GMC has created a bit of a practical quandary for heavy-duty truck drivers. They have released a perfectly lovely 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 for sale; this is not a problem in itself, but a new and improved Sierra HD collection has been announced for 2024. So, as a driver with a need for a massive truck, you’ve got to decide whether you’re going to pull the trigger now on an existing 2023 model or wait for the new model year, which is projected to become available at GMC dealerships starting in spring 2023.
If you really need a new truck right now, then waiting might not be possible. But for those who have just started the shopping process, it might be a good time to pause and consider options before you make an investment of this size. After all, certain adjustments will be made to the incoming model that might be beneficial for drivers. At the same time, these updates and upgrades might not be meaningful to you; it all depends on how you plan to use your future truck. Let’s look at the 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 and its 2024 counterpart to determine which might make the best rugged partner for all your heavy-duty needs. The wait might just be worth it if you’re into certain features and capabilities.
Power and Performance, Year by Year
One thing that makes HD pickup trucks stand out over the other vehicles that come in cab and box format is their sheer size. “Heavy Duty” is not a term these trucks take lightly. As a result, many drivers pay very keen attention to things like engine size and towing maximums. The 2023 and 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 trucks come equipped with the same engine options, but there are a few performance upgrades for 2024. The standard engine is a gasoline-powered 6.6L V8 that provides 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, this engine provides an impressive towing capacity of 16,650 lbs via gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch. This is not anticipated to change for the 2024 model year, so if you’re a gas driver, you can feel pretty confident in the capability of your Sierra 2500.
On the other hand, Diesel drivers have something to look forward to with the 2024 model. The 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel V8 continues from 2023 into 2024 with a few advances. While the 2023 model is good for 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque, the 2024 diesel engine option has been paired with a new turbocharged engine to increase low-end torque by 25%. Final figures give it a total of 470 hp and 975 lb-ft of torque. It’s also been retuned and tweaked to offer greater towing control and braking prowess. As a result, 2024 Sierra 2500 turbo diesel drivers can pull up to 22,500 lbs through their gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch, a sincere increase over the 18,500-lb maximum diesel drivers contend with in 2023.
Trailering Tech and Innovative Features to Make Work Easier
With great loads come great responsibilities, as many drivers who choose HD trucks understand. We live in a world in which technology has been designed into our work tools in order to make them even more helpful. The 2024 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty trucks come with a full resume of features that can make the load easier to bear. Some of these, like the abundantly available camera views, is a holdover from the 2023 model. With camera views like the enhanced transparent trailer view, which allows drivers to look “through” the trailer to get a feel for what’s behind them, views of the hitch, front and rear top-down views, side views, and both ball and cargo bed hitch views, this system provides drivers with eyes on the ground in every possible angle.
The ProGrade trailering system will also be updated for 2024. The 2023 myGMC mobile app offers plenty of helpful features, such as a trailer light test, pre-departure checklist, trailer load calculator, trailering health alerts, and a glossary for on-the-spot troubleshooting. In fact, the mobile app connects through the infotainment system, allowing easy in-cabin access to up to five custom trailer profiles. The myGMC mobile app continues to be an important part of the Sierra HD’s trailering tech in 2024, but onboard features will include trailer sway control, trailer length indicator, angle indicator with jack-knife alert, and a trailering-ready adaptive cruise control system.
Safety features are also a new look for the 2024 GMC Sierra HD series. While the 2023 model offers drivers the opportunity to add various safety features to their Sierra 2500, every new 2024 version will be equipped with the Sierra HD Pro Safety package, which includes front pedestrian braking with automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and a following distance indicator. Lane departure warning and IntelliBeam automatic high beams are also on board. Drivers who want even more features can opt for rear cross traffic braking and trailer side blind zone alert.
The New Sierra HD Denali Ultimate
The term “Denali Ultimate” might sound familiar. Currently, the 2023 Sierra HD is offered with a choice of the Denali Black Diamond or Denali Ultimate packages, which are add-ons for those already in the market for the luxurious accommodations of the Sierra Denali trim. The Black Diamond package includes fun features like a power sunroof, power-retractable and lighted assist steps, a Kicker audio system, and a suite of trailering features, such as an auxiliary camera and tire pressure sensors. An exclusive Ebony Twilight Metallic exterior is highlighted with 20-inch high gloss black aluminum wheels, too. The 2023 Denali Ultimate package includes a sunroof, a rear camera mirror feature, and a multi-color 15-inch diagonal head-up display. Power-retractable, lighted steps are also optional.
Starting with the 2024 model, the Sierra HD Denali Ultimate will be its own stand-alone trim. Equipped with the turbodiesel engine, the illuminated power assist steps will be standard, as will a Paldao wood and full-grain leather interior in smooth Alpine Umber. A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system blasts the interior with its Centerpoint surround sound, while the driver and front seat passenger enjoy seats with a massage feature. The exterior includes a Vader Chrome grille and 20-inch ultra-bright aluminum wheels, making it a truck that looks as cool on the outside as it does on the inside.
To Wait, or Not to Wait?
The good news is that whether you buy a 2023 GMC Sierra or wait a few months for the 2024 version, you are getting a highly coveted truck that comes in a variety of trims and offers many customizable options. As a result, you will be able to tailor your driving experience to your budget and lifestyle needs. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have selected one of the most well-respected heavy-duty trucks on the market today.
Waiting for the new model might be ideal if you’re into serious towing and need the type of power the newly-engineered turbo diesel engine plans to provide. Those looking for top-shelf luxury and cutting-edge technology might prefer to wait for the latest and greatest that GMC is pouring into the newest iteration of the Sierra 2500 HD. On the other hand, if you’re a gasoline driver or not necessarily interested in premium paint colors, you can feel confident purchasing your truck today. The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 is expected to enjoy many upgrades in power, technology, and appearance. Still, the 2023 version is no slouch, providing drivers with a heavy-duty truck that gets the job done again and again. Should you wait? Only if it makes the most sense for your driving needs!
