Overview

What's New for 2023

Slotting in size and strength between the standard Sierra 1500 and the ultra-heavy-duty Sierra 3500HD, the 2500HD is available in regular, extended, and crew cab body sizes, and customers can select from either standard or long cargo beds. GMC makes available five trims: Pro, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali.

Pricing begins at around $41,200 for the Pro model, with an automatic transmission, steel wheels, a full-size spare tire, a backup camera, daytime running lights, a tow hitch, vinyl upholstery, bench seats, air conditioning, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and Bluetooth phone and music streaming compatibility.

The SLE ($46,500) adds alloy wheels, power/heated mirrors, cloth upholstery, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The SLT is where things start to get genuinely premium. Retailing for around $56,100 and available in extended and crew cab styles, the SLT has fog lamps, power-folding mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, driver's seat memory, remote engine start, push-button ignition, dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and HD Radio.

The off-road AT4 only comes as a crew cab, and four-wheel drive is standard. Priced from $64,100, it comes with all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, a raised suspension, Rancho shocks, an Eaton locking rear differential, ventilated front bucket seats, heated rear seats, and off-road driving modes.

The top-of-the-line Denali comes as a crew cab with four-wheel drive. It has a $70,600 MSRP and features blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and rear parking sensors. Other amenities include a universal garage door opener, a premium audio system, and navigation.

The Sierra 2500HD offers two engine choices; one gas and one diesel. A 6.6-liter gas V8 is standard across all trims, making 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. For $10,000 more, buyers can get the Duramax 6.6-liter diesel V8 that generates 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque; it's mated to a 10-speed Allison transmission.

The gas V8 offers the highest-available payload capacity, at 3,979 pounds. But while it makes do with a max towing capacity of 14,500 pounds, the diesel can pull 18,500 pounds when properly equipped. For some, that extra strength will justify the diesel's hefty fee. Some rivals offer better capacity, but the Sierra 2500HD still provides more than most shoppers need.

The Sierra 2500HD has a large and practical cabin. Its tall ride height, vertical center stack, and chunky controls give the 2500HD a rugged appeal. There are storage spots around the interior, with a deep center console and dual glove compartments. Passenger space is excellent throughout the cabin.

The Sierra 2500HD's 8.0-inch infotainment system is well-placed and easy to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making it a breeze to connect a smartphone. GMC makes available great towing apps like hitch guidance, jack-knife alert, and a trailer-length indicator.