2023 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2023 Toyota Tacoma

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 maintained its sharp exterior design with a wider grille and updated headlights, following a styling update in 2022. While these changes were more of a lateral move, the interior saw a significant transformation. The cabin shifted towards a more complex setup, featuring a large screen and a new infotainment system, which some found unnecessarily complicated for a work truck. The base Pro trim retained a simpler interior, while higher trims like the Denali Ultimate offered luxurious features such as full-grain leather and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma presented a more compact and assertive stance, appealing to those who found full-size trucks too large. The Tacoma offered a variety of trims, including the off-road-oriented TRD Pro, which featured a unique grille, TRD-tuned suspension, and underbody skid pads. Inside, the Tacoma ranged from basic to well-appointed, with the TRD Pro trim offering Softex leather-trimmed upholstery and heated front seats. Despite its rugged appeal, the Tacoma's interior felt a bit outdated compared to its competitors.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four powertrain options, starting with a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The optional 3.0-litre Duramax diesel engine delivered 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque, providing a lively driving experience. Two V8 options were also available: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The Sierra's towing capacity reached up to 5,987 kilograms, and it offered a smooth and composed ride, although maneuverability in tight spaces was challenging.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma, on the other hand, came with a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. While it offered decent acceleration in city driving, the Tacoma struggled to reach highway speeds quickly, and engine noise was noticeable. The TRD Pro's off-road suspension handled rough city streets well, but its steering felt vague. Fuel economy was not a strong point, with the TRD Pro delivering 14.4 L/100 km in winter conditions. Despite increased competition, the Tacoma's performance felt somewhat dated.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, with the crew cab/short-bed setup providing ample cabin space and storage options. The interior featured large storage trays, cup holders, and a deep centre console. The MultiPro tailgate added versatility with multiple configurations, including a bed step-up and fold-out workstation. Bed steps in the rear bumper provided easy access to the cargo area.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma also offered multiple configurations, with the access cab featuring clamshell-style doors and a long bed, while the double cab provided more comfortable seating and easier access. However, rear legroom was tight in both configurations. The front seats offered decent space, but the steering wheel's limited extension posed challenges for taller drivers. The Tacoma's bed was spacious enough for gear and equipment, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a 7-inch touchscreen in the base Pro trim, while higher trims received 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, although its placement was less convenient.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma's technology was not class-leading, with a 7-inch touchscreen in base trims and an 8-inch touchscreen in higher trims. It offered Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the interface was simple, it felt outdated compared to competitors. The Tacoma's premium JBL audio system and USB ports provided adequate tech features, but it lacked the advanced options found in other trucks.

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 offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system. The Denali Ultimate trim included a surround-view camera system and parking sensors, enhancing safety and maneuverability.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma featured Toyota Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The TRD Pro trim added blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera. However, the Tacoma lacked lane-keeping assist and rear automatic emergency braking. It received four out of five stars in NHTSA crash tests, missing top marks in frontal crash and rollover tests.