When it comes to the world of the heavy-duty pickup truck, there's an expectation that any model will deliver on performance, not to mention the ability to move mountains. However, it's seldom that these qualities share the same space as the refined sophistication normally reserved for a luxury sedan. Well, if that's the mold of the usual conception, then GMC is the brand that shatters it completely with the Sierra 2500 HD.
With trim levels that emphasize off-roading, luxury, and the ability to handle some serious heavy lifting, GMC once again proves its mettle as one of the most reliable brands of the GM family. Let's take a closer look at the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD, a masterclass in luxury and capability at the high end of heavy-duty.
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Every truck is predominantly judged by its capabilities, and these all root back to the powertrain. For GMC, this has always been an area of unsurpassed expertise, and what the Sierra has underneath the hood is certainly no exception. Similar to its sibling, the Chevy Silverado 2500 HD, the Sierra comes with two distinctive powertrains that allow for levels of performance largely unmatched in the industry.
The standard offering for the Sierra takes the form of a gasoline-powered 6.6L V8. Extremely capable of delivering the goods in all the right places, you'll have the benefit of 401 hp and the ability to generate 464 lb-ft of torque. The engine in question is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and, when properly equipped, can pull an astonishing 17,370 lbs. Meanwhile, its payload weight is rated at 3,979 lbs—nearly two tons!
If it's more you're looking for, then more is what you'll receive with the second available powertrain; helmed by a 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8, this engine is for those who ascribe to the philosophy of "go big or go home." Not only do the eight cylinders propel the Sierra forward with an astounding 445 hp, but they produce an unparalleled—and almost unbelievable—910 lb-ft of torque. This performance is further accentuated with the addition of GM's ten-speed Allison automatic transmission. Altogether, the Sierra 2500 HD's Duramax Turbo-Diesel has a towing capacity of 18,510 lbs, and its ten-speed Allison automatic allows for enviable low-key crawling.
Of course, performance isn't only limited to powertrains and towing capability. One of the most unique recent improvements made for the Sierra is the addition of the AT4 trim. Similar to how the Denali editions of GMC vehicles are geared toward those who favor luxury and sophistication, the AT4 is specifically made for those who look upon the world of off-roading as a lifestyle rather than a necessity of the job. With Hill Descent Control—a ride control system that electronically enforces a set speed limit to avoid accidental runaways—and under-chassis skid plates, any mountainous terrain you wish to conquer is easily tamed. To fully embrace the off-roading attributes many drivers look for, the AT4 is also equipped with a specially designed suspension—for following the path less traveled—and high-grade Rancho shocks. With over ten inches of ground clearance, those obstacles that might have hindered your journeys in the past are no longer an issue.
The positive attributes of the Sierra's performance aside, the interior is where you'll be spending most of your time, and sitting behind the wheel of the Sierra is certainly a rewarding experience. Whether you're looking for the high-end of luxury or merely want a comfortable place to sit during your travels, GMC ticks every box possible to afford you an experience unlike any other. If GMC is the result of combining the performance and prowess of Chevy with the upper-class sophistication of Cadillac, then the interior of the Sierra 2500 HD is the living embodiment of this union.
Like many other vehicle designs that are commonplace in the industry, the interior of the GMC Sierra is anchored by the vehicle's infotainment center. Many trims have an eight-inch display that provides a wealth of features that are meant to both enhance the driving experience and entertain as well. Apple and Android compatibility is standard, as are a 120-volt outlet, Bluetooth connectivity, and a wireless hotspot that ensures you're always in the loop. The position of the aforementioned infotainment touchscreen is an ergonomic choice, as the Sierra places its interfaces close together to allow the driver to remain focused on the road and still have the various controls at their fingertips. And yet, despite the proximity of these items, there's still more than enough space to stretch out and get comfortable.
Depending upon your preference for comfort, there's a way to get the most out of the Sierra. While every trim level delivers exceptional quality within the cabin and interior, the Denali trim is recommended for those who want the full-on luxury experience. With leather upholstery and heated and ventilated seats, GMC places you right into the lap of luxury. The Sierra's technological features see improvements, too, as in the voice-activated navigation, a high-end seven-speaker stereo system from Bose (which includes a subwoofer), and Sirius XM Radio. The higher trims even include a compass in the instrument cluster, purely for the sake of confident orientation! Think of it this way: the next time you hear someone refer to the GMC brand as the "Cadillac of pickup trucks," you can confirm as much with tales from first-hand experience.
If one thing rings true for every driver, it's that safety is paramount. GM is one of the most respected brands in the country, and no matter which company of theirs you opt for—be it GMC, Chevy, Buick, or Cadillac—you can always rest assured that you're getting the very best in safety tech and driver assistance features.
GMC delivers a solid one-two combination of safety and driving assistance features meant to increase security, provide oversight, and help you keep an eye on the things that matter most. Because the GMC Sierra 2500 is often utilized by those who carry heavy loads, an increased effort on trailering safety has been emphasized for the 2023 model year. This takes the form of the Hitch Guidance system, relying on your Rear Vision Camera for easier hookups and detachment when in reverse. And for those long trips with a trailer in tow, higher trims have an available Auxiliary Trailer Camera whose Transparent Trailer View provides more oversight than ever before; this digitally removes the trailer in your display, allowing you to gauge the full scope of the road behind you while you're traveling. With a total of 15 different viewing angles available, you'll be able to maximize visibility no matter the road conditions.
Aside from the increased emphasis on aiding the trailering types, a host of other features exhibit the high level of protection GM offers its clientele. The available Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking are both essential in maximizing reaction time, and the Following Distance Indicator ensures that you'll have enough space to implement reactionary maneuvers if the situation calls for it. You'll also benefit from OnStar connected services—available on the base trim and standard on all others. As one of the leading security and theft recovery systems, you'll be keeping yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle safe and secure at all times.
Like all vehicles manufactured by GM, the Sierra also comes with the Teen Driver program. Geared toward those who have younger drivers in their home, this ensures that the next generation of drivers are utilizing the responsible habits you're teaching them. The vehicle owner can customize its drive settings to respond to a particular key fob, limiting some vehicle features while automatically enabling others. The vehicle can then produce an after-drive report card so you and your child can together study their suggested areas of improvement.
Please note: The safety and driving assistance features included with the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD will assist you on the road and provide additional oversight, but they do not replace the effective habits and awareness of a responsible driver. It is your duty to maintain focus on the road at all times and obey traffic laws.
The act of merging uncompromising performance with unparalleled sophistication might have once seemed like an impossibility for some. But, as we've seen, GMC manages to do this year after year, providing the very best options to the customers who depend on them. While this merging is part and parcel of the GMC brand, at Jim Ellis Buick GMC of Atlanta, we believe in our own merging—one that combines unbeatable selection and outstanding service.
We do this because of the high standards that GM has spent over a century establishing, and we know that our customers expect the very same from any dealership that carries their fare. Whether you need help selecting the perfect GM model, need to have routine service performed, or need assistance obtaining financing, we're here to help.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
