2023 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2023 Ford F-150

The 2023 Ford F-150 offered a wide array of configurations, making it a versatile choice for buyers with varying needs. It came in regular, extended (Super Cab), and crew cab (SuperCrew) styles, with cargo bed lengths ranging from short to long. The model lineup included eight core trims, from the basic XL to the high-performance Raptor, and a variety of engines. The F-150's exterior design was familiar and appealing, with a blue-gray Area 51 paint colour that stood out. Inside, the truck focused on functionality, with a modular design and quality materials. The available Ford Work Surface upgrade added practicality, though it made the shifter feel flimsy. Cloth seats were a surprising but welcome feature, offering comfort in extreme temperatures.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update in 2022, enhancing its already impressive design with a wider grille and updated headlights. While the exterior changes were subtle, the interior saw a significant transformation, aligning more with daily driver cars and SUVs. The new dash featured a large screen, moving away from the simple layout of its predecessor. The Sierra offered various trims, from the base Pro to the luxurious Denali Ultimate, each with unique features. The Denali Ultimate trim, which we tested, included nearly every optional feature, such as a Kicker sound system, topographical map designs, and massaging front seats. The Sierra's interior was spacious, with ample storage and a versatile MultiPro tailgate.

The 2023 Ford F-150 provided numerous engine options, with our test truck featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6, delivering 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offered smooth acceleration and precise gear selection. The F-150's maximum towing capacity was 6,350 kilograms, with a payload rating of 1,503 kilograms, depending on configuration. The ride quality was mixed, with a harsh feel when unloaded but improved with cargo or a trailer. The truck's handling was secure, and the brakes performed well under stress. Steering was unremarkable but functional, and the cabin remained quiet at highway speeds. Fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 13.8 L/100 km.

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, which we tested. The diesel engine produced 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, providing a lively driving experience. The Sierra's towing capacity reached 5,987 kilograms, with a payload capacity of 1,093 kilograms. The 10-speed automatic transmission kept the diesel engine in its optimal power range, ensuring smooth acceleration. The Sierra's steering was light, and the brakes offered excellent stopping power. The Denali Ultimate trim provided a smooth and composed ride, though maneuverability was challenging in tight spaces. The Sierra excelled in off-road capability with the AT4 and AT4X trims.

The 2023 Ford F-150's interior was designed for practicality, with step rails aiding entry and exit. The XLT trim offered comfortable seating for five, with power-adjustable front seats and pedals. Storage was abundant, with a large bin under the centre armrest, trays, cubbies, and dual glove compartments. The rear seats could be flipped up or folded flat for additional cargo space. The cargo bed featured a spray-in bedliner and the 2.0-kW Pro Power Onboard system, though accessing the bed was challenging without the tailgate step.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, with our test model featuring a crew cab and short bed. The cabin was spacious, with ample head and legroom for both rows. Storage options included large door trays, cup holders, and a deep centre storage compartment. The rear bench folded up for secure storage. The MultiPro tailgate provided multiple configurations, including a bed step-up and workstation. Bed steps in the rear bumper offered easy access to the cargo bed.

The 2023 Ford F-150 XLT came with the Sync 4 infotainment system, featuring a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, though it could benefit from bolder graphics. Voice recognition was excellent, and the standard stereo provided decent sound. Additional features included remote engine starting, trailer-brake controller, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a 7-inch touchscreen in the base Pro trim, while other trims received a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updated system had a logical layout and large icons, though it lacked a tuning knob. Google-connected apps were integrated, offering helpful features like trailering status apps. The Denali Ultimate trim included a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet.

The 2023 Ford F-150 was equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Assist package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and evasive steering assist. The F-150 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and GM’s Teen Driver system. Higher trims, like the Denali Ultimate, included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system. The Sierra also featured a rear-vision camera mirror and a surround-view camera system for improved visibility.