GMC Sierra 2500HD vs Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was a massive presence on the road, available in various configurations including regular, double, or crew cabs with a choice of seven-foot or eight-foot beds. It was offered in six trims: Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, High Country, and the off-road-specific ZR2. The truck's size was imposing, with a wheelbase reaching up to 4.25 metres and an overall length of 6.7 metres. Each trim had distinct front fascia styling, from the plain yet handsome Work Truck to the chrome-laden LTZ and High Country. The ZR2 stood out with its blacked-out grille and unique Chevrolet “flow tie” badging. For 2024, Chevrolet added standard tow hooks and wheel options up to 22 inches, along with ten colour choices, though the palette was somewhat conservative. The High Country trim impressed with its upscale interior featuring open-pore wood, leather, and metal trim, while the ZR2 offered rugged off-road capabilities.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was a striking vehicle, especially with its large grille that gave it a commanding road presence. Finished in Onyx Black with an Alpine Umber tan interior, it rode on 20-inch aluminum alloys with gloss black inserts. The Denali Ultimate trim was available only in a six-passenger Crew Cab configuration, with a choice between standard and long bed lengths. The updated front bumper and grille assembly, along with standard LED headlights and taillights, added to its modern look. The MultiPro Tailgate was a standout feature, offering six configurations for added versatility. The Denali Ultimate's interior was luxurious, with full-grain leather, a microsuede headliner, and wood trim. The power-operated running boards and ample interior space made it comfortable for long journeys, while the massage function in the seats added a touch of luxury.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came standard with a 6.6-litre V8 gas engine producing 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque. An optional 6.6-litre Duramax turbodiesel V8 was available, delivering 470 horsepower and a remarkable 975 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. The Duramax diesel was notably quiet and well-matched to the transmission, providing smooth shifts and quick acceleration. The Silverado 2500HD offered standard rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available on most trims. Fuel efficiency varied, with the truck returning 11.6 litres per 100 kilometres in 2WD and 13.8 L/100 km in mixed driving. The ZR2 Bison package enhanced off-road capabilities with Multimatic DSSV spool valve shocks, 35-inch tires, and a 3.8-centimetre lift, providing excellent ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was powered exclusively by a 6.6-litre Duramax turbocharged diesel V8, producing 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Denali Ultimate featured a locking rear differential, two-speed transfer case, and all-terrain tires, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The powertrain was refined, with strong highway passing power and minimal diesel clatter. Handling was influenced by the truck's size, but it remained agile in traffic. The firm ride was designed for towing and hauling, though rough roads could unsettle the suspension. During a 1,600-kilometre test, the Denali Ultimate demonstrated its capability, though parking required extra space due to its size.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD excelled in towing and hauling capabilities. While the 3500HD model could tow up to 16,330 kilograms with a gooseneck trailer, the 2500HD's maximum towing capacity was 10,175 kilograms, with our tester closer to 8,600 kilograms. Payload capacity varied, with the 2500HD capable of hauling up to 1,680 kilograms, though our tester was rated at 1,360 kilograms. Towing was made easier with advanced camera views, including a transparent trailer camera and a 360-degree view. The MultiFlex tailgate offered versatility, serving as a desk, bed extender, or step. The High Country trim featured heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort on long drives. However, the audio system was limited to six speakers.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate offered a luxurious interior with full-grain leather, wood trim, and a microsuede headliner. The power-operated running boards and spacious cabin made entry and exit easy. The front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with a massage function, while the rear seat provided ample legroom and headroom. Storage was abundant, with a large centre console and optional locking safe. The Denali Ultimate's interior was designed for comfort on long journeys, though accessing items in the front door pockets was challenging. Overall, the Denali Ultimate combined luxury with practicality, making it a top choice for those seeking a premium truck experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD featured a 12.3-inch configurable gauge cluster and a 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard from the LT trim. The system was user-friendly, with Google built-in for navigation and access to the Play store and Google Assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though the screen was always in split-mode. Charging options were plentiful, with USB ports, wireless charging, and a power outlet. A 15-inch head-up display and rear camera mirror enhanced visibility. However, the Silverado lacked an on-board generator, which would have added versatility for job sites.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate boasted a 13.4-inch touchscreen and a host of tech features, including a 15-inch head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The navigation system was sharp and accurate, while climate controls remained accessible via buttons and dials. The steering-column-mounted gearshift stalk obstructed part of the screen, but the Denali Ultimate offered extensive trailer aids, including a trailer-brake controller and ProGrade trailering system with 14 camera views. These features made towing easier and safer, enhancing the truck's overall functionality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered standard safety features such as front pedestrian braking, forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and a following distance indicator. The GM Safety Seat provided tactile alerts to prevent collisions. Adaptive cruise control was optional, even on the High Country trim, and could be used while towing. The Buckle to Drive feature and Teen Driver technology added safety for younger drivers. However, the Silverado had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate came standard with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. Optional features included front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view parking camera, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring, all standard on the Denali Ultimate. The large power-operated side mirrors provided excellent visibility, enhancing safety during towing and daily driving.