2024 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2023 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 maintained its sharp exterior design, which had been updated in 2022 with a wider grille and modernized headlights. While these changes were more of a lateral move, the interior saw a significant transformation. The cabin shifted towards a more car-like experience, featuring a large screen that replaced the simpler layout of its predecessor. This change was not universally appreciated, as it added complexity to what was once a straightforward truck interior. The base Pro trim retained the older infotainment system, appealing to those who preferred simplicity, while higher trims offered more advanced features.

In contrast, the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 continued with minimal changes, maintaining the same trim levels as the previous year. The exterior design followed the bold styling trend, with a tall hood and broad grille that made parking challenging. The Denali and Denali Ultimate trims featured a large chrome grille and optional 22-inch wheels, while the AT4 and AT4X models focused on off-road capabilities. Inside, the blocky design persisted, and even in the Denali Ultimate trim, the materials were unremarkable. However, the truck offered numerous creature comforts, including heated and ventilated seats, a power sunroof, and dual-zone climate control.

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. A 3.0-litre Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine was also available, delivering 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. Two V8 options included a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-litre V8 generating 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a smooth and lively driving experience. The Sierra's towing capacity reached up to 5,987 kilograms, with a maximum payload of 1,093 kilograms.

For 2024, the GMC Sierra 1500 retained similar powertrain options. The base model featured the 2.7-litre TurboMax engine with 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3-litre and 6.2-litre V8 engines continued to offer 355 hp and 420 hp, respectively, with Dynamic Fuel Management for improved fuel economy. The 3.0-litre Duramax diesel engine remained a standout, providing ample torque for towing and smooth power delivery. The AT4 model now came standard with the diesel engine, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Sierra's chassis maintained a comfortable ride, though it couldn't match the refinement of a luxury SUV.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, including a regular cab with a standard or long bed, a double cab with a standard bed, and a crew cab with either a short or standard bed. The crew cab/short-bed setup provided ample cabin space, with generous head and legroom for both rows. The interior featured large storage trays and multiple cup holders, while the rear bench folded up for additional storage. The MultiPro tailgate offered multiple configurations, including a bed step and workstation, and all trims included bed steps for easy access.

In 2024, the Sierra 1500 continued to offer multiple cab and bed configurations, with dimensions matching its Chevy Silverado sibling. The crew cab provided spacious front headroom and legroom, though the rear seats were less comfortable for long trips. The Multi-Pro tailgate remained available on SLE and higher trims, offering six configurations for added versatility. The CarbonPro bed, available on select models, provided a durable cargo solution. Towing capacity ranged from 4,173 kilograms for 4WD turbo-four models to 5,987 kilograms for diesel trucks, with the Sierra slightly trailing the Silverado in maximum towing capacity.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the base Pro model, while higher trims received a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity and Google Built-In features. The updated infotainment system offered a logical layout with large icons, though it lacked a tuning knob. The Denali Ultimate trim included a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel was standard on all trims except the Pro, complementing the available head-up display.

In 2024, the Sierra 1500's base Pro model retained a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, while SLE and higher trims featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.4-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In features. The Google-based interface provided seamless integration with Google apps, though Apple CarPlay remained available for non-Android users. The user experience was intuitive, with large icons and minimal touchscreen taps required. Analog controls for audio, climate, and seat functions were retained, ensuring ease of use.

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, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The Denali Ultimate trim included GM's Super Cruise driver assist system, providing hands-free highway driving and lane changes. The rearview camera mirror enhanced visibility, while parking sensors and a surround-view camera aided in maneuverability.

In 2024, the Sierra 1500 received mixed results in IIHS testing, with "Good" scores in some crash tests and "Marginal" in others. NHTSA testing awarded the crew cab models a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and a rear-seat reminder. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and GM's Safety Alert seat. Super Cruise remained available on Denali and Denali Ultimate models, offering hands-free driving with active lane-change capabilities.