When shopping for a new GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck, understanding what’s changed from year to year can help you make the best decision. These models represent the latest generation of this popular truck, but there are some important updates worth knowing about. Let’s break down the key differences so you can see what makes each model year unique.

The Sierra 1500 Lineup

All three model years offer a similar range of trim levels designed to fit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a basic work truck or a luxurious daily driver, GMC has created options across the lineup.

Available Trim Levels

2026 Model Year

• Pro
• SLE
• Elevation
• SLT
• AT4
• Denali
• AT4X
• Denali Ultimate

2025 and 2024 Model Years

• Pro
• SLE
• Elevation
• SLT
• AT4
• Denali
• AT4X
• Denali Ultimate

The trim structure remains consistent across all three years, making it easy to compare similar models. Each trim level adds more features and comfort as you move up the ladder.

Engine Options: Evolution in Power

One of the most noticeable changes happens under the hood. The latest Sierra 1500 introduces some fresh engine options that set it apart from older models.

2026 Engine Choices

The new model debuts the TurboMax engine as the standard option on the Pro trim. This turbocharged powerplant pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Moving up the lineup, you’ll find:

• 5.3L V8 engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission available on multiple trims
• 6.2L V8 engine for those seeking maximum power
• Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel engine with a 10-speed automatic, offering excellent fuel efficiency and towing capability

2025 and 2024 Engine Options

These model years featured slightly different engine lineups. The base engines remained turbocharged gasoline units, but they had different designations. The V8 options (5.3L and 6.2L) were available, along with the Duramax diesel option. The introduction of the TurboMax designation represents GMC’s effort to modernize its engine naming and technology.

Technology and Connectivity

The Sierra 1500 continues to push the envelope with enhanced digital features that make driving more connected and convenient.

Infotainment System

All three model years feature an impressive 13.4-inch diagonal touchscreen with a multicolour display. This large screen handles navigation, media, and vehicle settings seamlessly. The latest model emphasizes enhanced Google integration, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play Store for apps.

Digital Driver Information

The 12.3-inch diagonal digital driver information center is available across all three years, providing customizable data on your vehicle’s performance. You can prioritize the information that matters most to you, whether that’s fuel economy, driving diagnostics, or trip information.

Camera Systems

A significant upgrade in the latest model involves the camera technology. The Sierra 1500 offers up to 14 different camera views, compared to earlier models. This expansion gives drivers much better visibility when parking, maneuvering through tight spaces, or towing a trailer. The system helps prevent accidents and makes difficult maneuvers easier to manage.

Advanced Driving Features

Super Cruise Hands-Free Technology

This is a major highlight of the new model year. Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance is available on the latest Denali and higher trims. This advanced system uses cameras, LiDAR mapping, and GPS to keep your truck centred in its lane, maintain your set speed, and even handle lane changes automatically on compatible highways.

What’s particularly impressive is that Super Cruise works while towing—a rare feature among pickup trucks. This makes long highway drives with a trailer less fatiguing.

The older models offered Super Cruise as an available feature, but it came with a trial period. The new models have expanded the availability of this feature across more trim levels.

ProGrade Trailering System

All three model years offer the available ProGrade Trailering System, which combines intelligent technologies to make towing easier. The system includes:

• In-vehicle trailering app with helpful information
• Integration with the myGMC mobile app for trailering features
• Multiple high-definition camera views for towing situations
• Trailer detection and management tools

This system helps whether you’re hitching up, backing a trailer into position, or monitoring your load while driving.

Interior Comfort and Materials

Seating and Climate Control

The Sierra 1500 maintains the excellent seating options found in earlier models. Higher trims feature:

• 10-way or 12-way power heated driver seats with power lumbar support
• Heated steering wheel for cold mornings
• Heated and ventilated front passenger seats
• Leather appointment options on mid to upper trims

The older models offered similar seating comfort, with heated and cooled seat options available. The new model refines these features slightly for improved ergonomics.

Interior Design

The Denali and higher trims showcase premium materials. You’ll find authentic wood trim, patterned aluminum accents, and forged perforated-leather seating surfaces. The older models used similar materials, though the new year continues to emphasize quality craftsmanship.

Off-Road and Performance Capabilities

AT4 and AT4X Trims

The AT4 trim comes with a 2-inch factory lift, off-road suspension, and Rancho monotube shocks. Both the latest and earlier models include this serious off-road capability.

The AT4X trim (available on all three years) stands out with features like:

• Front and rear electronic locking differentials
• Multimatic DSSV dampers for superior handling
• AEV stamped steel front bumper with winch capability
• 16-way power heated and ventilated front seats with massage

These off-road models ensure you can tackle challenging terrain confidently.

Towing and Hauling Capacity

All three model years offer impressive towing capabilities:

• Pro trim: Up to 4,500 kg (10,000 lbs) towing capacity
• SLE/Elevation/SLT trims: Up to 6,000 kg (13,200 lbs) towing capacity
• AT4 trim: Up to 4,100 kg (9,000 lbs) towing capacity
• Denali trim: Up to 4,250 kg (9,400 lbs) towing capacity
• AT4X trim: Up to 4,000 kg (8,800 lbs) towing capacity

The diesel-equipped models in each year offer these capabilities, while some gasoline engines may vary slightly. The new model maintains these same capacities, showing consistency in the truck’s hauling abilities.

Safety Features

All three model years prioritize your safety with modern features:

• HD Surround Vision for excellent visibility around your truck
• Lane Change Alert with side blind zone alert to help prevent accidents
• Driver monitoring systems on higher trims
• Multiple airbags, including head airbags
• Anti-lock braking system with stability control

The latest model enhances these with better camera integration and improved alert systems.

Exterior Styling Updates

While the overall design remains familiar, the Sierra 1500 refines some exterior elements. All three years feature:

• LED headlamps for better nighttime visibility
• LED fog lamps on available the trims
• Chrome accents on mid and upper trims
• Monochromatic exterior options on Elevation trim
• Available power retractable running boards for easier entry

The latest model carries forward the modern, purposeful styling that distinguishes the Sierra 1500 from competitors.

Choose Your Model Year

Pick 2026 If You Want

• The latest TurboMax engine technology
• Enhanced Super Cruise availability across more trims
• The most advanced camera and technology suite
• Newest styling refinements
• Latest safety features and connectivity options

Consider 2025 If You Want

• Proven reliability from a model year in the market longer
• Strong feature set that includes most modern technologies
• Potential for better dealer incentives
• Familiar platform with an excellent track record

Look at 2024 If Budget Is a Priority

• Older model years may offer better pricing
• All the core features you need in a modern truck
• Excellent reliability and proven performance
• Slightly simpler technology that some prefer

Which GMC Sierra 1500 Is for You? 

The GMC Sierra 1500 models represent an excellent generation of pickup trucks with impressive capabilities and comfort. The new model brings welcomed improvements in technology and engine options, while the older models offer proven reliability and strong feature sets.

Your choice depends on your priorities. If you want the absolute latest in technology and hands-free driving capability, the latest model excels. If you value a proven track record and potential savings, the middle model offers great value. And if budget is your main concern, the oldest model still delivers everything a modern truck should.

Whichever year you choose, you’re getting a capable, comfortable pickup truck built to handle serious work and daily driving with equal competence.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.