GMC Sierra 2500HD vs RAM 2500

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was a striking presence on the road, with its massive grille and imposing stature that rivalled even the largest vehicles. Finished in Onyx Black with an Alpine Umber tan interior, it rode on 20-inch aluminum alloys with gloss black inserts, giving it a menacing appearance that commanded attention. The updated front bumper and grille assembly, along with standard LED headlights and taillights, added to its modern look. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a six-passenger Crew Cab with two cargo bed length options, and the versatile MultiPro Tailgate provided six configurations for various cargo needs.

In contrast, the 2025 RAM 2500 was equally bold, with a huge vertical grille that seamlessly blended into the hood and body sides. The new split headlight design and redesigned taillights gave it a fresh look. The face of the Ram 2500 varied by trim, with the Tradesman featuring black plastic, while higher trims like the Power Wagon and Rebel boasted premium finishes and unique grille designs. The Laramie trim introduced luxury elements such as leather seating and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The Limited Longhorn and Limited models offered cowboy-themed or understated interiors, respectively, with options for dark exterior accents.

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, it offered smooth acceleration and strong highway passing power. The truck's size dictated its handling, but it remained agile in city and highway traffic. The firm ride and tough suspension settings were ideal for towing and hauling, though rough roads could unsettle the unladen suspension.

The 2025 RAM 2500 featured a standard 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine with 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing up to 4,100 kilograms. However, the majority of buyers opted for the revised 6.7-litre Cummins turbocharged diesel engine, now standard in its High Output spec, producing 430 hp and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. The new eight-speed automatic transmission and five-link rear suspension design provided a composed ride, while optional air suspension packages allowed for load compensation. The Ram 2500 excelled in off-road capabilities, with the Power Wagon and Rebel models offering exceptional rock-crawling performance.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate boasted a luxurious interior with full-grain leather seats, leather-covered door panels, and a microsuede headliner. The front seats were wide, supportive, and equipped with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The rear seat offered limo-like legroom and ample headroom. Storage space was excellent, with a spacious centre console and optional locking safe. However, accessing items in the front door pockets proved challenging.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered various cab configurations, including Regular Cab, Crew Cab, and Mega Cab, each with its own towing and payload ratings. The Crew Cab provided ample space for adult passengers, while the Mega Cab offered maximum legroom. Towing capabilities varied by configuration, with the Cummins diesel engine allowing for up to 9,000 kilograms of towing capacity. The Ram 2500's payload capacity ranged from 710 kilograms in the Power Wagon to 1,780 kilograms with the Hemi V8 engine.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen, a 15-inch head-up display, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a wireless charging pad, and Google built-in. The ProGrade trailering system provided 14 camera views, including Transparent Trailer View, enhancing towing safety and convenience.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12-inch or optional 14.4-inch screen on higher trims. A separate screen for the front passenger was available, along with a 12.3-inch digital cluster. The rearview mirror could be replaced with a screen showing multiple views, and the infotainment system included Trailer Tow Pages for storing trailer settings.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate came standard with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view parking camera. The power-operated side mirrors provided an expansive view, enhancing safety during towing.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking as standard features. Higher trims included park assist sensors, adaptive steering, and active lane management. Optional camera technologies, such as a surround-view camera system, enhanced safety during towing. The NHTSA awarded the Ram 2500 a four-star rating.