2019 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500, with its redesigned half-ton pickup structure, was a head-turner in both suburban and rural settings. Its larger dimensions and chrome accents gave it a commanding presence, though some might argue it flirted with excess, especially in the Denali trim. The Denali's oversized grille and flashy details could overwhelm its otherwise appealing design, yet it was considered more subdued compared to the standard Sierra. Inside, the Sierra maintained a rugged aesthetic, with improved materials that still left the cabin feeling somewhat unrefined. Despite this, the interior was practical, with easily accessible controls even when wearing gloves. The Sierra offered a variety of trims and configurations, catering to different preferences and budgets, with prices ranging from $29,600 to $68,085 for a fully loaded Denali.

In contrast, the 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty retained its massive stature from its 2017 redesign, featuring a bold dual-bar grille and squared-off headlights. Available in six trims, each with distinct personalities, the F-250 ranged from the no-frills XL to the luxurious Limited. The interior was spacious, with ample storage and a second row that offered generous legroom. The Lariat trim, which was tested, provided a balance of comfort and functionality, with features like dual-zone climate control and leather upholstery. The higher trims, such as the King Ranch and Platinum, added luxury touches like remote start and massaging seats. The F-250's design emphasized practicality, with features like an integrated tailgate step, though some preferred the simpler step designs of its competitors.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivered 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This power was channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission and an Autotrac 4WD system, providing quick acceleration and smooth gear transitions. The Sierra's towing capacity reached 12,200 pounds, with a payload limit of 2,240 pounds, though it fell short of some competitors. The truck featured Dynamic Fuel Management for optimized performance and efficiency, achieving an EPA estimate of 17 mpg in combined driving. However, real-world tests showed an average of 16.3 mpg. The Sierra's Adaptive Ride Control suspension offered impressive ride and handling, though the 22-inch wheels slightly diminished its benefits.

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty came standard with a V8 powertrain, with the test model featuring a 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 producing 450 horsepower and an astounding 935 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the 6-speed automatic transmission provided only moderate acceleration. The F-250 excelled in towing and hauling, with a maximum towing capacity of 18,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 4,270 pounds. The truck's suspension was designed for heavy loads, resulting in a somewhat rough ride when unladen. Fuel economy was not officially rated, but the test model averaged just over 17 mpg, which was commendable for its class.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali featured power side steps for easy access, with spacious and comfortable seating. The crew cab models offered an additional 3 inches of backseat legroom, enhancing passenger comfort. The cargo bed was both deeper and wider, with a high-strength steel floor and 12 cargo tie-downs. The MultiPro Tailgate provided versatility with six configurations, and the enlarged rear Corner Step bumper cutouts facilitated easier loading. A factory spray-in bedliner and an optional CarbonPro cargo box liner were available for added durability.

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered various cab and bed configurations, with the Lariat test model featuring a standard bed and optional spray-in bed liner. The truck bed included LED lights, power outlets, and an adjustable tie-down system. Ford's integrated tailgate step was a useful feature, though some preferred the simpler step designs of competitors. The F-250's interior was spacious, with ample storage and a comfortable second row, making it suitable for both work and leisure.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 introduced advanced technology, including a next-generation infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Denali trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a Bose sound system, and a head-up display. Visibility was enhanced with a Rear Camera Mirror and a 360-degree HD Surround Vision camera. The ProGrade Advanced Trailer Package included Hitch Guidance and a Trailering App for easier towing.

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty came with SYNC infotainment, with the XL and XLT trims featuring a basic version. Higher trims included SYNC 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Lariat trim and above offered a B&O premium audio system. While SYNC 3 was user-friendly, it lacked a consistent home button, which could be inconvenient. The higher trims also included voice control and navigation, complementing the smartphone integration.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various safety features, with the Driver Alert Package 1 including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The optional Driver Alert Package 2 added forward-collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control and full-speed-range automatic braking were not available. The Sierra included Teen Driver monitoring and a Rear Seat Reminder system. Crash test ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty came equipped with front and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, traction control, and trailer-sway control. Higher trims included automatic high beams and optional features like lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The test truck featured a 360-degree camera system, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring, essential for maneuvering the large vehicle.