2026 GMC Sierra 2500 will be a breakthrough that represents the subtle changes we anticipated regarding the carry-over model year, the eighth model year of the fourth-generation truck series.
In fact, the last one before the launch of the next-generation Sierra for the 2027 model year will likely be the 2026 Sierra model.
- MSRP: From $46,300
- Engine: 6.6 L V8, 6.6 L V8 diesel
- Horsepower: 401 to 470 hp
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Towing capacity: 14,500 to 18,500 lbs
- Dimensions: 236-267″ L x 82″ W x 80-83″ H
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Review
This model is so premium that it is very graceful at night when driving to entertainment venues. The 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 HD can also handle the toughest tasks during the day. Prices for this unit are expected to start at $48,295.
We think the 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 is one of the most reliable workhorses in its class; it’s capable of doubling as a show pony for date nights and family vacations, equally suitable for stopping by the valet table at a 5-star restaurant, hauling bricks to the job site, or towing a boat on the lake.
Properly equipped and capable of towing up to 36,000 pounds, it won’t get away with hard work but can be downright luxurious in its Denali and Denali Ultimate trims.
What New
Having a major update for 2024, the Sierra HD rolls into the new model year with few changes. Most notable is the downward migration of its adaptive cruise control with trailering assist from the AT4X and Denali Ultimate trims to the AT4 and Denali grades.
Currently, all trims include a basic trailer brake controller. Now adding front and rear park assist, the entry-level Pro class and next-generation SLE class now pay more attention to safety.
Key Feature
- Multipro™ Tailgate
- Duramax® 6.6l Turbo-Diesel V8 Engine With 975 Lb.-Ft. Of Torque And 470 Hp
- 3500 Max Towing Of Up To 36,000 Lbs.
- Trailering-Assistance Technologies Than Any Competitor In Its Class
- 14 Available Camera Views
- 16-Way Power Front Seats With Massage Feature
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Specs
| Assembly location(s) | GM Flint Assembly in Flint, Michigan, USA |
| Type | Heavy-duty full-size pickup truck or chassis cab |
| Layout | Front-Engined, Longitudinal |
| Engine(s) | 6.6L L8T V8 Gasoline, 6.6L L5P V8 Duramax Diesel |
| Transmission(s) | 10-Speed Auto, 10-Speed Auto Allison |
| Drive wheels | Rear-Wheel-Drive, Four-Wheel-Drive |
| Availability | U.S.A., Canada, Mexico, Middle East |
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Changes
- Sierra 1500: carry-over model with minor changes
- Sierra 2500 HD: mid-cycle refresh, gains Denali Ultimate and AT4X trims
- Sierra 3500 HD: mid-cycle refresh, gains Denali Ultimate trim
- Sierra 3500 HD CC: mid-cycle refresh
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Engine
On the power side, Ride and Handling Controls, The 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 HD drives like an enlarged pickup truck despite its large dimensions.
Due to its rather large scale, we felt comfortable and at ease. The Sierra HD glides quite comfortably on the highway, and rough roads aren’t a problem for it.
GMC authorities made this vehicle specifically for towing and hauling heavy items, so it can tow non-stop as long as your load matches its capacity.
READ NEXT: 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup Truck Review, Specs and Price
Powered by the optional V8 Duramax turbodiesel, we found it towed very comfortably and produced more than 900 lb-ft of torque. Despite straining a bit under the toughest towing conditions, the regular-gas V8 engine gets the job done.
In addition, GM is also bringing off-road capability to the 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 model. The boldest models in the Sierra HD portfolio are the tough versions AT4 and AT4X.
Forecasting the AT4 over the AT4X surpasses the $11,000 price difference. While the AT4X offers 35-inch tires, sturdier skid plates, and beefier suspension components, including DSSV Multi-Terrain shocks, the AT4 has Rancho shocks and all-terrain tires.
| Models | Engine | Fuel | Aspiration | Transmission | Drivetrain | Horsepower / kW @ RPM | Torque / Nm @ RPM | Axle Ratio |
| 2500 HD / 3500 HD | 6.6L L8T V8 | Gasoline | Atmospheric | 10-Speed Automatic (MKM) | RWD or 4WD | 401 / 299 @ 5200 | 464 / 626 @ 4000 | 3.73 |
| 2500 HD / 3500 HD | 6.6 L5P V8 | Diesel | Turbocharged | 10-Speed Automatic (MGM or MGU) | RWD or 4WD | 470 / 350 @ 2800 | 975 / 1322 @ 1600 | 3.42 |
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 MPG
For this pickup classification, the government does not keep records or provide fuel economy estimates.
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Features
Luxury Denali Trim
The Sierra HD Denali luxury pickup vehicle is no less capable. The premium appearance package includes open-pore wood trim, heated and cooled perforated leather front seats, a Bose premium sound system, and more. Choose the more luxurious Denali Ultimate grade to take it to the next level.
AT4 Model is Off-Road Ready
Both the AT4 and AT4X variants can go off-road. In addition to its tough looks both inside and out, the car has skid plates, an off-road inclinometer, all-terrain tires, and an upgraded suspension system. We had time with the AT4X and the more competent AT4. When the pavement is up, both are quite competent.
Duramax V8 Turbodiesel V8
This optional V8 turbodiesel significantly improves the Sierra HD’s torque ratings and towing capacity. It may be more fuel-efficient than a standard engine and can produce a payload of 36,000 pounds when properly equipped. (The EPA doesn’t require fuel efficiency figures for these big trucks.) We recommend you choose the Duramax if hard work is a top priority for your pickup needs.
Multi-Prop Rear Door
A MultiPro rear door is standard on all but the Sierra HD’s lowest Pro trim. Load stops, cab steps, tables, and more define six different positions. Before we actually tried this flexible item, we had some doubts. Right now, if we were buying a Sierra HD, that would be our first consideration.
Systems for Pro Class Trailering
The Pro Class Trailer System comprises a Hitch Guide with Hit View, GCW (Gross Combined Weight) Warning, Bed View, and more. It facilitates safe and simple towing and hauling and features an in-vehicle trailer application. We believe this is one of the best crane technologies available in the business.
Wireless is Apple Car Play with Android Auto
This standard feature’s simplicity means you can access navigation, audio, and more on your Sierra HD infotainment touchscreen (13.4 inches on SLE and above trims) without taking your phone out of your pocket.
V8 One-Two Punching
Two strong V8 engines will be available on the 2025 GMC Sierra HD models.
Equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Sierra HD’s 401 horsepower (hp) gas-powered 6.6-liter V8 engine produces 464 lb-ft of torque. Enough for most HD pickup drivers, this powerful engine is designed for towing and hauling.
With the most torque of the three, this engine offers the same horsepower as a base Ford Super Duty or Ram HD engine. The V8 fuel is adequate if you’re short on funds or need diesel.
The Sierra HD’s torque rating (975 lb-ft) and maximum towing capacity (36,000 pounds) are increased substantially with the optional 470 hp Duramax V8 turbodiesel. Ford’s High Output (HO) Power Stroke 500 hp 6.7-liter turbocharged V8 developed in response to the Duramax produces 1,200 lb-ft of torque.
With 1,075 lb-ft of torque produced by the available 6.7-liter HO turbodiesel, the Ram 3500 can tow up to 37,090 pounds; The F-350 can tow up to 38,000 pounds.
Three-year or 36,000-mile warranty
With a basic warranty that includes a three-year/36,000-mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, GMC stands behind the Sierra HD.
For this segment, the coverage is average. The warranty includes one free service visit for tire rotation, oil change, and multipoint inspection.
Superior Decoration
Saying that the GMC Sierra HD is more premium than a typical heavy-duty truck is at least a misrepresentation of reality. The interior design is elegant yet useful. Every Sierra HD offers large front seats.
In terms of space at the back of the Double Cab, we consider the legroom to be quite adequate. Contextually, the rear seat in the Sierra HD Crew Cab is about 3.0 inches larger than the Ram HD and about the same as the Ford Super Duty Crew Cab.
As you move through the model range, the Sierra HD becomes increasingly prominent. For example, the AT4 trim includes jet black, and Kalahari highlights inside, the SLT and higher trims feature perforated leather upholstery, and the Denali model comes with luxury materials like Denali-exclusive leather and open-pore wood trim.
Among the most luxurious trucks in this class is the Denali Ultimate grade. It has first-class features, including a 12-speaker Bose audio system, microsuede headliner, and massaging front seats. It rivals the Ram HD Limited and Ford Super Duty Limited.
Big and Muscular
The GMC Sierra HD has narrow lines to balance luxurious and rugged styling. While it looks different from the smaller Sierra 1500 and the mechanically identical Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC’s design language is on full display.
With each trim, the Sierra HD’s exterior and interior shift slightly. The AT4 version features sleek black highlights and a tough-looking kit with red tow hooks.
The Denali class has a bright grille and wheels. With Vader chrome exterior details, 20-inch alloy wheels, power running boards with LED lighting, and a Kicker audio system in the MultiPro tailgate, the Denali Ultimate variant makes a distinctive impression.
The Sierra HD’s 6-position Multi-Pro tailgate is one of our favorite exterior elements. Load stops, cab steps, “Work Surface” workstations, and more help you get organized.
It scales relative to other heavy-duty vehicles like the Chevrolet Silverado HD, Ram HD, and Ford Super Duty, where we find some similarities. Like every truck in this class, it provides plenty of options, including three cab sizes, two-bed lengths, and even a chassis cab option.
This class also demonstrates the ability to park and drive in dense metropolitan areas. While the weight of an HD truck increases its towing and hauling capacity, it also means more difficulty navigating crowded city streets and limited parking. Hey, you have to trade-off.
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Models
Light-Duty
- Pro
- SLE
- Elevation
- SLT
- AT4
- AT4X
- Denali
- Denali Ultimate
Heavy-Duty
- Pro
- SLE
- SLT
- AT4
- AT4X
- Denali
- Denali Ultimate
Chassis-Cab
- Pro
- SLE
Safety
The 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 models usually have the most advanced safety technology available as an option or as standard as you move up the trim levels. Among the upgrades are a surround-view camera, blind-spot monitoring with trailer assist, and automatic rear emergency braking in response to rear cross-traffic alarms.
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Price
The 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Crew Cab has a starting sticker price of $52,995, a slight increase from before, and the top-end Sierra 2500 HD Crew Cab Denali Ultimate starts at $94,795.
However, depending on trim and equipment, the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price now suggests spending $2,034 to $2,745 less than MSRP. We update these rates weekly.
| Models | MSRP | Fair Purchase Price |
| Pro | $51,995 | $49,961 |
| SLE | $56,295 | $53,840 |
| SLT | $63,895 | $61,339 |
| AT4 | $72,995 | $70,250 |
| Denali | $75,895 | $73,322 |
| AT4X | $85,195 | $82,673 |
| Denali Ultimate | $94,795 | $92,273 |
2026 GMC Sierra 2500 Release Date
We expect the 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 to hit the US market in the fall of 2025.
We anticipate that Sierra models will be produced at the following three plants: Light Duty: GM Fort Wayne plant, Indiana, USA, GM Silao plant, Guanajuato, Mexico. Heavy Duty: GM Flint plant, Michigan, USA
Verdict
The 2026 GMC Sierra 2500 has adaptive cruise control with trailer assist, which was previously standard on AT4X and Denali Ultimate trim levels and now also comes on AT4 and Denali trims.
In addition, trailer brake control will become standard across all models for 2025, eliminating the need to specialize in it separately on lower trims.
Front and rear parking sensors are now available on the base Pro and SLE trims as part of the Pro Safety Plus package.
We’ll keep you informed about new developments regarding the 2026 GMC Sierra, so bookmark our website for regular Sierra News and other interesting GMC facts coverage.
FAQ: People also ask 2026 GMC Sierra 2500
Q: What year will GMC redesign the Sierra?
A: According to Automotive News, the GMC Sierra 1500 is anticipated to be updated in 2026. Though the Sierra will have been in its fourth generation for seven years at that point, nothing is set in stone at this juncture; hence, the math checks out.
Q: Does GMC 2500 hold its value?
A: With 92% of the vehicle’s usable life left, you would only spend, on average, 77% of the price in 2023. For the Sierra 2500HD, the model years 2022 and 2019 also seem appealing and offer a quite decent value.
