2023 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2024 Toyota Tacoma

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update for the 2022 model year which evolved its already distinguished design. This truck was highlighted by a wider, more imposing grille and modernized headlights, which though an update, did not revolutionize its established visual appeal. The changes maintained the truck’s sharp look, making it a lateral move in terms of exterior design.

For those who drove the Sierra before the 2022 facelift, the interior of the 2023 model marked a significant departure from past models. This shift in design leans towards creating a cabin experience that feels more akin to daily driver cars and SUVs. The dashboard was revamped to host a large screen, forsaking the simpler layout of its predecessor. While this added complexity might appeal to those looking for a more tech-heavy experience, it could be seen as overly complicated for buyers in need of a straightforward work truck. The new infotainment system shifted control placements further down on the dashboard but retained traditional climate controls, a conventional volume dial, and a home button.

Trim options for the GMC Sierra 1500 included the Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, AT4X, Denali, and Denali Ultimate. The base Pro retained the simpler infotainment setup with a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SLE trim introduced features like a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control. Moving up to the Elevation added further options. The SLT brought in leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and memory settings for the driver’s seat.

The AT4 and AT4X trims were developed with off-road enthusiasts in mind, featuring standard 4WD, skid plates, and upgraded suspensions. The AT4X, in particular, was distinguishable by its steel bumpers and integrated front winch. The Denali trim stood out with unique styling elements and high-end features such as a Bose audio system and wireless device charging. Lastly, the Denali Ultimate encompassed nearly every available feature, offering exclusive amenities such as an integrated Kicker sound system, unique interior wood panel designs, massaging front seats, and 22-inch wheels.

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma, though entirely new, did not stray far from its previous generation’s design language. The recognizable Toyota truck look was retained, reinforced by a new hexagonal grille and blockier, more angular exterior lines. The base SR trim came standard with 17-inch steel wheels, while other trims upgraded to 17-inch alloy wheels, with the TRD Sport and Limited boasting 18-inch alloys.

Interior updates for the Tacoma were more striking, resembling the aesthetic shift seen in the Ford F-Series. The cabin featured squared-off dashboard sections and a geometric gear shift knob, emphasizing a rugged truck vibe. The MOLLE panels located throughout the cabin served a functional, rather than aesthetic, role, supporting accessory attachment. Even in the upscale Limited trim, large plastic grids were evident, highlighting a function-over-form design approach. The Trailhunter and TRD Pro trims might detract from this with additional luxury or convenience features, though the primary focus was on accessory attachment functionality.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 had four powertrain options for the model year. Standard models came equipped with a gas 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Those who preferred diesel could opt for the 3.0-liter Duramax turbocharged inline-six, delivering 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 pound-feet of torque. Other gas options included a 5.3-liter V8 generating 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

The base four-cylinder engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, whereas the rest enjoyed a 10-speed automatic transmission. Buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). The Sierra, particularly when equipped with the diesel engine and RWD, had a towing capacity of up to 13,200 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 2,240 pounds.

The diesel engine notably delivered a robust and lively performance complemented by the 10-speed automatic transmission. The Sierra provided ample power for highway speeds and city driving, with light steering and effective brakes contributing to an overall smooth and composed ride. However, its wide turning radius and cumbersome handling in tight spaces were drawbacks in contributing to everyday maneuverability.

Off-road capabilities were enhanced in the AT4 and AT4X trims with lifted suspensions and additional skid plates, though the Sierra’s large size occasionally hindered trail performance. Nonetheless, it excelled in traversing open terrains.

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma shifted to an all-turbo lineup. A 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, branded “i-FORCE,” was standard, delivering 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The base SR trim had a detuned version producing 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque, significantly surpassing the previous generation’s base engine output. Both RWD and 4WD were available, though only 4WD models were tested at launch.

An eight-speed automatic transmission replaced the older six-speed, providing smooth and timely shifts. Although there was some turbo lag from a stop or crawl, no delays were noted at highway speeds. A six-speed manual transmission remained an option, though it presented its own challenges with a high bite point.

Toyota focused on differentiating trims, each boasting unique identities and suspension setups. The coil spring multi-link rear suspension was standard on all but a few trims, while components and tuning varied, such as sport-tuned shocks for the TRD Sport and Bilstein shocks for the TRD Off-Road. Adaptive variable suspension was an option for the top Limited trim, enhancing ride comfort. On-road performance was satisfactory across configurations.

The i-FORCE Max hybrid powertrain, still shrouded in some mystery, was reserved for maximum capabilities. The TRD Pro featured FOX QS3 adjustable shocks, while the Trailhunter marked the debut collaboration with Old Man Emu, a renowned off-road specialist.

Updates included standard disc brakes and new electric power steering, allowing advanced driver-assistance features and addressing previous steering vagueness.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered multiple configurations to cater to diverse needs. Options included a regular cab with a standard bed, a single cab with a long bed, a double cab with a standard bed, a full four-door crew cab with either a short or standard bed. Trim availability varied by configuration.

Our test model featured a crew cab with a short bed, boasting extensive cabin space. The doors were equipped with large storage trays and spots for oversized water bottles. The center console contained large cup holders, a tray ahead of the shifter, and a deep storage compartment with an organizer. The rear bench seat folded up for additional secure storage. The Denali Ultimate trim came with GMC’s MultiPro tailgate, offering various useful configurations, such as bed step-up, fold-out workstation, and passage for longer items. Convenient bed steps built into the rear bumper corners were standard across all trims.

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma saw the discontinuation of the small rear-seat Access Cab, replaced by the XtraCab configuration, focusing solely on cargo space behind the front seats. The XtraCab provided lockable storage and a flat-folding passenger seat, facilitating contractors' needs. However, accessing the storage area proved challenging with the manual-adjust driver seat, easier when maneuvering around the passenger seat.

Four-door Double Cab models featured improved seat comfort, maintaining head- and legroom similar to the previous generation. Notably, storage capacity beneath the rear seats tripled compared to the previous model. The double cab was available with either a 5-foot or 6-foot bed, while the XtraCab came with the larger bed exclusively. New bed features included an increased depth, a 440-watt outlet for gas models, and a 2400-watt outlet for hybrid models, accommodating accessories like camp fridges.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500’s base trim included a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims upgraded to a 13.4-inch touchscreen, offering wireless compatibility with both platforms. The upgraded system had a logical interface, large icons, and included a volume dial, eliminating a tuning knob. The system’s integration with Google-connected apps was notable, although its repeated prompts could be intrusive.

The Denali Ultimate trim featured a wireless charging pad, USB-A, USB-C ports, and a wall-style power outlet, albeit repositioned from the dash to the center console due to the large screen. A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and a massive head-up display were also standard in all but the base trim, offering clear and easy-to-read information.

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma experienced significant technological enhancements. The base trim now began with an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims boasted a 14-inch center display. Both screens operated on Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system, which was responsive and intuitive, though somewhat minimalist. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and a Qi wireless charging pad was optional. The charging pad, if included, was well-positioned for driver visibility. An optional 10-speaker JBL sound system featured a removable Bluetooth speaker, a novel addition for outdoor use. Pre-wired auxiliary switches offered control over up to three accessories.

For towing enthusiasts, the Tacoma introduced a trailer brake controller and an available Panoramic View Monitor, aiding in towing operations. An optional wireless trailer camera provided further assistance.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and GM’s Teen Driver system. Higher trims and optional packages added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, surround-view camera system, and GM’s Safety Alert seat. The Denali Ultimate included GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system, offering hands-free highway driving and lane changes. Rear headrests that flipped down improved rear visibility, complemented by the rear-vision camera mirror for enhanced visibility in various conditions. The surround-view camera system and parking sensors facilitated maneuvering in tight spaces.

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma's safety technology received an upgrade with the standard electric power steering. Standard features included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), with new additions like Lane Tracing Assist, lane-departure alert with steering assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Road-sign assist and an emergency stop system were also introduced, enhancing the truck’s safety suite. Adaptive cruise control offered four following distance options, and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert was standard on all but the base trim.

Although official safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS were pending, the new safety features and reinforced structure positioned the Tacoma well for potential accolades.