2023 GMC Sierra 1500 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 exterior design was considered one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks, the interior fell short in material quality compared to competitors like Ram and Ford. Despite being functional, the cabin wasn't as spacious as its rivals, though it offered various trim levels and body styles to cater to different needs, from the basic Pro trim to the luxurious Denali.

In contrast, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update in 2022, featuring a wider grille and updated headlights, maintaining its sharp look. The interior saw a significant departure from its predecessor, with a large screen and a more complex layout, aligning with the trend of making truck cabins more like daily driver cars. The Sierra 1500 offered a range of trims, from the base Pro with a simpler infotainment system to the luxurious Denali Ultimate, which included nearly every feature optional on other trims, showcasing the evolution of full-size trucks into comfortable commuter vehicles.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a 6.6-litre V8 engine, available in both gas and turbodiesel variants, with the latter producing 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. Despite its impressive power, it was outperformed by competitors like the Ford F-250 Super Duty and Ram 2500 in terms of towing capacity. The Sierra 2500HD's Duramax diesel engine, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered abundant power, making it quick for a heavy-duty truck. However, the ride was jittery without a payload, though it improved with added weight. The AT4 trim excelled in off-roading, thanks to its specialized equipment, handling challenging terrains with ease.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four powertrain options, including a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 3.0-litre Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine, the latter producing 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. The Sierra 1500's diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a lively performance, with a towing capacity of up to 5,987 kilograms when properly equipped. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a smooth and composed ride, with impressive handling for a full-size truck, though maneuverability in tight spaces was challenging due to its size.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations and two pickup bed lengths, accommodating up to six passengers. The interior provided ample space, with abundant headroom, legroom, and storage options, including a wide centre console and hidden compartments. The AT4 package added extra lift, making entry a bit challenging, but the side assist step aided traction. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, offered six functions to improve cargo access and loading.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 featured various cab and bed configurations, with the crew cab/short-bed setup providing generous cabin space. The interior included large storage trays, multiple cup holders, and a deep centre storage compartment. The MultiPro tailgate offered multiple configurations, including a bed step-up and fold-out workstation. The Sierra 1500 also featured bed steps in the rear bumper for easy cargo access.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems, with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on higher trims, along with a navigation system and a Bose premium audio system. The Sierra 2500HD also featured 15 camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhancing towing and rear visibility.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came with a 7-inch touchscreen on the base Pro trim, while other trims featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updated infotainment system included Google-connected apps and trailering status apps. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a head-up display were also available on higher trims.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered various driver-assistive features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, allowing parents to monitor their teen's driving habits. Due to its high GVWR, the Sierra 2500HD was not rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane keep assist. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system. The Denali Ultimate trim included a rear-vision camera mirror and a surround-view camera system, enhancing visibility and parking maneuverability.