While modern half-ton pickup trucks are more capable than ever, they may not be enough for everyone. That’s where a truck like GMC’s Sierra 2500 HD comes into play, which is capable of towing and hauling tens of thousands of pounds with ease.
2017 is a big year for the Sierra in the powertrain department as the flagship Duramax Diesel engine is completely revamped. The big 6.6-litre V8 features an all-new block and head design, not to mention a brand new fuel-delivery system. The Duramax is also capable of running on B20 biodiesel. Last but not least, the engine breathes through a new functional hood scoop that can channel up to 60 percent more air into the engine.
Together, these changes allow the new engine to produce 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, which handily leapfrogs the Ram Cummins diesel. It isn’t as much as the new-for-2017 Ford Super Duty which makes 925 lb-ft of torque. As before, this engine mandates an Allison 1000 six-speed automatic, which has also been improved to deal with the added power.
Also new this year is the arrival of the All Terrain X package for the 2500HD Crew Cab body style. This package brings off-road toughness wrapped in a stealthy exterior. Available with the gas or diesel engine, the All-Terrain boasts an Eaton locking rear differential, Z71 off-road suspension, underbody protection, 18-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in Goodyear Duratrac MT tires, body-colour grille, door handles, and bumpers, black power-folding trailering mirrors, black belt moulding, black skidplate, four-inch side steps, and a black sports bar for mounting overhead lamps. Buyers can spec the All Terrain X in black or white paint.
Other changes to the Sierra 2500HD include new exterior colours (Dark Slate Metallic, Pepperdust Metallic), and available six-spoke polished 20-inch wheels. Models featuring the gas-powered engine also get a capless fuel filler; diesel models have a regular cap. The Denali trim level gains wireless device charging and a remote-locking tailgate. All Sierra HDs get the Teen Driver technology system, which is also featured on the Acadia and Yukon, as standard equipment.
Available cab and bed configurations include a regular cab with long box (eight feet), double cab with standard (6.5 feet) or long box, and crew cab with standard or long box. 2WD and 4WD are available, depending on trim.
GMC offers the Sierra 2500HD in base, SLE, SLT, and Denali trims, the latter of which offers the sort of luxury equipment you’d expect to find in a Cadillac. All models have comfortable cabins with intuitive dashboard layouts, with premium models benefitting from leather seats, soft-touch dash and door trim, and plenty of connectivity options. Most trims feature a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with USB ports, Bluetooth, OnStar with 4G LTE in-truck internet, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A larger 8.0-inch option includes navigation, a smaller 4.3-inch display audio system is standard on the base Sierra.
In terms of active safety features, the 2500 HD is available with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, and a safety alert seat, which are bundled together in the Driver Alert Package. A reverse camera is standard on all trims, except the base where it is included as a part of the Convenience Plus Package. The Sierra is not yet available with radar cruise control or emergency autonomous braking.
The standard engine on all 2500HDs is a 6.0-litre V8 engine that makes 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, and can run on E85; it comes mated to a six-speed automatic. This engine is also available with a conversion kit that allows it to run on CNG, though power outputs are reduced.
On the towing front, the Sierra 2500HD is available with a factory-installed fifth-wheel hitch, trailer brake controller, and fully-integrated exterior cameras for towing assistance. Last year’s update to the Sierra also saw it gain a digital steering assistant, which greatly improves low-speed maneuverability and stability at higher speeds.
Despite the added power of the new diesel engine, the Sierra 2500HD’s maximum towing capacity increase by just 100 lbs to 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) with a fifth-wheel setup. The gas engine is rated at a maximum of 14,800 lbs (6,713 kg).
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