The Sierra HD comes in one of several different body styles with long and short bed options. However, despite this complexity there are only two available engines, both V8 units displacing 6.6 liters. The gasoline option is paired to a 6-speed automatic and makes 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque. The more expensive diesel engine is aided by a turbocharger and makes 445 horsepower and a massive 910 lb-ft of torque. Unlike the gasoline engine, the diesel is mated to a 10-speed automatic to handle all that torque. When properly equipped, a Sierra HD 3500 should be able to tow up to 35,000lbs with a 5th wheel attachment, or 20,000 lbs with a traditional trailer hitch, thanks in large part to the massive torque produced by its diesel V8. Sierra HD models are available with either rear-wheel drive of selectable four-wheel drive.
The Sierra HD comes in either 2500 form or 3500 form with 3500 versions offering a bit more towing capacity and payload because they can be optioned with a "dually" setup, giving the truck an extra pair of wheels on the rear axle. Both trucks can be optioned with a regular cab, a double cab featuring four conventional doors, or a crew cab with even bigger rear seats. Truck beds are either 6'9" or 8' depending on configuration, though the only restriction to bed size is in the regular cab version, which always comes with the longer bed.
In addition to copious options for the basic architecture of the truck, Sierra buyers are also offered plenty of choices when it comes to the tech in their new vehicle. GMC's ProGrade Trailering system features fifteen camera views to help keep an eye on things behind the truck, even counting a class exclusive transparent trailer view among its features. The available heads up display on the Sierra HD is massive, measuring 15-inches across, while the rear-view mirror can be switched between displaying an actual mirror and the view from the rearward facing camera. GM claims their MultiPro tailgate is the world's first six-function tailgate. In practice that means it's easy to load things into and out of the back of the truck, while also providing a ton of utility options for carrying loads with the tailgate dropped. It also has a built-in step to make it easier to climb in and out of the bed of the truck.
Concentrating on off-roading capabilities, 4AT models come standard with four-wheel drive along with a more off-road biased suspension setup that includes Rancho Shocks. Other standard features on the 4AT include skid plates, an Eaton locking differential, Michelin all-terrain tires, a heads-up display, GMC's HD Surround Vision camera system, hill descent control and an off road mode.
Most buyers though, will probably opt for the Denali version of the Sierra HD. Available in both 2500 and 3500 forms, Denali versions of the Sierra HD come standard with the bigger crew cab, body colored front and rear bumpers, LED lights in the cargo bed, tinted glass, LED headlights, daytime running, front fog and taillights, powered external mirrors, a MultiPro tailgate, UltraSonic front and rear parking sensors, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Alert with Automatic Braking, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Following Distance Indicator and Hill Descent Control (HDC).
The Denali Interior features include, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay\Android Auto connectivity, an 8-inch infotainment screen and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8 speaker Richbass sound system, dual-zone climate control, heated front and rear seats, vented front seats, a heated steering wheel, keyless start and wireless device charging.
Towing Capacity
Interior Space
Well Thought Out Technology
Available Off-road Equipment
Powerful Engine Options
Upscale Denali Edition
For 2021, the Sierra HD lineup is introduced with more wheel options, more exterior color choices and some new technology as standard on various trims.
The GMC Sierra HD competes with the RAM 2500 and 3500 as well as the Ford F-250 and F-350. The Sierra costs a bit more than its competitors, but it comes with a bigger and more powerful engine than the Ford, while the Dodge is significantly cheaper for the stripped down "Tradesman" trim level. In addition to its robustness, the Sierra comes with a ton of tech to make trailering easier, including an available camera system that utilizes no fewer than fifteen cameras. Meanwhile, those who want all that functionality with a good dose of comfort, will find no better truck than the upscale Denali versions of the Sierra HD.
