Apr 30, 2021
front of sierra gmc truck front view

The GMC Sierra has always been known for its eye-catching style and impressive capabilities. Available as a 1500 or Heavy Duty pickup truck, the 2021 Sierra is no exception. You might be wondering which Sierra model is right for you. Let’s explore the similarities and differences between the Sierra 1500 and the Sierra Heavy Duty. 

Trim Levels 

The Sierra 1500 and Sierra Heavy Duty are both available in three trim levels: SLT, AT4, and Denali. Both lineups feature GMC’s MultiPro Tailgate, the first of its kind. With six configurations, the state-of-the-art tailgate makes it easier to load and unload cargo while giving you extra workspace. When you look at the Sierra 1500 and Sierra Heavy Duty, you’ll notice that they both come with intricately designed wheels, stunning chrome accents, and C-shaped taillights. You’ll also see that each Heavy Duty trim level is slightly larger and has more ground clearance than its 1500 counterpart. 

Towing Capacity 

Because the Sierra Heavy Duty is larger than the Sierra 1500, it can accommodate a more powerful engine. For example, the Sierra 1500 Denali comes equipped with a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine, while the Heavy Duty Denali has a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel. With its larger and more powerful engine, the Heavy Duty Denali can tow up to 36,000 pounds. The Sierra 1500 Denali has an 11,800-pound towing capacity, which is still pretty impressive. 

Technology 

GMC equips the Sierra 1500 and the Sierra Heavy Duty with impressive technology. Both models offer a 15-inch multi-color head-up display that gives you vital driving information like vehicle speed, fuel levels, and turn-by-turn navigation without distracting you from the road. The GMC Infotainment System is also available in the 1500 and Heavy Duty models. The system features wireless smartphone integration, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot, and customizable driver profiles.  

With SiriusXM radio, you can listen to more than 90 commercial-free music channels and catch up on sports and talk radio. The Sierra Heavy Duty models add a MultiPro audio system that integrates with the MultiPro tailgate. With this 100-watt exterior audio system, you can listen to your music while camping or tailgating, and you don’t have to leave your truck running. 

ProGrade Trailering System 

With GMC’s Prograde Trailering System, it’s easy to tow whether you’re driving the Sierra 1500 or the Sierra Heavy Duty. The system’s in-vehicle trailering app monitors trailer tire pressure, tests the trailer lights, and lets you create pre-departure checklists. The system also alerts you to situations that can lead to jackknifing, monitors your trailer’s blind spots, and gives you rear and side views.  

Intelligent Safety Features 

Both the Sierra 1500 and Sierra Heavy Duty give you the intelligent safety features you need to drive with confidence. With adaptive cruise control, you can set your preferred cruising speed, and the system will adjust it if traffic starts to slow. Intellibeam headlights brighten and dim automatically, so you don’t have to constantly fiddle with your headlight settings. When it’s time to teach younger family members how to drive, you’ll appreciate the Sierra’s teen driver technology.  

As you can see, there’s a lot to love about the Sierra 1500 and the Sierra Heavy Duty. Take a test drive here at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC and see which model is right for you.