodiesel, capacity maxes out at 9,200. The Sierra 1500 can haul up to 2,280 pounds.
  • The Sierra 2500HD has a maximum towing capacity of 14,500 pounds with the gas engine. With a fifth wheel or gooseneck hitch, the towing capacity increases to 16,620 pounds for the standard box configuration and 16,520 with the long box. With the diesel engine, the 2500HD can pull 18,500 pounds. The maximum payload capacity is 3,900 pounds.

Seating


Both pickups seat three in Regular Cab models and six in Double and Crew Cab models.


Handling


With a smaller The GMC Sierra 1500 has a significantly smaller turning radius than the GMC Sierra 2500HD, making it easier to maneuver in and out of tight spots.


Which One to Buy?


The 2021 Sierra 1500 is a good choice for most pickup buyers. It provides all the power to accomplish most tasks. Buyers who need the extra performance required to handle the most challenging jobs should choose the more powerful 2021 Sierra 2500HD.


Visit CardinaleWay GMC and discover even more reasons to buy a GMC truck. We’re located at 2 Heitzinger Plaza in Seaside, easy to reach from Watsonville and the surrounding area.


The Cardinale Way

CardinaleWay GMC Seaside is located at 2 Heitzinger Plaza in Seaside. If you’d like to schedule a test drive or make a service appointment for your GMC vehicle, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our showroom is open seven days a week, and our service department operates Monday through Friday. We look forward to providing you with excellent service!