2024 GMC 2500 HD: The GMC Sierra HD pickups possess an extraordinary capacity for pulling immense amounts of weight, but their remarkable capabilities don’t end there. These powerful workhorses also boast an impressive appearance, with gleaming chrome accents on the exterior and a comfortable leather interior. In comparison to the Sierra 1500, which is its lighter counterpart, the Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD models can be described as both large and refined. They offer a higher level of luxury and superior finishing touches when compared to Chevrolet’s Silverado HD offerings.
The base powertrain for these GMC pickups consists of a 6.6-liter V-8 engine generating 401 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. However, for those seeking the maximum conventional towing capability of 22,500 pounds, there is an optional 445-hp Duramax turbodiesel V-8 engine available, also paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Sierra HD also comes equipped with additional features designed to assist with towing trailers, such as Transparent Trailer View, Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert, and the option for adaptive cruise control with trailering. These features allow the Sierra HD to work smarter rather than harder.
While the heavy-duty Sierra may not offer the same level of refinement and maximum towing capacity as its competitors like the Ram HD and Ford Super Duty, it remains a reliable choice for those who have a deep longing for a capable truck.
2024 GMC 2500 HD Review
GMC has made several notable updates to its toughest pickup truck, including visual enhancements, an improved powertrain, and the introduction of new trim. The Sierra HD models now feature a refreshed front fascia with newly available LED headlights and taillights that include sequential turn signals. The 6.6-liter Duramax turbocharged diesel V-8 engine has received a boost in power and torque, now delivering 470 horsepower and 975 pound-feet of torque respectively. This increase in power has resulted in a higher towing capacity across the Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD lineup, with a maximum rating of 22,500 pounds at the hitch.
The previous six-speed automatic transmission paired with the 6.6-liter V-8 gas engine has been replaced with the Allison-certified 10-speed automatic transmission, which was previously exclusive to the diesel engine. Furthermore, an all-new trim level called Denali Ultimate has been introduced for the 2500HD and 3500HD models, offering an even higher level of luxury compared to the popular Denali tier.
The Denali Ultimate trim adds leather-wrapped door panels, a steering wheel, and A- and B-pillar handles. The front seats are 16-way power-adjustable, heated, and cooled with messaging functionality, featuring intricate leather stitching displaying a topographic map of Mount Denali in Alaska.
In addition to these updates, GMC has introduced new trailering technology for the Sierra HD. This includes features like adaptive cruise control with trailering, gross combination weight (GCW) alert, and GM’s Transparent Trailer View, which is now compatible with the gooseneck and fifth-wheel trailering. The standard driver assistance technology has also been expanded for the 2024 model year. The lineup now includes the AT4X off-road trim and an AEV Edition, which comes with steel bumpers, AEV 18-inch wheels, and stronger skid plates.
The 2024 GMC Sierra Heavy-Duty lineup is undergoing significant updates, including redesigned front and rear ends, an updated interior, and the possibility of powertrain enhancements.
It is important to mention that these updates were initially planned for the 2023 models. However, due to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and a shortage of superconductor chips, the product cycle has been delayed. Despite this delay, the fourth-generation Sierra HD pickups continue to perform exceptionally well in the market.
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2024 GMC 2500 HD Specs
The 2024 Sierra 2500HD boasts remarkable specifications that enhance its capabilities as a heavy-duty truck. It offers a range of engine options, including a powerful 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine and a Duramax diesel V8 engine. These engines deliver impressive horsepower, torque, and towing capacity, making the Sierra 2500HD a formidable workhorse.
Redesign and Refresh
GMC has given the Sierra 2500HD a striking redesign for 2024. The front and rear-end designs have been refreshed, giving the truck a more modern and aggressive appearance. Additionally, the interior has undergone a revamp, incorporating high-quality materials, advanced technology, and enhanced comfort features to elevate the overall driving experience.
2024 GMC 2500 HD Interior
The interior of the Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD is characterized by a spacious dashboard that houses user-friendly controls. Most models offer a split-folding front bench, although it can be replaced with bucket seats and a full center console if desired. Additional optional features for Sierra’s interior include a head-up display, heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, and wireless charging.
However, it should be noted that the overall fit and quality of the cabin’s panels are average at best. While there are plenty of soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics, the range-topping Denali trim disappoints in terms of its luxury aspirations.
On the other hand, the new Denali Ultimate trim offers a more luxurious experience with leather-wrapped interior elements, Paldao wood trim, and a soft microsuede headliner. In comparison to the competition, particularly the upscale options from Ram, the GMC Sierra HD falls short in terms of the overall upscale look and feel.
Nevertheless, the Sierra HD will appeal to truck buyers who prioritize practicality and versatility. The crew cab provides ample passenger space, and the interior is equipped with convenient storage cubbies. The standard and long cargo boxes feature built-in steps on both sides and the rear bumper, making it easier to access the bed. Furthermore, the bed can be further customized with LED lighting, movable tie-downs, and a 120-volt outlet.
One of the standout features of the heavy-duty Sierra is its innovative multi-function tailgate, which offers six different positions, including a work surface and a bench. It’s a dream come true for tailgating enthusiasts.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All Sierra HD models come with a standard touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even the base models offer some optional features such as a 120-volt outlet and a mobile hotspot. Most trim levels are equipped with an 8.0-inch screen and additional charging ports. The infotainment systems in all models include a set of rotary knobs and physical buttons that are conveniently placed for easy access.
The larger touchscreen can be upgraded to include built-in navigation, a Bose audio system, a SiriusXM satellite radio, and a rear-seat entertainment system. For the most integrated experience, there is a massive 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen available, which offers features like Google Built-in, split-screen navigation, and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This larger display is standard on the Denali and Denali Ultimate trims.
GMC also provides a smartphone app that allows users to remotely control trailer functions. Additionally, the truck’s infotainment system enables users to store different trailer profiles for monitoring maintenance purposes.
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2024 GMC 2500 HD Exterior
The exterior of the 2024 Sierra 2500HD showcases a bold and rugged design. With its revised front fascia, LED headlights, and taillights with sequential turn signals, the Sierra 2500HD exudes a strong and commanding presence on the road. The available trim levels offer different styling cues and customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their trucks to suit their preferences.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The most powerful version of the Sierra 3500HD has an impressive towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds. However, achieving such massive towing capacities requires specific configurations, including the use of a diesel engine, a regular cab, rear-wheel drive, a dual-rear-wheel axle, and a gooseneck hitch. If equipped with a fifth-wheel hitch instead, the towing capacity of the same truck decreases to 32,000 pounds.
On the other hand, the Sierra 2500HD is only available with a single-rear-wheel axle, and its strongest version can tow up to 22,500 pounds.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sierra HD comes equipped with a standard 6.6-liter V-8 gasoline engine that generates 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and is available in rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations. Alternatively, there is an optional Duramax diesel 6.6-liter V-8 engine that produces 470 horsepower and an impressive 975 pound-feet of torque.
This diesel engine is mated to an Allison-certified 10-speed automatic transmission. The Sierra HD offers the choice of a single-rear-wheel or dual-rear-wheel axle configuration (known as a “dually”) for the 3500 HD models.
While we have only tested an earlier version with the diesel engine, we have experienced the gas-powered powertrain in the internally similar Chevy Silverado 2500HD and found it to be capable and dependable. However, there’s no denying that the Duramax diesel engine is a standout feature of the heavy-duty Sierra, especially for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
The engine delivers surprising refinement, and the transmission is highly responsive. Together, they contribute to impressive acceleration times, as we observed during the testing of the 2500HD Denali. Despite its size, the Sierra HD offers a comfortable ride quality. Although the steering may feel imprecise at higher speeds, the Sierra still exhibits greater agility compared to its heavy-duty rivals.
For those seeking off-road capability, the trail-ready AT4 and AT4X models provide a rugged variation of the Sierra HD. These models feature an off-road suspension, a locking rear differential, and a blacked-out aesthetic, departing from the commonly seen chrome-laden design.
Powertrain
It is anticipated that the 2024 GMC Sierra HD will maintain its current range of engine and transmission options, which include:
- Engine 6.6L L8T V8:
- Gasoline Fuel
- Naturally Aspirated
- 6-Speed Automatic (MYD) Transmission
- 401 @ 5200 Horsepower @ RPM
- 464 @ 4000 Torque @ RPM
- 3.73 Axle
- Engine 6.6L Duramax L5P V8:
- 6.6L Duramax L5P V8
- Diesel Fuel
- Turbocharged Aspiration
- Allison 10-Speed Automatic (MGM, MGU) Transmission
- 445 @ 2800 Horsepower @ RPM
- 910 @ 1600 Torque @ RPM
- 3.42 Axle
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2024 GMC 2500 HD MPG and Fuel Economy
Due to the weight of vehicles like the GMC Sierra HD and other large competitors, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not conduct fuel economy testing on them. Therefore, we can only assess their real-world fuel efficiency based on our own highway fuel-economy route evaluations.
We have specifically tested a Sierra 2500HD Denali equipped with a diesel engine, which achieved 17 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the diesel-powered Silverado 2500 LTZ crew cab and Ram 2500 Tradesmen regular cab, both of which we tested, achieved slightly better fuel efficiency at 19 mpg.
It should be noted that those who opt for the standard gas-powered V-8 engine in the GMC Sierra HD should anticipate even lower fuel economy compared to the diesel option.
Color Options
GMC offers an array of attractive color options for the 2024 Sierra 2500HD, allowing buyers to choose the hue that best reflects their personal style. From classic shades like Summit White and Onyx Black to eye-catching options such as Carbon Black Metallic and Cayenne Red Tintcoat, there is a color to suit every taste.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While the Sierra HD offers the option to equip various driver-assistance technologies, only a portion of them are included as standard features. In comparison, its heavy-duty competitors provide an even greater range of assistance features. However, the GMC Sierra HD stands out with its comprehensive camera system, which offers an impressive 15 different viewing modes.
Notably, it includes a unique “transparent” mode that virtually allows the user to see through a connected trailer as if it weren’t there. For more detailed information regarding the Sierra HD’s performance in crash tests, it is recommended to visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Key safety features of the Sierra HD include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
2024 GMC 2500 HD Price
For the optimal configuration of the Sierra 2500HD, we recommend starting with the crew cab and selecting the standard bed size. In terms of trim level, we suggest going for the SLT model instead of the rugged AT4 or the chrome-laden Denali, despite their visually enhanced features.
With the SLT trim, you can enjoy standard features such as GMC’s versatile MultiPro tailgate, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, power-adjustable front seats, and remote start. Additionally, the SLT trim unlocks more available options compared to the lower-tier SLE trim.
To enhance the SLT configuration, we advise adding four-wheel drive and opting for the diesel V-8 engine. This diesel engine provides excellent performance and towing capability. For further enhancements, we recommend selecting the SLT Convenience package, which includes front bucket seats with ventilated cushions, heated rear seats, and a power-sliding rear window.
Adding the Driver Alert packages is also beneficial as they provide additional assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors. These features contribute to making the Sierra 2500HD more manageable and convenient in day-to-day use.
- Pro $46,295
- SLE $51,095
- SLT $62,395
- AT4 $70,995
- Denali $75,095
- AT4X $90,000 (est)
- Denali Ultimate $93,795
2024 GMC 2500 HD Release Date
The 2024 GMC Sierra HD Production is expected to continue to be assembled at the GM Flint Assembly plant in Flint, Michigan, USA. The exact release date of the 2024 Sierra 2500HD will be announced by GMC closer to its availability in dealerships.
Verdict
the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a formidable heavy-duty truck that combines power, performance, style, and innovation. With its impressive specs, redesigned features, refreshed interior and exterior, powerful engine options, attractive color choices, competitive pricing, and highly anticipated release date, the Sierra 2500HD is poised to be a top contender in its segment. Whether you need a reliable work partner or a versatile companion for your adventures, the 2024 Sierra 2500HD is ready to exceed your expectations.
