2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD Double Cab

　　

2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD Review

byChristian WardlawCorrespondent

　　Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at zzdcar and was the first editor-in-chief of zzdcar.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.

　　The 2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD has its work cut out for it. Already short when it comes to maximum towing and payload ratings, the Sierra now faces a new Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Rebel model that aims to steal some thunder from the 2500HD AT4. But that's the least of GMC's concerns. The completely redesigned Ford F-250 Super Duty takes heavy-duty truck design to the next level.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD Pro 4dr Double Cab SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　Not Available  for Sierra 2500HD Pro

　　Sierra 2500HD Pro

　　Pro 4dr Double Cab SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $44,800 MSRPPro 4dr Double Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $45,000 MSRPPro 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $47,600 MSRPPro 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $47,800 MSRPSLE 4dr Double Cab SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $51,000 MSRPSLE 4dr Double Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $51,200 MSRPSLE 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $53,800 MSRPSLE 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $54,000 MSRPSLT 4dr Double Cab SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $58,600 MSRPSLT 4dr Double Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $58,800 MSRPSLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $61,400 MSRPSLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) - $61,600 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　In response to these new threats to the 2023 2500HD, GMC makes no changes to its truck. But that's not because the company is sticking its head into the sand. Instead, a substantially refreshed 2024 Sierra HD lineup is set to resolve some of the current model's shortcomings. According to GMC, the new truck will offer more capability, next-generation technology, a cleaner exterior look, and a new interior with more upscale materials.

　　The upcoming 2024 Sierra 2500HD is compelling. But if you don't have the luxury of delaying a purchase, the 2023 Sierra 2500HD is a capable, but not a class-leading, heavy-duty truck. Be sure to read our full Expert Rating to learn more about the Sierra 2500HD.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.5

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the Sierra 2500HD drive? The Sierra 2500's optional 6.6-liter diesel V8 is an excellent engine, and the 10-speed automatic it's paired to is top-notch. That V8 and its 910 lb-ft of torque propelled our 8,300-pound test truck from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds — one of the quicker times in the 2500-series segment. We're less pleased with the brakes. The overly soft and long feel of the brake pedal action can diminish your confidence in the truck's abilities should you need to stop quickly.

　　Steering and handling are unremarkable. The steering is vague but well weighted. And despite its size, the Sierra tracks well through corners. In-town drivability and off-road capability are similarly average for the class. Keep the Sierra 2500 on bigger roads and you'll enjoy it just fine.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Sierra 2500HD? Without any cargo in the bed, the Sierra 2500 has a bouncy ride, especially on the highway where road imperfections are common. The front seats help boost the Sierra's score with their comfortable and supportive padding. Lumbar support is excellent too. Things should be just fine on a long road trip over relatively smooth roads.

　　The Sierra's climate control system works quickly and is operated by easy-to-use control knobs placed conveniently on the dashboard. Road and wind noise is about average for the heavy-duty segment, but there is a pretty notable ruckus from the diesel up front, especially at idle. You'll definitely never forget that you got the diesel V8.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below