2021 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2021 Toyota Tundra

The 2021 Toyota Tundra, with its somewhat awkward appearance, was a product of its time, having been developed in the mid-2000s and released for the 2007 model year. Its massive grille and small headlights gave it an oversized look, but the "Cement" paint colour and blacked-out wheels and badging lent it a modern touch. Inside, the cabin was a mix of dated and contemporary elements, with hard plastics and monotone panels dominating the dash. Despite its mid-2010s styling, the Tundra's interior was user-friendly, with all buttons and dials within easy reach. The infotainment system, updated in 2020, included a standard 7-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which was a critical update for tech-savvy drivers.

In contrast, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 was known for its styling and upscale Denali trim level. The Sierra AT4 test truck, priced at $78,938 Canadian, was the off-road-ready version, featuring a factory-installed 5 cm suspension lift, off-road suspension, and unique design details like red front recovery hooks. The black-on-black Sierra looked sleek but was challenging to keep clean. Inside, the cabin was a sea of black plastic with some caramel seat trim and metallic accents. The Sierra's interior was functional but lacked the luxury expected at its price point. The CarbonPro Edition Package added a carbon fibre composite cargo bed, enhancing durability and reducing weight.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came standard with a 5.7-litre V8 engine, producing 391 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided strong acceleration and a towing capacity of 4,400 kilograms. While the Tundra's towing capacity was lower than some competitors, its power delivery was confident, and the truck was comfortable over various surfaces. The steering was vague at low speeds but settled on the highway, making it ideal for cruising.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 offered a Duramax 3.0-litre turbodiesel six-cylinder engine, producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided impressive torque and fuel efficiency, averaging 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The Sierra's suspension handled tough terrain with ease, and the truck maintained traction in various weather conditions. With a towing capacity of 4,173 kilograms, the Sierra was a capable workhorse.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra offered two cab sizes and three bed sizes, with the CrewMax providing ample space for passengers and cargo. The front seats were spacious, with a massive centre console and multiple storage options. The rear seats in the CrewMax offered more legroom than first class on an airliner, and they folded up to create a large, lockable cargo area.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500's interior was spacious, with large, supportive seats covered in durable leather. The front seats offered power adjustments and heated and cooled cushions, while the rear seats featured heating and air conditioning vents. The Sierra's cargo bed, enhanced by the CarbonPro Edition, offered significant storage capacity and durability. However, the cab's storage space was less impressive compared to other full-size pickups.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra featured an updated infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with redundant hard buttons and multiple USB ports. The Tundra also offered a JBL premium audio system with 12 speakers.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 boasted numerous camera-based technologies, including a surround-view camera and a rear camera mirror. The optional Technology Package added a 15-inch head-up display and an 8-inch driver information display. The Sierra's infotainment system, available with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, was fast and responsive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available Bose premium sound system was adequate but not exceptional.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Tundra also featured eight airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 offered optional safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Denali trim included blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning. The Sierra's crash-test ratings were less than stellar, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Marginal" ratings from the IIHS.