GMC Sierra vs Chevy Silverado

When comparing the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado, you’ll notice both full-size pick-ups deliver great capability, plenty of configurations, and the technology modern truck drivers desire. Although they share family roots, comparing the Sierra and Silverado comes down to two deciding factors: Quality and Comfort. The Sierra’s price tag sits higher than its Chevy counterpart, but the craftsmanship and attention to detail show in the Sierra Denali trim. Let’s dive into the main areas of each pick-up to dissect which truck fits your style the best.

Performance & Capability (Towing & Payload)

Both full-size pick-ups offer the same four engines and nearly identical towing and payload capacities. Both feature a 2.7L TurboMax 4, a 3.0L turbo diesel engine, a 5.3L V8, and the range-topping 6.2L V8 engine found in the GMC Sierra Denali and Silverado ZR2. The Turbomax engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while all other engines receive a 10-speed automatic. At their most powerful (6.2L V8), these trucks offer a maximum towing capacity of 13,200 lbs. and a payload capacity of 2,240 lbs (2.7L I-4 models). Rear-wheel drive is standard on both trucks, with 4×4 standard loaded in higher trims. On the Sierra side, the Denali, AT4, and AT4X get standard 4×4, while the Silverado is standard on Custom Trail Boss, LT Trail Boss, and ZR2 models. Ultimately, these trucks output very similar capabilities, marking it as not a deciding factor between these two full-size pick-ups.

Fuel Economy

The Sierra and Silverado return similar fuel economy, with both trucks sporting the same engines and drivetrains. Here’s how the four engines line up in terms of fuel economy (city/highway/combined):

• 2.7L TurboMax 4 – 4X4 18/20/19 mpg | RWD 19/22/20 mpg 
• 5.3L V8 Engine  – RWD Silverado 17/21/19 mpg, RWD Sierra 17/21/19 mpg | 4X4 models 16/20/17 (Both Trucks)
• 6.2L V-8 Engine (Only 4X4) – Silverado 16/20/17 mpg | Sierra 15/19/17 mpg 
• 3.0L Turbodiesel – RWD models 24/29/26 | 4X4 models 22/27/24 mpg

Exterior Styling

Possibly the most obvious difference between the Sierra and Silverado is the exterior styling of both full-size pick-ups. Both stand tall, with multiple bed lengths and cab configurations. The GMC Sierra offers multiple grille styles and sleek daytime running lights that create a dominating look. Another subtle difference is the GMC Sierra’s boxed wheel arches to the rounded arches of the Silverado. The boxed arch adds to the commanding look of the wide-stance Sierra, while the Silverado allows for empty space above the tires. If you’re looking for a truck with a confident and rugged exterior style, we’d recommend the GMC Sierra.

Technology & Comfort

Stepping inside these impressive full-size trucks, you’ll notice both trucks welcome riders into spacious, comfortable cabin spaces. Both feature plenty of leg and headroom for passengers and the technology to keep you connected and safe along the way. In terms of comfort, the Sierra edges out the Silverado with leather seating, upgraded technology, and premium interior accents. Both offer 13.4-inch driver touchscreen interfaces with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation capabilities. As for safety, the two trucks come with their own safety suites with an array of assist and safety features (GMC Pro Safety and Chevy Safety Assist). Both trucks share key safety features such as Front Pedestrian Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Following Distance Indicator, IntelliBeam Auto high-beam control, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. 

Pricing – Sierra & Silverado

When comparing the prices of both pick-ups, you’ll notice they share a similar entry price for models like the Sierra Pro and Silverado Custom. The Sierra will likely have a higher price tag, but this usually comes with premium interior materials, the latest GM technology, and a more impressive exterior style. With prices being different between the two trucks, deciding which comfort features are important to you can be the deciding factor for your next truck. If you need help deciding which truck fits your lifestyle and budget, contact our Bob Moore Buick GMC team today. We can help you establish which features and capabilities are important to you so you can make the best choice in your search.