When it comes to pickup trucks, it’s all about the numbers. In this article, we are going to spend some time looking at the 2500 models from two of the world’s most prestigious truck manufacturers. Here is the 2019 GMC Sierra 2500HD vs 2019 Chevy Silverado 2500HD. Which of these two heavy lifting pickups will come out on top?
Performance
Since we’re already talking numbers here, let’s dive right into what these two monster pickups are capable of.
GMC Sierra 2500HD
The 2019 Sierra 2500HD uses every inch of space at its disposal to maximize storage room and power. To start, let’s take a look at the gross vehicle weight rating, also known as GVWR. For those who aren’t familiar, the GVWR means the maximum operating weight or mass of a vehicle. This includes everything on the car but excluding external weight such as trailers. With that explanation out of the way, we can say that the Sierra 2500HD’s GVWR clocks in at an impressive 10,000 LBS and offers a max payload capacity of 3,276 LBS.
In addition to its impressive raw power, the GMC Sierra 2500HD offers a variety of valuable additions to make hauling and towing more accessible and convenient than ever before. The first of these options is the Stabilitrak and hill start assist systems. By using an electronic detection system, the SierraHD improves stability by detecting and reducing traction loss. This allows the driver a bit more extra time to switch from the brake pedal to the accelerator on steep grades. Be sure to tow with complete confidence no matter how large the load.
Another handy feature on the GMC Sierra 2500HD is the available gooseneck and fifth-wheel prep package which includes a box-mounted seven-pin harness, a bolted in lace hitch platform and drilled box holes to accommodate fifth-wheel hitch mounting brackets.
Chevy Silverado 2500HD
Looking at the Chevy Silverado’s specs, one of the first things we notice is that its overall payload capability falls just short of the GMC Sierra. Also, when you look at the GVWR, it falls short of the GMC Sierra by 500 LBS, coming it at only 9500. Okay, so the Chevy Silverado isn’t off to the strongest start here. For a vehicle dedicated to big numbers and raw power, falling short of your competitor in multiple categories is a rough way to kick things off. But shortcomings aside, the Silverado does bring some interesting features to the table. Let’s take a look.
One of the innovative features found on the Silverado 2500HD is the high-tech braking system. The 2500HD offers a diesel exhaust brake that uses engine compression to reduce the amount of conventional braking needing when you’re carrying large loads downhills. It also uses four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife rotors. These tried and true products feature increased hardening to help prevent warping and provide corrosion resistance to sustain their overall longevity. Lastly, the Silverado features the unique integrated trailer brake controller, which seamlessly integrates with your trailer brakes during regular braking as well as with the trailer sway control system. This allows you to have excellent control over your load at all times, even in tough conditions.
Interior
Okay, now that we’ve got the numbers and raw power facts out of the way, it’s time to step inside the truck, turn on the radio and relax a little. Here’s a close look at the luxury interiors that will make you feel right at home no matter how tough the going gets.
GMC Sierra 2500HD
In addition to their attention to performance, GMC makes sure to use every opportunity to make the Sierra 2500 as comfortable and convenient as possible.
The unique all-terrain interior features exclusive front leather-appointed bucket seats with red accent stitching, a heated steering wheel, unique sill plates, and an all-weather floor liner. The Sierra also uses triple door seals and hydraulic body and engine mounts to lessen road vibrations and keep your space clear of outside noises. The result is an incredibly quiet and soft ride that will help maintain a peaceful sanctuary regardless of what kind of commotion is going on outside.
Chevy Silverado 2500HD
Looking again to the Silverado 2500HD, we again see more shortcomings, now in terms of its interior and comfort design. The technological implementations and conveniences are fairly minor here, especially for a higher trim level. The Silverado features steering wheel controls, USB ports and a multimedia infotainment system for your devices. While all of these things are certainly helpful, they are pretty much standard on any vehicle made in 2019.
In addition to these features, the Silverado also offers firm foams seats that provide consistent comfort and support, as well as quiet cabin technology similar to that on the GMC Sierra. Again, while these are all fine conveniences, most of them don’t really stand apart from the competition in 2019.
A Clear-Cut Winner
Now that we’ve broken down two key areas of interest in both the 2019 GMC Sierra 2500HD and the Chevy Silverado 2500HD, it’s not difficult to see that the Sierra pulls out ahead in the two areas where it really counts.
To start, the Sierra is quantifiably superior to the Silverado in some of the most important performance categories when it comes to a pickup truck. Trailering capability, max load capacity, and the gross vehicle weight rating are all points that go to the Sierra at the end of the day. Now if you ask any seasoned truck driver which traits are most important on their pickup, these stats are sure to be near the top of the list.
Next are the interior and comfort, which also clearly goes to the Sierra. With more unique features and as much attention to interior detail as to raw power, the Sierra’s balance between the two simply can’t be beat. The Silverado makes an admirable effort through tried and true interior standards, but when it’s stacked up next to the Sierra, it simply falls short.
So, if you do agree that the Sierra 2500HD is a great truck and want to check one out for yourself, the next step is to get out there and take a look. Be sure to visit your local GMC dealer to talk to see how their team of professionals can help you get behind the wheel and drive one home for yourself.
