GMC Sierra 2500HD vs Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was a sight to behold, especially for those who appreciated a commanding road presence. Its massive grille and towering stature gave it an imposing look, reminiscent of an 18-wheel tractor trailer. Our test model, finished in Onyx Black with an Alpine Umber tan interior, rode on 20-inch aluminum alloys with gloss black inserts, adding to its menacing appearance. The updated front bumper and grille assembly, along with standard LED headlights and taillights, further enhanced its bold design. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a six-passenger Crew Cab with two cargo bed length options, and the versatile MultiPro Tailgate added functionality with its six different configurations.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty embraced its massive size with styling elements that accentuated its bulk. Measuring 60 centimetres longer than a Chevrolet Suburban, the F-250's grille spanned the entire front fascia, creating a formidable presence on the road. Our Platinum trim tester, equipped with the Platinum Plus package, featured chrome elements and amber rooftop marker lights, adding a touch of utilitarian flair. The Tremor Off-Road package further enhanced its rugged appearance with a raised ride height, off-road running boards, and 35-inch all-terrain tires. Inside, the F-250 continued the industrial theme with blocky cockpit elements and luxurious materials, including quilted leather seats and elegant micro mesh metallic trim.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was powered by a 6.6-litre Duramax turbocharged diesel V8 engine, delivering 470 horsepower and an impressive 975 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, the Sierra offered smooth acceleration and strong highway passing power. Its handling was dictated by its size, requiring ample space for maneuvering, but it remained agile in city and highway traffic. The firm ride and tough suspension settings were designed for towing and hauling, though rough roads could unsettle the unladen suspension.

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered a range of powertrain options, including a high-output Power Stroke 6.7-litre turbodiesel V8 producing 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. With a 10-speed automatic transmission and available four-wheel drive, the F-250 excelled in towing, with a maximum capacity of 10,430 kilograms when equipped with a fifth-wheel gooseneck. The Tremor Off-Road package enhanced its off-road capabilities but reduced towing capacity. The ride quality was firm and bouncy, typical of heavy-duty pickups, but the high-output diesel provided ample power for acceleration. Steering was vague, requiring constant attention, and handling was challenged by body roll.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate boasted a luxurious interior with full-grain leather seats, leather-covered door panels, and a microsuede headliner. Power-operated running boards made entry easy, and the spacious cabin offered superb stretch-out room and in-cabin storage. The front seats were wide, supportive, and equipped with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The rear seat provided limo-like legroom and ample headroom, accommodating three adults comfortably. Storage options included a large centre console and a locking safe, though front door pockets were less accessible.

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered generous front seat space, with adjustable pedals and ample lateral room. The crew cab's rear seats were bench-like, providing sufficient legroom, though the panoramic sunroof rails limited headroom for taller passengers. Storage was abundant, with a large phone tray, cupholders, and a cavernous centre armrest bin. The Pro Power Onboard system turned the F-250 into a mobile generator, powering interior outlets and additional bed outlets. The power tailgate and integrated step facilitated bed access, while the retractable hard tonneau cover protected cargo.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen, a 15-inch head-up display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The navigation system was sharp and accurate, and the climate control system was conveniently placed below the touchscreen. Trailer aids included a trailer-brake controller, hitch guidance, and the ProGrade trailering system with 14 camera views, enhancing towing capabilities.

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty Platinum trim came with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12-inch digital instrument panel. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system simplified trailer maneuvering, while additional camera views and Ford's Onboard Scales aided towing. The 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system provided potent bass, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The wireless charging pad was available on higher trims.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate came standard with active safety features like automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning. Optional features included pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and a surround-view parking camera, all standard on the Denali Ultimate. The power-operated side mirrors provided an expansive view, enhancing safety.

The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty lacked crash test results but offered standard trailer sway control. Safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were standard on the XLT trim, while higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keep assist was less effective, but adaptive cruise control functioned smoothly.