2025 RAM 2500 vs 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was a striking presence on the road, with its massive grille and imposing stature that rivaled even the largest vehicles. Finished in Onyx Black, it exuded a menacing aura that commanded attention and respect. The truck's updated front bumper and grille assembly, complete with standard LED headlights and taillights, added to its modern appeal. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a six-passenger Crew Cab with options for two cargo bed lengths, ensuring versatility for various hauling needs. The MultiPro Tailgate, with its six configurations, further enhanced its functionality, making it a practical choice for those who needed a workhorse with a touch of luxury.

In contrast, the 2025 RAM 2500 was equally bold, with a massive vertical grille that seamlessly integrated into the hood and body sides. The new split headlight design and redesigned taillights gave it a fresh look. The face of the Ram 2500 varied by trim, with options ranging from the basic Tradesman to the luxurious Limited Longhorn. The Laramie trim introduced leather seating and a large touchscreen infotainment system, while the Limited Longhorn offered a cowboy-themed interior. The RAM 2500's design catered to a wide range of preferences, from rugged off-roaders to those seeking luxury and comfort.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate was powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax turbocharged diesel V8 engine, delivering 470 horsepower and an impressive 975 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, it offered robust performance for towing and hauling. The truck's handling was influenced by its size, but it remained agile in city and highway traffic. However, its firm ride and suspension settings were tailored for towing and hauling, which could lead to a less comfortable experience on rough roads.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered a standard 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine with 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, capable of towing nearly 9,000 pounds. However, the real star was the revised 6.7-liter Cummins turbocharged diesel engine, now standard in its High Output spec, producing 430 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet of torque. This engine, combined with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, provided exceptional towing capabilities. The RAM 2500's five-link rear suspension and optional air suspension packages ensured a smooth ride, even when loaded. The Power Wagon and Rebel models excelled in off-road conditions, offering features like electronic locking differentials and a disconnecting sway bar.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate boasted a luxurious interior with full-grain leather seats, wood trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The spacious cabin offered excellent stretch-out room and in-cabin storage, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The rear seat provided ample legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for long journeys. Storage options were plentiful, though accessing items in the front door pockets proved challenging.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered various cab configurations, including Regular, Crew, and Mega Cab, catering to different space needs. The Crew Cab provided ample rear seat space, while the Mega Cab offered limo-like legroom. Towing capabilities varied by configuration, with the Cummins diesel engine enabling a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 pounds. The RAM 2500's payload capacity also varied, with the Regular Cab and Hemi V8 offering the highest ratings. The truck's design allowed for flexibility in towing and hauling, making it a versatile choice for different needs.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen with a 15-inch head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The navigation system was sharp and accurate, while the climate control system remained user-friendly with physical buttons. However, the steering-column-mounted gearshift stalk obstructed part of the center screen. The truck also offered a comprehensive suite of trailer aids, including a ProGrade trailering system with 14 camera views.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered a range of screen sizes, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and a 14.4-inch unit available on higher trims. The Laramie trim and above featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while the rearview mirror could be replaced with a screen showing multiple views. The RAM 2500's infotainment system included trailer reverse steering control and Trailer-Tow Pages, though it lacked Ford's payload weight display. The truck's technology offerings catered to those who valued screen real estate and towing assistance.

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Ultimate came standard with a suite of active safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The truck's large side mirrors provided excellent visibility, and the surround-view parking camera aided in maneuvering.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered a comprehensive safety package, though not standard across all trims. The optional Safety Group included adaptive steering, blind-spot monitoring, and pedestrian detection. Additional packages added forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The RAM 2500 also offered a suite of camera technologies, including a surround-view camera system. The NHTSA awarded the RAM 2500 a four-star rating, while the IIHS had not yet rated it.