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Published May 11, 2022

Should I buy a GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado?

Which General Motors truck is the best?

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Chevrolet Silverado driving on a road in the desert.

If you’re debating whether to buy a Silverado or a Sierra pickup, you might think they’re similar vehicles but although they’re popular General Motors siblings, they still have their differences. Both pack a range of powerful engine options, safety features and four-wheel and two-wheel drive options. They do have a similar look and feel and both are equally adept at tackling tough terrain.

However, when comparing the GMC Sierra vs. Chevy Silverado, you’ll notice that they differ in towing capacity and other specs. Since both pickup trucks are great options, deciding which to purchase can present a bit of a conundrum. This page examines the difference between Silverado and Sierra to help you compare the two stellar performers before deciding.

GMC Sierra vs. Chevrolet Silverado

The 2021 models of the Silverado and Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, feature a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and providing a torque of 460 lb-ft. The two trucks also enjoy 10-speed automatic transmission.

However, even though the two pickup trucks have identical mechanics, the Silverado returns better fuel economy ratings than the Sierra. The Silverado also has a higher towing capacity of 13,300 pounds, while the Sierra has 11,800 pounds. Nonetheless, the Sierra is a little less budget-friendly in its price offering.

2021 GMC Sierra

From $30,100

Engine: 6.2-liter engine

Miles per gallon: 16 mpg city in the city, 21 mpg on the highway

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

From $29,300

Engine: 6.2-liter engine

Miles per gallon: 20 mpg city in the city, 23 mpg on the highway

Silverado vs. Sierra: Safety features

General Motors has always emphasized how seriously it takes safety technologies across its vehicle range. So, whether you go for a Sierra or a Silverado, both offer a robust option primed for road security and packed with a host of additional safety features. Some of the safety features in the 2021 models include:

  • Forward collision alert with automatic crash mitigating brakes
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Blind zone alert
  • Front and side-impact air bags
  • Hitch guidance system
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Rear cross-traffic alert system
  • Enhanced trailering assist, including rear and side views, trailer length indicator and jack-knife alert

In addition, the Silverado has a bed view camera and daytime running lamps.

Silverado vs. Sierra: Reliability
Image shows a blue GMC Sierra driving a highway in the mountains and alongside a lake.
GMC Sierra pickup truck.

A reliable truck is one that doesn’t need more than the usual repairs, like changing the oil and fixing the tires, while an unreliable one could end with you stuck at the side of the freeway facing a costly repair bill. When it comes to reliability, the Sierra scored a higher rating than the Silverado according to J. D. Power, with the trucks scoring 85 and 82 out of 100, respectively. Earlier Silverado models are sometimes prone to hard shifts, surging and jerking as well as brake issues, but the 2021 truck has a smooth, responsive transmission. The Sierra can, on occasion, struggle when it comes to its brakes, and it has been reported to have power equipment and in-car electronics issues.

Silverado vs. Sierra: Interior and Infotainment

The interior of these two pickup trucks are very similar. However, the Sierra holds a slight advantage in terms of luxury and comfort which is more evident in the latest trims. For example, the 2021 Sierra 1500 is built with sound-absorbing technology in the dashboard and carpet. When it comes to technology features, both the 2021 Chevvy Silverado 1500 and the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 come equipped with 8-inch infotainment displays, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can stream your favorite music apps on the road. While both models share a host of innovative tech and entertainment options, you’ll find certain features standard in more Sierra models.

Silverado vs. Sierra: Cargo space

The Silverado and Sierra offer identical cargo space. Both trucks can accommodate up to six passengers and there’s room for a long bed configuration with up to 8.1 cubic feet of cargo volume.

Buy a GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado from EchoPark

Made your decision? You can buy both a used GMC Sierra or a Chevrolet Silverado from EchoPark and pick up the truck of your dreams for less.

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