The Sierra 2500HD is designed to tackle tough jobs that would humble an ordinary pickup. Even so, it's a civilized beast that can handle comfort-hungry passengers just as well as their trailers and cargo.
What's New for 2016
Most configurations receive a new digital assist steering unit for sharper handling. The IntelliLink infotainment system gets additional features, including greater smartphone integration. A remote locking tailgate joins the equipment list.
Choosing Your Sierra 2500HD
Like all full-size GM pickup, the 2500HD comes with a three-person Regular Cab, a Double Cab with a full-length backseat and narrow rear doors (hinged in the front), or a Crew Cab with full-size rear doors and extra rear legroom. The Regular Cab gets an 8-foot bed only, while the Double and Crew can also get 6.5-foot bed. Rear bumpers feature corner steps for easier access to the bed.
6.5-foot Bed | 8-foot Bed | |
Regular Cab | N/A | Standard |
Double Cab | Standard | Optional |
Crew Cab | Standard | Optional |
The standard 6-liter V8 produces 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. You can order a bi-fuel version of the same that runs on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG). When running on CNG, the engine puts out 301 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque. Both versions are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
For maximum grunt, GMC offers a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 with 397 horsepower and a pavement-rippling 765 pound-feet of torque. The turbodiesel gets a heavy-duty six-speed automatic and exhaust braking.
All 2500HDs start out with rear-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive is available across the board.
To assist with towing, all models come with trailer sway control, automatic grade braking and integrated cruise control that automatically adjust to load weight. Properly equipped, the 2500HD can tow up to 17,900 pounds and haul 3,760 pounds.
The 2500HD is available in four trim levels: Base, SLE, SLT, and luxurious Denali:
The SLE and above are eligible for Driver Alert Package with forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a vibrating safety alert seat.
The WT isn't nearly as austere as it used to be, so it can make a perfectly acceptable personal vehicle with a few options added. Even so, the more scalable SLE remains the best overall value for mixed use.