2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD 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, which was accentuated by the "Cement" paint colour and blacked-out wheels and badging. Despite its dated design, the Tundra's cabin had contemporary elements, such as a standard 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior was not luxurious but was functional, with all controls within easy reach, making it user-friendly compared to more modern competitors like the Ram 1500.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, boasted a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While the interior was functional, it fell short in material quality compared to competitors like Ram and Ford. The Sierra 2500HD was available in five trim levels, with the AT4 trim offering off-road enthusiasts a rugged, handsome package. The AT4 featured black chrome accents, C-shaped LED lighting, and a premium interior with Jet Black and Kalahari upholstery, making it a luxury off-roader.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra was powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine, producing 391 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a towing capacity of 4,400 kilograms and a payload capacity of 599 kilograms. While the Tundra's towing capacity was lower than competitors like the Ford F-150, its V8 engine delivered strong acceleration and confident performance. The Tundra was comfortable on various surfaces, with a responsive transmission and a traditional shifter design that was intuitive to use.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a choice between a standard gas and an optional Duramax turbodiesel 6.6-litre V8 engine. The Duramax engine, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. The Sierra 2500HD had a maximum payload capacity of 1,637 kilograms and a maximum trailering weight of 8,391 kilograms. Despite not being the most capable in its class, the Sierra 2500HD's powertrain was strong, with the Duramax engine providing abundant power. The ride was jittery when unladen but improved with added weight, and the AT4 trim's off-road capabilities were impressive.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra offered two cab sizes and three bed sizes, with the CrewMax providing a massive interior space. The CrewMax's rear seats offered more legroom than first class on an airliner, and the front seats had ample room with a massive centre console. The Tundra's interior was practical, with multiple storage compartments and cup holders, though not as large as those in other full-size pickups.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was available in three cab configurations and two bed lengths, accommodating up to six passengers. The AT4 package added extra lift, making entry a bit challenging, but the side assist step aided traction. Inside, the Sierra 2500HD offered a wide and deep centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments in the rear seats. The truck featured a 120-volt power outlet, USB ports, and a wireless charging pad, enhancing its functionality. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, offered six functions to improve loading and unloading.

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 offered a seven-speaker stereo on Double Cab trims and a nine-speaker system on CrewMax, with an available JBL premium audio system.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trims. The Denali trim featured a standard navigation system, while other trims had it as an option. The Sierra 2500HD included hitch guidance, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a WiFi hotspot, and OnStar services. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, though the voice-recognition system had some quirks. The Sierra's 15 available camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhanced its towing capabilities.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features included parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Tundra also had eight airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a tow package.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic warning. The Teen Driver system was standard, allowing parents to monitor their teen's driving habits. The Sierra's mass provided safety in collisions, but its weight could cause severe damage to smaller vehicles. The truck's numerous camera views were essential for safety, though it lacked crashworthiness ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.