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How Are the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 vs. Sierra 2500 Different?

When shopping for a new GMC truck, you have so many great options available to you that it can be hard to narrow them down. We often get questions about what the differences are between the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 vs. Sierra 2500 HD trucks. Essentially, it boils down to the Sierra 1500 being a full-size pickup that's designed for light-duty work and off-roading, while the Sierra 2500 is a heavy-duty truck that can take on bigger jobs.

There are plenty of other differences between these GMC Sierra trucks, of course, and our team is here to help you go over all the fine details so that you can find the best match for your lifestyle. Check out our 2025 Sierra truck comparison below, then head to our GMC dealership near Magnolia to take a test-drive!

Front view of the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 driving down the road

Are the GMC Sierra 1500 & Sierra 2500 HD Engines the Same?

The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 and Sierra 2500 HD trucks each offer a different lineup of engines. The new Sierra 1500 model offers four distinct engine options, including the standard310-horsepower TurboMax™, two EcoTec3 V8s and a turbodiesel powertrain.

The 2025 Sierra 2500 HD, meanwhile, comes with a standard 401-horsepower 6.6-liter V8. While the Sierra 2500 also offers a turbodiesel engine, it's larger and more powerful than its sibling's engine.

Can the GMC Sierra 2500 Tow More than the Sierra 1500?

The 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 HD is able to tow more than the Sierra 1500 by design -- heavy-duty trucks are known for their superior towing and payload ratings compared to their light-duty counterparts. In the case of this model, the Sierra 2500 towing capacity can reach up to 21,870 pounds. The 2025 Sierra 1500 is still able to tow a sizeable amount, offering a max tow rating of 13,200 pounds.

Does the Sierra 1500 Offer More Features than the Sierra 2500?

When it comes to comparing Sierra features, you'll find both similarities and differences between these two models. The 2025 Sierra 2500 HD offers many trailering features and capabilities to enhance your time at the worksite.

The new GMC Sierra 1500, meanwhile, provides technologies and amenities that prioritize driver comfort, such as the available Super Cruise™ hands-free driving system. With eight trims and four engine options to choose from, it's easy to customize a new Sierra 1500 pickup truck to your liking.

2025 GMC Sierra 1500

  • Size: Full-Size Pickup
  • Trim Options: 8
  • AT4X Trim Level: Available
  • Engine Options: 4
  • Standard Engine: TurboMax™
  • Standard Horsepower: 310
  • Standard Torque (lb-ft): 430
  • Diesel Engine: 3.0-liter Duramax® Turbo Diesel
  • Diesel Horsepower: 305
  • Diesel Torque (lb-ft): 495
  • Max Towing Capacity (lbs.): 13,200
  • Super Cruise™ Hands-Free Driving Technology: Available

2025 GMC Sierra 2500 HD

  • Size: Heavy-Duty Truck
  • Trim Options: 7
  • AT4X Trim Level: Available
  • Engine Options: 2
  • Standard Engine: 6.6-liter V8
  • Standard Horsepower: 401
  • Standard Torque (lb-ft): 464
  • Diesel Engine: 6.6-liter Duramax® Turbo Diesel
  • Diesel Horsepower: 470
  • Diesel Torque (lb-ft): 975
  • Max Towing Capacity (lbs.): 21,870
  • Super Cruise™ Hands-Free Driving Technology: N/A

Buy a GMC Sierra Truck Near Magnolia, AR

Want to continue comparing GMC Sierra trucks in Arkansas with the help of our team of experts? Stop by or contact Hope Auto Chevrolet GMC to take a test-drive and plan out the rest of your visit. Whether you're seeking a weekend adventuring companion or a jobsite companion, we're sure to have a Sierra model to suit your needs!

More Resources: Compare Sierra Lineup | New GMC Specials | Silverado 1500 vs. Silverado 2500