2023 RAM 2500 vs 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

2023 RAM 2500
2023 RAM 2500
$45,475MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$45,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 RAM 2500
$45,475MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$45,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$45,475

MSRP

$45,400

Listings

1229

Listings

2494

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Impressive off-road capability

  • Powerful turbodiesel engine option

  • Spacious and comfortable

Cons

  • Column shifter feels flimsy

  • Difficult to enter and exit

  • Turbodiesel engine option is expensive

Pros

  • Massive cabin with luxury trimmings

  • Diesel’s excellent towing capability

  • Strong acceleration

Cons

  • Thirst for fuel

  • Feels barge-like when parking

  • Near-twin Chevrolet Silverado HD is cheaper

2023 RAM 2500 Reviews Summary

The Ram Power Wagon is a beast off-road and looks like it chews up and spits out lesser 2500-series heavy-duty pickup trucks for fun, but it’s also a purpose-built tool that isn’t easy to live with on a daily basis. The Ford F-250 Tremor and GMC Sierra 2500HD AT4 may not match the Power Wagon for sheer adventuring capability, but they retain more towing and payload capacity than the decal-decorated Ram, which can tow no more than 10,590 pounds and carry no more than 1,630 pounds of payload. Enter the new 2023 Ram 2500 Rebel. Problem solved.

2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Reviews Summary

Sitting at the top of the Sierra’s six available trims, the Denali Ultimate is newly added for the 2024 model year and comes with nearly every available option that can be included on this full-size truck.

The Denali Ultimate trim level is offered on both the 2500 and 3500 HD models. Each provides a higher degree of towing and payload capacity than what’s available in the standard GMC Sierra 1500. To put it bluntly, the Sierra HD models are pickup overkill for anyone simply looking to tow a couple of jet skis or haul a moderately-sized camper. The “HD” in the name stands for “Heavy Duty,” and its capabilities (and price) reflect this.

Powered exclusively by a 6.6-liter turbocharged Duramax diesel V8, the HD Denali Ultimate we test drove has a maximum towing capacity of 22,500 pounds—a 4,000 pound increase versus the 2023 model. Need to tow something along the lines of construction equipment or, say, a small island? Stepping up to the Sierra 3500 HD equates to a max tow rating of 36,500 pounds when using a gooseneck trailer hitch.

Okay, so the Sierra HD lineup has serious chops for getting tough tasks done. But how does it stack up against the competition? Hop aboard as we take a look at every aspect of the HD Denali Ultimate, from how it drives, to the user-friendliness of its infotainment system, trailer tech, and whether this new top-of-the-range trim is worth the price.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

3
2023 RAM 2500
2023 RAM 2500
$45,475MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$45,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 RAM 2500
$45,475MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$45,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$45,475
$45,400
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

3.9

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Impressive off-road capability

  • Powerful turbodiesel engine option

  • Spacious and comfortable

Cons

  • Column shifter feels flimsy

  • Difficult to enter and exit

  • Turbodiesel engine option is expensive

Pros

  • Massive cabin with luxury trimmings

  • Diesel’s excellent towing capability

  • Strong acceleration

Cons

  • Thirst for fuel

  • Feels barge-like when parking

  • Near-twin Chevrolet Silverado HD is cheaper

Summary
The Ram Power Wagon is a beast off-road and looks like it chews up and spits out lesser 2500-series heavy-duty pickup trucks for fun, but it’s also a purpose-built tool that isn’t easy to live with on a daily basis. The Ford F-250 Tremor and GMC Sierra 2500HD AT4 may not match the Power Wagon for sheer adventuring capability, but they retain more towing and payload capacity than the decal-decorated Ram, which can tow no more than 10,590 pounds and carry no more than 1,630 pounds of payload. Enter the new 2023 Ram 2500 Rebel. Problem solved.

Sitting at the top of the Sierra’s six available trims, the Denali Ultimate is newly added for the 2024 model year and comes with nearly every available option that can be included on this full-size truck.

The Denali Ultimate trim level is offered on both the 2500 and 3500 HD models. Each provides a higher degree of towing and payload capacity than what’s available in the standard GMC Sierra 1500. To put it bluntly, the Sierra HD models are pickup overkill for anyone simply looking to tow a couple of jet skis or haul a moderately-sized camper. The “HD” in the name stands for “Heavy Duty,” and its capabilities (and price) reflect this.

Powered exclusively by a 6.6-liter turbocharged Duramax diesel V8, the HD Denali Ultimate we test drove has a maximum towing capacity of 22,500 pounds—a 4,000 pound increase versus the 2023 model. Need to tow something along the lines of construction equipment or, say, a small island? Stepping up to the Sierra 3500 HD equates to a max tow rating of 36,500 pounds when using a gooseneck trailer hitch.

Okay, so the Sierra HD lineup has serious chops for getting tough tasks done. But how does it stack up against the competition? Hop aboard as we take a look at every aspect of the HD Denali Ultimate, from how it drives, to the user-friendliness of its infotainment system, trailer tech, and whether this new top-of-the-range trim is worth the price.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Seating Capacity
3
3
Look and feel

2023 RAM 2500

8/10

2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

8/10
The 2023 RAM 2500 entered the market with an assertive stance, particularly in its Rebel iteration. Renowned for its off-road prowess, the RAM 2500 evolved beyond its Power Wagon variant, addressing limitations in towing and payload with the introduction of the Rebel. The 2023 model offered a blend of rugged capability and daily usability, promising 10,590 pounds of towing and 1,630 pounds of payload capacity in standard versions (increasing to 16,870 pounds of towing capacity and 3,140 pounds of payload capacity in Rebel trim with the V8 engine), which, while not best-in-class, presents a significant improvement and a solution for those needing more from their off-road-ready pickup. In contrast, the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD, particularly in its Denali Ultimate trim, represents the pinnacle of luxury within the heavy-duty truck segment. With a significant boost in towing capacity to 22,500 pounds thanks to its powerful 6.6-liter turbocharged Duramax diesel engine, the Sierra 2500HD not only surpasses its predecessor but also sets a high standard for towing capabilities. This truck is not just about brute strength; it's a statement of luxury, technological advancement, and unrivaled capability, designed for those who demand the best in power and sophistication.
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Picture of 2023 RAM 2500
Performance

2023 RAM 2500

9/10

2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

8/10
Performance ratings from CarGurus show the 2023 RAM 2500 scoring a 9 out of 10 and the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD an 8 out of 10. The RAM 2500 Rebel's 6.4-liter V8 engine and optional Cummins turbodiesel provide a blend of power and efficiency, with significant towing and payload capacities. It's a capable off-roader that's also comfortable for daily driving, despite the Cummins' higher price tag. The Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate's 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 delivers 470 horsepower and 975 pound-feet of torque, matched with a 10-speed Allison transmission for smooth and powerful performance. While its handling is influenced by its size, the Sierra 2500HD excels in towing and hauling with added features like a diesel exhaust brake and advanced suspension to manage heavy loads.
Form and function

2023 RAM 2500

7/10

2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

8/10

In assessing utility, the 2023 RAM 2500 and the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD present compelling offerings with respective scores of 7 out of 10 and 8 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. The RAM 2500 Rebel is not just about power; it emphasizes practicality and comfort within its cabin. Entry and exit may require a bit of agility due to the truck's height, but once inside, the interior is both spacious and versatile. The choice of upholstery, be it cloth or premium leather, and the layout, whether opting for a bench or bucket seats, ensures comfort over long distances. The truck's utility is further highlighted by thoughtful storage solutions, including the innovative Ram Box system, enhancing the exterior cargo management.

Conversely, the GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate elevates the standard for luxury and functionality in the heavy-duty segment. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, offering an unparalleled level of comfort and sophistication. Stretch-out room is abundant, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers, with the front seats providing heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Storage space is generous, both in terms of in-cabin compartments and the cargo bed. The Sierra 2500HD's cargo bed, enhanced by the versatile MultiPro Tailgate, offers significant utility for hauling.

Both vehicles demonstrate a strong commitment to blending form with function, offering features that cater to both work and comfort, yet the specifics of their luggage capacities in cubic feet remain generalized in their descriptions of cargo space utility and versatility.

Technology

2023 RAM 2500

8/10

2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

9/10
Technology scores are 8 out of 10 for the RAM 2500 and 9 out of 10 for the Sierra 2500HD, reflecting the GMC's edge in this category. The RAM 2500 Rebel features a new 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a comprehensive suite of trailering technologies and camera systems. The Uconnect 5 system provides a robust infotainment experience, though it faces challenges with glare and user interface complexities. The Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate stands out with a larger 13.4-inch touchscreen, advanced navigation, and a range of connectivity options. Its comprehensive suite of trailer aids and camera views, along with thoughtful design to minimize driving distractions, places it at the forefront of technology in heavy-duty trucks.
Safety

2023 RAM 2500

8/10

2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

9/10
Safety ratings are 8 out of 10 for the RAM 2500 and 9 out of 10 for the Sierra 2500HD. The RAM 2500 offers a comprehensive array of driving aids, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, providing confidence in various driving conditions. The Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate incorporates a wide range of active safety features as standard, including pedestrian detection and a surround-view parking camera, reflecting the growing expectation for high levels of safety across all vehicle segments. Its extensive safety features, combined with enhanced visibility through large, power-operated side mirrors, underscore its commitment to safety.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 RAM 2500 is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD scores 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the GMC Sierra 2500HD is the more highly recommended vehicle.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 RAM 2500 is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD scores 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the GMC Sierra 2500HD is the more highly recommended vehicle.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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