2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

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 its design was subjective, many considered it one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks. However, the interior did not quite match the exterior's appeal. Material quality, especially in top trims, lagged behind competitors like Ram and Ford. The cabin, though not cramped, was less spacious than its rivals. The Sierra 2500HD offered five trim levels, each with distinct features, from the basic Pro trim to the luxurious Denali. The AT4 trim, which we tested, was off-road-focused, featuring black chrome accents, C-shaped LED lighting, and a rugged yet luxurious interior with Jet Black and Kalahari upholstery, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a premium sound system.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty underwent a visual evolution rather than a complete redesign. It offered six trim levels, from the work-oriented XL to the luxurious Limited. The XL trim provided basic comforts, while the XLT added more features like cloth upholstery and heated front seats. The Lariat introduced modern comforts such as leather upholstery and a digital instrument cluster. Our test model, the King Ranch, was a luxury truck with 20-inch alloy wheels, a two-tone paint job, and less chrome than previous versions. The interior featured two-tone brown leather seats with saddle leather and stitching, an 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo, and several auxiliary switches. The Platinum and Limited trims offered similar comforts with more cosmopolitan styling and additional features like max-recline seats and a dual-panel sunroof.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a 6.6-litre V8 engine, available in both gas and turbodiesel variants. The Duramax diesel engine, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. Despite its impressive power, it was not the most capable in its class. The Sierra 2500HD's maximum payload capacity was 1,637 kg, and it could tow up to 8,391 kg. The AT4 trim excelled in off-roading, with features like an automatic-locking rear differential, a two-speed transfer case, and all-terrain tires. However, the ride was jittery on uneven pavement, improving with added weight.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered four engine options, including a base 6.8-litre gas V8 with 400 horsepower and a high-output PowerStroke turbodiesel V8 with 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission managed power efficiently, making the truck lively from a standstill. The Super Duty's towing capacity reached 18,140 kg with the right configuration, while the F-250's max towing was 10,430 kg. Ford's Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist made towing easier. Despite its size, the Super Duty was manageable in traffic, though its turning radius required attention in tight spaces.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations and two bed lengths, accommodating up to six passengers. The interior provided ample space, with abundant headroom, legroom, and storage options. The AT4 package added extra lift, making entry a bit challenging, but side assist steps aided traction. The centre console was spacious, and the truck featured dual glove boxes and hidden storage compartments. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, offered six functions for improved cargo access.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty came in regular cab, SuperCab, and Super Crew configurations, with two bed lengths. The SuperCab's rear-hinged doors provided a wide opening but required the front doors to be open. The test model featured a Warn winch and bed steps for easy access. Inside, the Super Duty offered numerous cupholders, a massive centre storage bin, and dual glove boxes. The Super Crew's rear seats folded up for additional cargo space.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD featured a range of infotainment systems, with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on higher trims, and a navigation system was available. The Bose premium audio system delivered rich sound, though the voice-recognition system had quirks. The Sierra offered 15 camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhancing towing and visibility.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty's base infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Our test model had a 12-inch screen with wireless connectivity and a logical control layout. The truck featured multiple USB ports, a wall-style power outlet, and wireless charging. Ford's Trailer Navigation optimized routes based on trailer dimensions, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, helping parents monitor their teen's driving habits. The Sierra's mass provided safety in collisions but posed risks to smaller vehicles and pedestrians. Due to its high GVWR, it was not rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty, starting at the XLT trim, included the Ford CoPilot 360 suite with features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The parking camera system was crucial for a vehicle of its size. The test model had power-adjustable trailer mirrors and a trailer blind-spot monitoring system. Like the Sierra, it was not crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.