If you’re seeking an added touch of comfort that sets the GMC Sierra apart from the immensely popular Chevy Silverado, look no further. Devotees of the Sierra have eagerly anticipated the updates coming with the 2025 model year. So if you’re eagerly awaiting the 2025 Sierra, stay tuned as we unveil how the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 is worth waiting for these six huge reasons.
6. Only Turbo Diesel Option in the Lineup
As diesel options become increasingly scarce, truck enthusiasts face limited choices. Ram discontinued its EcoDiesel for the 1500 in 2023, and Toyota has never offered a diesel option. If you’re in the market for a half-ton pickup with a diesel engine, the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 stands alone as your best bet. Ford has also removed their Power Stroke options for the F-150, making the GMC Sierra 1500 the go-to choice for diesel power in the new model year.
This is where the GMC Sierra 1500 shines as it can still be optioned with a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 Duramax, affectionately known as Baby Max. This turbo diesel is perfect for those needing to tow heavy loads without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Unlike other brands which require you to upgrade to heavy-duty models for a diesel engine, GMC still provides a turbo diesel option in their half-ton GMC Sierra. If this interests you, don’t delay. You can option a turbo diesel powertrain for all trims except the very base Pro Trim.
In terms of power and fuel economy, the 3.0L Duramax does not disappoint either. It produces 305 horsepower at 3750 RPMs and 495 ft-lb of torque at 1500 RPMs. This efficient engine also gets 29 MPG on the highway and 23 MPG in the city, which is quite impressive for a full-size pickup truck.
Now, these are EPA figures, but some users have reported getting an MPG figure in the mid-30s with their trucks. So this is the engine you should be getting if you’re going to be putting a lot of miles on your truck. Also, this engine has the highest tow rating as well, so you will be getting the best of both worlds.
Read – 5 Exciting Features of the 2025 Ford Super Duty
5. A Good Old-Fashioned V8 Still Available
GMC’s base engine option for the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 is the same turbocharged 2.7L inline-4 cylinder found in the GMC Canyon. While it might seem underpowered for such a large truck, it delivers a respectable 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel economy, the Sierra with this base engine achieves an estimated 20 MPG combined.
If you prefer a reliable naturally aspirated engine without the complexity of turbos, GM offers two V8 options for the 2025 Sierra 1500. First up is the popular 5.3L Ecotec V8, a favorite in many other GM vehicles. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3L V8 delivers 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, achieving a combined 18 MPG.
For those craving maximum power, the 6.2L V8 is the way to go, offering a whopping 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. However, this power comes with a caveat: the 6.2L V8 requires premium gas at the pump, unlike the 5.3L Ecotec which runs on regular gas. This means you’ll face lower fuel economy and higher costs at the pump. With rising gas prices, consider whether the extra power is worth the added expense.
Check Now – 2024 Outlander: Why You Shouldn’t Overlook This Surprising Contender!
4. Spartan Interior with All the Luxuries
The Sierra’s front seats are incredibly plush, even more so than those in the F-150 and Ram 1500, making them perfect for long road trips. On the highway, the ride is generally smooth, absorbing most small bumps well. The climate control system heats and cools the cabin efficiently, although operating it can be tricky due to the small control buttons. We really appreciate the heated split front seats, a GM exclusive feature which offers separate settings for the seatback and seat cushion.
Engine noise is nicely muted unless you floor the throttle, which is actually great because if you’re driving a massive truck you’ll want to hear it roar. The front seats offer ample headroom, shoulder room, and leg room. The crew cab Sierra’s back seat is absolutely huge, comfortably fitting three full-size adults side by side. Both the driver’s seat and the steering wheel have a wide range of adjustments, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position for drivers of all heights.
Now, those who don’t like the trend of moving essential controls to the infotainment screen will like the Sierra’s latest interior control layout. The knobs, buttons, and switches are easy to find and satisfying to use.
The touchscreen boots up quickly and responds well to commands. Shorter drivers may struggle to see over the truck’s hood, and the thick side pillars can also obstruct sight lines. Thankfully, an excellent surround-view camera system is available to help with visibility.
Must Read Article – 10 Must-Know Facts Before Buying the 2025 Toyota Crown!
3. All the Technology You Could Need
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 shines when it comes to technology features. Its available 13.4-inch touchscreen offers extensive capabilities without overwhelming the user, and the high-resolution display responds swiftly to presses and swipes. The maps are crystal clear, and the navigation quickly finds addresses and points of interest. Plus, the Google-powered voice recognition system comprehends natural language and displays your commands on the screen. You can use your voice to change the station, adjust the climate control, and more.
All the trims of the Sierra 1500 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, both with wireless connectivity. CarPlay looks fantastic on the huge screen. There’s a dedicated spot for your smartphone, and some models even include a wireless charger.
Driver aids are plentiful, with several exterior cameras available to assist with parking this massive truck. The rear cross-traffic warning system, with its seat-bottom buzzes, is very effective. Adaptive cruise control generally performs well, especially for such a large vehicle. GM’s hands-free driving assist technology, Super Cruise, is available but only on the top-tier Denali Ultimate trim.
Article for you – 2025 Toyota Corolla Pickup: A Game-Changer You Can’t Ignore!
2. A Highly Capable Off-Road Trim
In 2025, GMC offers an off-road trim for all kinds of scenarios, from those who are looking to do light-duty off-road work to full-on rock crawlers. In the Sierra 1500 lineup, the AT4 sits just above the SLT. It boasts a 2-inch factory lift with off-road suspension and Rancho monotube shocks, perfect for tackling tough terrain. Underbody skid plates, front tow hooks, and Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac mud-terrain tires enhance its rugged appeal.
The four-wheel-drive system features a two-speed Autotrac transfer case and an automatic locking rear differential. Buyers can choose between a short bed and a standard bed, with engine options including a 3.0L Duramax turbo diesel and a 6.2L gasoline V8, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Duramax is particularly appealing for its superb torque at lower revs, making it useful for technical off-road maneuvers or towing.
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X elevates both capability and refinement. It offers more features than the AT4 but with fewer customization options. For example, the AT4X is only available with a short bed. Visually, this Sierra stands out with a unique front grille featuring dark nickel inserts and a stamped steel front bumper capable of supporting a winch. It also includes a hot-stamped boron steel front approach skid plate, which is 3.5 times stronger than cold-stamped steel.
The Goodyear tires switch to a Wrangler Territory model in a 33-inch size. Ground clearance remains the same, but the approach, breakover, and departure angles are all improved. The chassis benefits from specialized off-road tuning, including renowned Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers that provide excellent off-road performance and impressive on-road comfort.
For added luxury, the truck features heated and ventilated 16-way power front seats with a massage function. They’re truly amazing. Additionally, specially tuned springs increase maximum suspension travel both front and rear.
1. Many Trims for All Kinds of Budgets
Just like the 2024 model year, the trims for 2025 will remain unchanged, with the Pro trim as the base and the Denali Ultimate at the top. Let’s dive into each trim level to see what each one offers over the others.
Starting at $40,500, the base Pro trim comes with a 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as standard. However, you can opt for the 5.3L Vortec V8 if you prefer more power.
Next is the SLE trim, priced at $51,500. It includes the larger 13.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster as standard. With this trim, you can also choose a highly sought-after 3.0L Duramax turbo diesel paired with a 10-speed Allison transmission.
The SLT trim, starting at $57,000, features a 5.3L Vortec V8 standard, along with added luxury and comfort amenities.
For those who occasionally hit the trails, the AT4 trim, starting at $67,500, offers the Duramax turbo diesel as standard. It’s the lighter off-road trim, perfect for adventurous drivers.
The AT4X, on the other hand, is priced at $83,000 and is the ultimate off-road beast.
The Denali trim, starting at $67,000, is designed for those who crave luxury and comfort. It offers an optional heads-up display, leather upholstery, and wood interior trim for a classy experience.
Finally, the Denali Ultimate is the crown jewel of the 2025 GMC Sierra lineup, starting at $83,500. This trim comes with a powerful 6.2L V8 as standard. It features a special black chrome grille, 22-inch wheels, a premium Bose audio system, and 16-way power-adjustable seats with a massage function. It’s designed to offer the ultimate luxury for towing and hauling, albeit with a heavy price tag.
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 is set to impress with its extensive lineup of trims, each offering unique features tailored to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for power, luxury, off-road capability, or advanced technology, there’s a Sierra trim that will meet your needs. As diesel options dwindle and the market for versatile, powerful trucks grows more competitive, the Sierra 1500 stands out as a top choice for discerning drivers.
