2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Review

2025 GMC Sierra 1500 – Overview

When deciding between the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 and its close sibling, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the choice largely comes down to styling preference. Under the sheet metal, these two full-size pickups share nearly identical engineering, offering a vast array of configurations in cab styles, engine options, bed lengths, towing capabilities, and interior trims.

The Sierra’s engine lineup features four solid choices: a base turbocharged four-cylinder, a 5.3-liter V8, a more powerful 6.2-liter V8, and a robust Duramax diesel engine that can tow up to 13,300 pounds. Just like the Silverado, the Sierra 1500 can be configured as a regular cab, double cab, or crew cab, with bed sizes ranging from 5.8 feet to 8.2 feet. Four-wheel drive is optional across all body styles.

GMC sets itself apart with its premium Denali and Denali Ultimate trims, catering to buyers seeking a more upscale truck experience. These high-end versions offer luxurious features while still coming in several thousand dollars cheaper than a comparably equipped Ram 1500.

Although the Sierra edges out the competition in maximum towing capacity—beating the Ram 1500 by 450 pounds—the Ram continues to dominate in ride comfort and interior refinement. These advantages are among the reasons the Ram 1500 has earned multiple spots on our 10Best list, unlike the Sierra.

When Is The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Coming Out?

The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 is expected to arrive in dealerships by late summer or early fall of 2024. Pre-orders began earlier in the year, with various trims rolling out in phases. The Denali and AT4X trims typically hit showrooms a few weeks after the base models.

What’s New for 2025 GMC Sierra 1500?

The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 sees only minimal changes compared to the previous model year. The most notable update is the addition of new 22-inch wheel options. Otherwise, the truck remains largely unchanged. Originally launched in 2019 and refreshed in 2022, this generation of the Sierra continues without significant revisions, and GMC has not announced any major redesign plans in the near future.

Pricing and Which Model to Choose

The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 is priced from $39,145 and can reach up to $86,890, depending on the trim level and optional features.

Our top pick is the Sierra Elevation trim — true to its name, it enhances the overall driving experience. Positioned in the mid-price range, it offers a stylish appearance package that stands out. Buyers can choose from various cab styles and bed lengths to best suit their needs. Four-wheel drive is also available as an optional upgrade for those who require it.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2025 Sierra 1500 offers a variety of powertrain options, including four different engines, two transmissions, and choices between rear-wheel and four-wheel drive. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those wanting more power, two popular V-8 engines are available: a 5.3-liter V-8 with 355 horsepower and a 6.2-liter V-8 delivering 420 horsepower. Additionally, there’s a torque-heavy, light-duty diesel six-cylinder engine that generates 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 lb-ft of torque, all mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Sierra 1500 can be equipped with adaptive dampers and wheels up to 22 inches in diameter. While its standard ride is a bit firmer compared to the Ram 1500, it handles well with precise steering and minimal body roll. Although the Sierra doesn’t match the extreme off-road prowess of the Ford F-150 Raptor, it offers two dedicated off-road trims. The AT4 model features a 2-inch suspension lift and genuine off-road equipment. The AT4X takes it further, sharing several upgrades with the Silverado ZR2, such as advanced spool-valve dampers, electronic-locking front and rear differentials, additional skid plates, and aggressive off-road tires mounted on black 18-inch wheels. For serious off-road enthusiasts, the AT4X AEV package adds heavy-duty accessories like a steel front bumper with winch, AEV 18-inch wheels, and steel rock sliders for extra protection.

0–60-MPH Times

At our test track, the fully loaded Denali Ultimate model equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8 accelerated to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. While we haven’t tested the Sierra with its other engine options, we have evaluated the closely related Chevy Silverado. The Silverado 1500 powered by the 5.3-liter V-8 reached 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, and the diesel variant clocked in at 6.8 seconds.

Towing and Payload Capacity

When properly equipped, the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds and carry a maximum payload of 2,530 pounds, making it a strong contender in the half-ton pickup segment.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel efficiency for the Sierra 1500 varies depending on the chosen body style, chassis length, and bed size. For those prioritizing fuel economy, the optional diesel engine is the best choice, offering an EPA rating of up to 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, the majority of Sierra trucks, especially the Denali models, come equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8, which is estimated to deliver around 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway when paired with four-wheel drive. In our real-world highway testing, the Sierra 1500 Denali 4WD Crew Cab managed an impressive 18 mpg. For detailed fuel economy ratings, you can check the EPA’s official website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The interior of the Sierra is clearly designed with the driver’s convenience in mind. Controls are intuitively placed within easy reach, and material quality improves noticeably as you move up through the trim levels. Starting with the SLE trim, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard. Higher trims unlock premium features such as a head-up display and a power-adjustable steering column. The Denali Ultimate trim takes luxury to the next level, featuring open-pore wood accents and abundant leather surfaces. The front seats offer 16-way power adjustments along with massage functions for added comfort.

Storage inside the cabin is ample enough to accommodate various small items, though GMC doesn’t offer groundbreaking storage innovations. On the practical side, the Sierra 1500 comes with a versatile multi-function tailgate, and it also features a class-exclusive carbon-fiber-reinforced cargo bed that’s lighter yet stronger than traditional steel beds.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Most 2025 Sierra 1500 models come equipped with a 13.4-inch touchscreen that serves as the hub for the truck’s infotainment system, while base models feature a smaller 7.0-inch display. The larger screen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, and it integrates Google-powered software, giving users access to an app store, navigation, and a voice assistant. Additional available amenities include a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system, wireless phone charging, and extra power outlets for added convenience.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Sierra 1500 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance technologies. For off-road enthusiasts, there’s a Terrain mode that enables one-pedal driving at low speeds, enhancing control on challenging surfaces. The truck also features a multicamera system that offers a clear view behind the vehicle when towing, effectively making the trailer “disappear” from the driver’s perspective for easier maneuvering.

The Denali trim can be fitted with GM’s advanced Super Cruise hands-free driving system, which works on an extensive network of highways across the U.S. and even supports trailer use. However, automatic lane changes are only available when the truck is not towing a trailer.

For detailed crash-test ratings, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key standard safety features include:

• Forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking

• Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

GMC offers a solid warranty package for the Sierra 1500, though it doesn’t quite match the coverage provided by the Nissan Titan. The warranty includes one complimentary scheduled maintenance visit. Specifically:

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty lasts for 5 years or 60,000 miles

• The first scheduled maintenance visit is complimentary

2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 remains a top contender in the full-size pickup segment. Whether you need a workhorse, a tech-laden daily driver, or a luxury utility truck, there’s a Sierra configuration to match. While the market is flooded with strong competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, GMC distinguishes itself with upscale trims like Denali Ultimate, impressive diesel performance, and standout technology such as Super Cruise.

2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Videos