GMC Sierra vs. Chevrolet Silverado: The Differences

December 09 2025,

GMC Sierra vs. Chevrolet Silverado: The Differences
header image - GMC Sierra vs Chevrolet Silverado

Are you debating between a Chevrolet Silverado vs. GMC Sierra? Whether it's a smaller, yet powerful model, like the 1500, a Heavy-Duty such as the 2500 and 3500, or an EV model, both manufacturers offer outstanding trucks, even though each has its own distinct focus. Here is a comparison outlining the major differences between these two titans.

GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado

Choosing between a Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra can be challenging, as they generally share the same engines and levels of power. With robust and high-performing trucks on both sides, your final decision will largely depend on your priorities and personal preferences.

When it comes to Chevrolet, practicality and affordable models with plenty of options are generally prioritized, whereas GMC focuses more on luxury and refinement. That said, the most upscale Chevrolet trims are very luxurious, and GMC also offers accessible base trims, although prices tend to increase more quickly with each trim.

Your choice will ultimately depend on what you are looking for and your taste in design.

front side view of a 2026 GMC Sierra 2026 GMC Sierra 1500
front side view of a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2026 GMC Sierra 1500 vs. Chevrolet Silverado 1500

At first glance, you can easily differentiate the Sierra from the Silverado by the radiator grille and taillights. Furthermore, the Sierra offers an option for a Cargo Bed lined with carbon fibre, which is not available on the Silverado. In terms of mechanics, the specifications are identical, as you will see below.

Price and Trims

For the GMC Sierra 1500, 8 trims are available, with an MSRP price ranging from $52,920 to $104,711. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is offered in 9 trims, priced between $58,025 and $95,525.

Engines and Performance

Both trucks offer the same choice of 4 powertrains. They are:

Turbomax V8 ECOTEC 5,3 L Turbo Diesel DURAMAX V8 ECOTEC 6,2 L
310 CH/430 lb-ft. 355 CH/383 lb-ft. 305 CH/495 lb-ft. 420 CH/460 lb-ft.
8-vitesses auto. 10-Speed Auto.

Note: The Turbomax engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic, while the other engines come with a 10-speed automatic.

Towing Capacity and Payload

Since the engines are identical, the towing capacities for the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado are the same, as is the payload. They will depend on the engine selected and range up to 13,300 lb. (6,033 kg) for towing and 2,381 lb. (1,080 kg) for payload.

Comfort, Design, and Technology

Although both trucks feature comfortable and technologically advanced interiors, the luxury levels climb more rapidly on the Sierra, which will also be the first to introduce new advanced technologies. The Silverado generally follows closely, offering remarkable comfort and luxury in its most upscale trims.

cockpit view of a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 2026 GMC Sierra 1500
cockpit view of a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Below is a summary table for the two models, including the towing capacities of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra:

  GMC Sierra 1500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Trims 8 9
Price Range (MSRP) $52,920 to $104,711 $58,025 to $95,525
Powertrains Turbomax 5.3 L V8 DURAMAX Turbo Diesel 6.2 L V8
Power/Torque (horespower/lb-ft.) 310/430 (Turb.) 355/383 (5.3L) 305/495 (Dies.) 420/460 (6.2L)
Transmission 8-Speed (turb.) 10-Speed (5.3L/Dies./6.2L)
Traction 2WD or 4WD
Towing 9,500 lb. (4,309 kg) to 13,300 lb. (6,033 kg)
Payload 2,207 lb. (1,001 kg) to 2,381 lb. (1,080 kg)

2026 GMC Sierra 2500 vs. Chevrolet Silverado 2500

Entry into the Heavy-Duty truck market comes with the 2500 models on both sides, each offering the same engine options. Despite these similarities, GMC often receives higher power ratings, and Chevrolet is recognized as being even more reliable.

Price and Trims

This time, GMC offers one more trim than Chevrolet, which results in 6 for the Sierra versus 5 for the Silverado. The price range extends from $65,799 to $130,233 for the Sierra and from $71,425 to $113,320 for the Silverado.

front side view of a 2026 GMC Sierra HD 2026 GMC Sierra HD
vue latérale avant d'un Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 2026 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

Engines and Performance

Below are the two engines offered on both models, with their respective performance:

6.6 L V8 Duramax Turbo Diesel
401 horsepower / 464 lb-ft. 470 horsepower / 975 lb-ft.

Towing Capacity and Payload

The maximum towing capacity for both trucks reaches 20,000 lb. (9,072 kg). For even more impressive capability, you might consider the 3500 Heavy Duty.

Comfort, Design, and Technology

Both trucks offer interiors amenable to 3, 5, or 6 passengers. They are comfortable, technologically advanced, and practical; however, the Denali Ultimate trim on the Sierra stands out, particularly in terms of refinement, a feature not offered by the Chevrolet.

cockpit and dashboard view of a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
cockpit and dashboard view of a 2026 GMC Sierra 2500HD 2026 GMC Sierra 2500HD

Below is a summary table of both trucks:

  GMC Sierra 2500 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Trims 6 5
Price Range (MSRP) (2025) $65,799 to $130,233 $71,425 to $113,320
Powertrains 6.6 L V8 DURAMAX Turbo Diesel ($)
Power/Torque (Horsepower/lb-ft.) 401/464 (V8) 470/975 (Dies.)
Transmission 10-Speed Automatic or 10-Speed Automatic w/ integrated Power Take-Off (PTO) ($) 10-Speed Automatic
Traction 2WD or 4WD
Max. Towing 20,000 lb. (9,072 kg)
Max. Payload 4,132 lb. (1,874 kg)

2026 GMC Sierra 3500 vs. CHEVROLET Silverado 3500

At the pinnacle of Heavy-Duty trucks, you will have a true work horse on both sides.

Price and Trims

The GMC is offered in 6 trims, while Chevrolet offers 4. Prices for the GMC vary from $75,633 to $135,233 and from $73,425 to $116,820 for the Chevrolet.

front side view of a 2026 GMC Sierra 3500HD 2026 GMC Sierra 3500HD
front side view of a 2026 GMC Sierra 3500 2026 GMC Sierra 3500

Note that, in addition to these trims, a multitude of configurations are available, pertaining to the cargo bed and cab, drive system (2WD or 4WD) and wheels (single or dual at the rear), etc.

Engines and Performance

Both 3500 HP trucks offer the same engine options as their 2500 HD models, along with identical performance levels.

Towing Capacity and Payload

Despite using the same powertrains, the maximum towing capacity reaches an impressive 36,000 lb. (16,330 kg) for the 3500 HD, and the payload is rated at 7,290 lb. (3,307 kg). You will never be short on power!

Comfort, Design, and Technology

Once again, the trend continues with higher levels of luxury and refinement in the top-tier GMC trims, though in both cases you will end up with a very complete truck.

Below is a summary table for the two trucks:

  GMC Sierra 3500 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
Trims 6 4
Price Range (MSRP) (2025) $75,633 to $135,233 $73,425 to $116,820
Powertrains 6.6 L V8 DURAMAX Turbo Diesel ($)
Power/Torque (Horsepower/lb-ft.) 401/464 (V8) 470/975 (Dies.)
Transmission 10-Speed Automatic or 10-Speed Automatic w/ integrated Power Take-Off (PTO) ($)
Traction 2WD or 4WD
Max. Towing 36,000 lb. (16,330 kg)
Max. Payload 7,290 lb. (3,307 kg)

2026 GMC Sierra EV vs. Chevrolet Silverado EV

For those who prefer significant savings on fuel, both manufacturers also offer electric truck options.

Price and Trims

Both trucks are available in 3 trims, but with different range options, meaning you actually have a choice among 6 trims.

Prices vary between $83,633 and $123,633 for the Sierra EV and between $67,625 and $121,325 for the Silverado EV.

front side view of a 2026 GMC Sierra EV 2026 GMC Sierra EV
front side view of a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV

Performance, Battery and Range

The electric powertrain comes with an onboard charging module of either 11.5 kW or 19.2 kW, and the power peaks at 760 horsepower with 785 lb-ft. of torque. You will have the choice between a standard, extended, and maximum range in both cases, with nearly identical figures—up to a maximum of 769 km for the Sierra and 792 km for the Silverado.

It is worth noting that several independent tests have been conducted, yielding results well beyond these very conservative official range figures, sometimes even reaching double.

Towing Capacity

You will be pleased to know that the towing capacity for these electric trucks reaches up to an impressive 12,500 lb. (5,670 kg)!

Comfort, Design, and Technology

The same trend is seen in the interiors of the electric pickups: the Chevrolet focuses on enhanced practicality, while GMC emphasizes elevated luxury.

Below is a summary table for the Sierra EV and the Silverado EV:

  2026 GMC Sierra EV 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV
Trims 3 (6) 3 (6)
Price Range (MSRP) (2025) $83,633 to $123,633 $67,625 to $121,325
Powertrains Electric with integrated 11.5 kW or 19.2 kW charging module
Power/Torque (Horspower/lb-ft.) Up to 760/785
Traction AWD
Range Standard (455 km) Extended (660 km) Maximum (769 km) Standard (454 km) Extended (679 km) Maximum (792 km)
Charging Times (Ext. Range 20 to 80 %) 9.6 kW Plug-In Wall Charger: 13 hrs 17 min 19.2 kW Hardwired Wall Charger: 6 hrs 38 min
Max. Towing 12,500 lb. (5,670 kg)

Do you still have questions regarding the differences between GMC and Chevrolet trucks? Would you like to schedule a test drive? Contact us today at Chibougamau Automobiles, near Lac-Saint-Jean, Vald'Or and Amos. A team of passionate experts is ready to help you find the best truck for your needs, as well as telling you more about advantageous financing options and current special offers.

view of a trio of 2026 Chevrolet Silverado

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