The 2023 model year brings an exciting and fresh combination of strength, utility, and adaptability to both the GMC Sierra 2500 HD and the 2023 Ram 2500, two well-appreciated heavy-duty pickups. Both are quite versatile and work for a variety of uses, whether recreational such as camping, or professional such as delivery and construction. The wise buyer will bear their differences in mind, however, since performance, gas mileage, hauling capacity, towing power, aesthetic elements, convenience features, and comfort all must be considered when deciding on a vehicle to meet individual desires and needs. Choosing the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD vs. the 2023 Ram 2500 isn’t an easy choice, but looking at both in detail may make the decision easier.
Function and Power
The base-model 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD comes standard with 6.6L V8 engine outputting a whopping 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque. It justifiably earns a reputation as one of the workhorses of the truck market, as the beastly strength of the engine accelerates smoothly, towing heavier payloads and climbing steeper inclines steeper with greater ease than many competitors. The 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 also has an available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 engine. If a buyer chooses this option, they will be rewarded with an output of 445 horsepower and an astounding 910 lb-ft of torque.
One can’t forget the sheer strength of the 2023 Ram 2500 as well. It boasts a base model powered by a standard 6.4L V8 engine that offers 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. It also offers an optional diesel engine, an inline-6 Cummins Turbo-Diesel making 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. This makes the 2023 Ram 2500 a perfect fit for those seeking to tow especially heavy loads or fill the bed with especially large cargo.
One could conclude that the Sierra 2500 HD and the Ram 2500 have similar horsepower in their base models, leaning slightly in the Ram 2500’s favor. In the torque department, however, the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 is a standout by leaps and bounds. Its standard engine already outperforms the Ram, but the 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 leaves Ram’s six-cylinder engine behind. Thus, if one is looking to climb steep terrain or tow at heavy capacity, it is worth considering the Sierra 2500.
Who’s in It for the Long Haul and “Tows” the Line?
The 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD and the 2023 Ram 2500 are just about neck and neck in the realm of towing and hauling. Towing capacity for the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD is 18,510 when properly equipped, and the payload weight maxes out at 3,979 pounds, also when properly equipped.
In comparison, the 2023 Ram 2500 tows an impressive 20,000 pounds when properly equipped. Its payload capacity is estimated at 4,010 pounds when properly equipped. Thus, either truck would prove very useful for a diverse variety of tasks, whether lugging weighty work equipment for construction or even bearing the weight of a larger RV or camper for recreation.
Technological Features
The technological and safety-focused features of 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD also deserve notice. Buyers may be gratified to note the rearview camera, boldly colorful information display for the driver, and a gamut of assistive technologies that make driving this powerhouse a breeze.
The 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD offers an available suite of trailering assist tools known as the Prograde Trailering System. This suite includes such useful utilities and conveniences as the ASA Electronics iN∙Command Control System with Global Connect. When compatible trailers are equipped with this technology, elements such as the levels in the water tank and HVAC controls are accessible to the driver via the myGMC Mobile App. This technology is worth looking into for drivers looking to make long journeys and camping easier.
Comforts and technological conveniences also abound in this year’s Ram 2500, including available upgrades such as a 12-inch touchscreen display and a more advanced sound system.
Much like the Sierra 2500, the Ram 2500 also offers various driver assists for an easier journey.
One element that really stands out about the 2023 Ram 2500 is the new available suite known as the Digital Cluster. This also features available advanced trailering technology such as Trailer Light Check, Trailer Brake Status and Tow Specific Navigation. All of these display important trailering information in colorful 3D on the available Driver Information Digital Cluster. Off-roaders should also take note of the available Off-Road Pages feature, which monitors pitch, roll, traction, and more.
Elements of Safety
Available safety features for the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 include a following distance indicator, forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross traffic alert. The RAM 2500 also has some excellent safety features such as the available adaptive forward lighting system for greater visibility and the available Rear Seat Reminder Alert feature so cargo and people do not get left behind. Safety-conscious consumers thus will likely be satisfied with either vehicle, knowing they and their cargo will arrive safely to their destination.
Decisions, Decisions
The final summation when comparing the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD and the 2023 Ram 2500 is that both well-loved heavy-duty trucks offer massive towing power, advanced technology, capacity, versatility, and sheer rugged strength. Ultimately, the potential driver should examine which strengths and drawbacks best fit their personal lifestyle.
Brute strength is the name of the game for this year’s GMC Sierra 2500 HD. Its impressive delivery of 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque from the standard 6.6L V8 engine is not to be scoffed at. It outstrips many in its class when it comes to stability and towing power, hauling even over road conditions that prove less than ideal, as well as managing rough terrain for off-road driving. In addition, the 910 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 engine is the standout winner in this category.
If comfort and convenience is what a buyer seeks, the 2023 Ram 2500 will definitely serve well. The standard 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque make it a towing champion, while conveniences such as the available 12-inch touchscreen display and premium sound system provide hours of comfort and entertainment for road tripping.
The Ram 2500 can tow slightly more, while the GMC Sierra 2500 HD has a greater payload capacity. Thus, one might say that the Ram may be worth consideration for recreational or agricultural drivers with large campers or trailers, while the GMC Sierra is well-suited to hauling heavy items.
Both also have excellent safety features. This includes driver assistive features that may well improve security on the road. In addition, advanced trailering features impress both for work and recreation.
Finding the right truck for any particular buyer is a very personal decision, as any fans of the heavy-duty class would agree. Thus, when choosing between the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD and the 2023 Ram 2500 one’s own priorities must be considered. Whether seeking function or fun, versatility, power, or comfort, convenience or sheer workhorse strength, there just may be room for one of these two beauties to come home with any shopper with a discerning eye.
