Comparing GMC Sierra 1500 Vs. 2500 HD Side By Side: Specs, Size & More

GMC Sierra 1500 Vs. 2500

The powerful new GMC Sierra pickups are here, so now is the time to compare the GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD to find out which of these work-ready truck models is right for your needs and lifestyle. The key differences between these two GMC pickups entail their standard and available powertrains, dimensions, and available bed sizes. We'll cover these differences and more below as we look at the Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD side by side.


GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Specs: Engine Options

GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Specs: Engine Options

Comparing the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD shows that these models have different engine lineups. Still, both offer multiple powertrain configurations to meet various needs for towing and other challenging tasks. The new Sierra 1500 light-duty model comes standard with a GMC TurboMax engine, producing 430 pound-feet of torque and 310 horsepower. When properly equipped with the Crew Cab, Short Bed, and 2WD, this 2.7-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine and accompanying eight-speed automatic transmission enable the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 to tow up to 9,500 pounds.

Other 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 engine options include:

  • 5.3-liter V-8: 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque
  • 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6: 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque
  • 6.2-liter V-8: 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque

In contrast, the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD, or heavy-duty model, comes standard with eight-cylinder power in the form of a 6.6-liter gas V-8 engine. With 464 pound-feet of torque and 401 horsepower on tap, the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Crew Cab Standard Box 2WD model can tow up to 20,000 pounds.1

The standard 6.6-liter gas V-8 and the available 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel V-8 are both paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission that can handle these powertrains' incredible power output. Opting for the Duramax Turbo-Diesel V-8 in a new Sierra 2500 HD brings a big boost in power and capability, reaching 975 pound-feet of torque and 470 horsepower.

Regarding 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD gas mileage, the EPA has only tested the light-duty model thus far. The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro Crew Cab Short Bed 2WD returns up to an EPA-estimated 18/22 MPG (City/Highway)2 rating.


2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro Crew Cab
Short Bed 2WD
2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Pro Crew Cab Standard Bed 2WD
Towing Capacity9,500 lbs120,000 lbs1
Cab SizeCrew CabCrew Cab
Bed SizeShort BedStandard Bed
Exterior Length231.94 in250.75 in
Exterior Width81.24 in81.85 in
Exterior Height75.6 in79.82 in
Engine2.7L Turbo I-46.6L V-8
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty/Hwy)18/222N/A
Fuel Tank Capacity24 gal36 gal
Transmission8-speed automaticAllison 10-speed automatic

GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Cab Sizes

GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Cab Sizes

Both the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD and the Sierra 1500 models are available in the following three cab styles for your consideration:

  • Regular Cab
  • Double Cab
  • Crew Cab

The Regular Cab models are best as dedicated work trucks for a one-person team, as they feature only one row of seating and can be paired with the Standard Bed or Long Bed in the 1500 model (and only the Long Bed in the 2500 HD model), providing maximum cargo-hauling capabilities.

The most spacious option is the popular Crew Cab. It boasts four full-size doors and generous second-row legroom. If you're looking for something in between, there's the Double Cab, with four doors, including two smaller rear doors.

Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Dimensions

Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Dimensions

The dimensions of the new Sierra 1500 and Sierra 2500 HD models you'll find in stock at Butler GMC of Charlton or your local GMC dealer vary depending on your selected cab style and bed size. The cab and bed combination will give you an accurate look at the exterior dimensions of these pickup trucks.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 model measures from 211 inches long in the Regular Cab Short Bed configuration to 241.5 inches when optioned with the Crew Cab and Standard Bed.

The larger 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 model starts at 236.3 inches long with the Regular Cab and Long Bed and stretches to 266.8 inches in length in the Crew Cab and Long Bed configuration. Do you still have questions about how their dimensions compare? We welcome you to contact us for answers.


GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD Interior Features

The GMC brand has outfitted both of these pickup truck models with premium interiors, boasting some of the same key features that make GMC pickups a popular choice.

Some of the highlights of either model's interior include available amenities like:

  • 13.4-inch touch screen
  • 12.3-inch digital Driver Information Center
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay®
  • Up to 13 available camera views
  • Bose® premium sound system
  • 16-way power front seats with massage feature

Discover the Difference Between GMC Sierra 1500 and 2500 HD Trucks

When you're ready for a closer look and in-person comparison of the GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD, stop by Butler GMC of Charlton or your closest GMC dealer. We regularly offer competitive Sierra 1500 lease deals if you decide to go with this popular light-duty pickup truck.

You can also find attractive offers on GMC heavy-duty models here. So, remember to view our latest Sierra 2500 HD lease specials if you're leaning toward this even more capable model for your next work truck.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much longer is a GMC 2500 HD than a 1500?

At its maximum length, the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD truck can measure up to 266.8 inches long in the Crew Cab Long Bed model. The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 light-duty pickup is up to 241.5 inches long when optioned with the Crew Cab and Standard Bed. Visit your local GMC dealership to compare the lengths of these two GMC truck models more closely in person.

What is the towing capacity of the GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2500 HD?

The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 towing capacity reaches 9,500 pounds when properly equipped with its standard 2.7-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine and accompanying eight-speed automatic transmission, Crew Cab body, and Short Bed. The new 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Crew Cab Standard Box 2WD truck for sale or lease tows up to 20,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Is the body of a 2500 HD bigger than a 1500?

The available cab sizes of the GMC Sierra 2500 HD and Sierra 1500 are the same size, as they both offer Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab styles. However, the Sierra 2500 HD model often provides a longer bed, or box, on the back of its various cab styles. So, this heavy-duty model is typically bigger and longer than a comparable GMC Sierra 1500 light-duty model.


Make an Inquiry

* Indicates a required field


      1Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.

      2EPA-estimated mpg for the 2.7-liter turbo with eight-speed automatic and 2WD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov