Silverado vs Sierra

The Breakdown

The Chevy Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500 are the powerhouse pickup trucks behind their respective brands. Produced in the same factories and with the same parts and components, these trucks are very similar, but what makes them any different? We asked two of our favorite sales consultants, Ben Taylor and Logan Farwell, to tell us what they think.

Ben Taylor & Logan Farwell Review

• "For the most part they are the same but the Chevy is a little less expensive"
• "You are buying the "look" on the inside, if you cover up the logo it is the same dash and steering wheel."
• "In my opinion they are the same truck until you get to the Denali trim"
• "GMC has more tech options that are not offered in the Chevy, like the GMC Ultimate Package"

Exterior Comparison

Rugged vs. Premium

When comparing these two trucks, you'll find that they may be built on the chassis but they aesthetically reflect their brands. From first glance you'll notice that the Sierra gives off a more premium vibe with it's large signature chrome grille and headlights. The Silverado wears a more rugged look with its mean signature Chevy grille and badging. Both the Sierra and the Silverado can be bought with the same cab and bed configurations; single cab/long bed, extended cab/standard bed, crew cab/short bed or crew cab standard bed.

Now each come with their own custom variation of colors and wheel configurations and styles to fit your liking. As for their rear tailgates, the GMC Sierra offers the MultiPro six-function tailgate that is not offered on the Silverado yet. It may be folded into a variety of configurations including steps, laid stops, a cut out giving you easier access to the bed and even a desk. GMC also offers an optional carbon fiber-lined bed for an extra layer of protection for those big projects.

If you take a look under the hood of both these GM cousins, you'll notice the Sierra and Silverado share the same engine options. You'll see some variation in fuel economy with the 6.2-liter V8. Both come standard with rear-wheel drive with the option for four-wheel drive. Both are great options when it comes to haul and towing as they are nearly neck to neck. Each has aggressive looking, off-road models available in the line-ups with the Sierras AT4 and the Silverados TrailBoss.

Interior Comparison

Identical Styling

When it comes to the interior, if all the badging was removed and you were blind folded upon entry, you wouldn't be able to tell which vehicle you were in. GM keeps the interiors nearly identical with the exception of the branding and logo on the steering wheel. The interior offers up a modern and functional space with generous space for full occupancy. There's great upgraded technology like new available adaptive cruise control and a bed-view camera. Enough great tech for work and fun.

When it comes to trim levels for each you will see some variations. The Sierra Denali and Silverado High Country take the cake when it comes to luxury. The Silverado High Country sports a western look with real wood trim while the sleek black leather interior. The Denali gets upgraded leather seating, adaptive ride control technology and an overall quieter ride. They come equipped with heads up display, wireless charging, heated and ventilated seating and much more.

Safety Feature Comparison

Standard Safety Features

When it comes to safety features GM has outfitted both the Sierra and Silverado with the same packages. New standard rearview camera and teen driver systems have been added. Optional safety features include forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, head-up display, and lane departure warning.

Overall Comparison

When it comes down to it these two trucks come out as pretty similar. Both run on the same GM performance packages with minor mileage differences and each have an identical interior layout with different styling options for each brand's trim levels. The Silverado is a little more bang for your buck it seems but not by much. It comes down to preference and your style.

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Stop in and visit us at McGrath GMC, McGrath Chevrolet, or McGrath Chevyland to find the perfect vehicle for you. We take pride in offering a large selection of new and used cars, trucks, and suvs for you to choose from. Our staff is committed to helping you through our swift and easy purchasing process. Visit us in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Waterloo, or Dubuque.