2021 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2022 RAM 1500
Overview | |
MSRP$30,100 | MSRP$29,650 |
Average price$40,525 | Average price$38,477 |
Listings3173 | Listings6259 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews5.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews SummaryGMC is the “professional grade” brand at General Motors, but that’s just marketing mumbo jumbo. The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is the same thing as a Chevrolet Silverado 1500, but with different styling and a handful of unique features, like an optional carbon-fiber composite cargo bed. This year, GMC makes several changes to its full-size light-duty pickup truck, none of them earth-shattering. This remains a fundamentally appealing truck in need of attention to the details. | |
2022 RAM 1500 Reviews SummaryIn 2021, the Ram pickup line overtook the Chevrolet Silverado as the second-best-selling truck in America. That’s the headline. The nuance is that sales figures include the previous-generation version, now sold as the Ram 1500 Classic, which remains in production four years after its should have died. Also, General Motors suffered significant production disruptions due to the ongoing chip shortage. Nevertheless, and especially in light of the redesigned Toyota Tundra arriving in the market, we thought it would be good to revisit the most popular of the Ram trucks, the 2022 Ram 1500. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Engine3.6L 305 hp V6 |
Drive Train4X2 | Drive Train4X2 |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity3 |
Horsepower | Horsepower305 hp @ 6400 rpm |
MPG City16 | MPG City17 |
MPG Highway21 | MPG Highway25 |
Engine | |
Engine Name4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Engine Name3.6L 305 hp V6 |
Torque | Torque269 lb-ft @ 4175 rpm |
Horsepower | Horsepower305 hp @ 6400 rpm |
Drivetrain4X2 | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City16 | MPG City17 |
MPG Highway21 | MPG Highway25 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity3 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Bed Length98.2 in | Bed Length76.3 in |
Curb Weight4520 lbs | Curb Weight4516 lbs |
Height75.6 in | Height74.6 in |
Length229.6 in | Length209.0 in |
Width81.2 in | Width79.4 in |
Wheelbase139.6 in | Wheelbase120.5 in |
Maximum Payload2250 lbs | Maximum Payload1510 lbs |
Number of doors2 | Number of doors2 |
Maximum Towing Capacity9900 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity9210 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity7800 lbs | Standard Towing Capacity4950 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $30,100 | $29,650 |
Average price | $40,525 | $38,477 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 5.7 out of 10Read full review | 7.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | GMC is the “professional grade” brand at General Motors, but that’s just marketing mumbo jumbo. The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is the same thing as a Chevrolet Silverado 1500, but with different styling and a handful of unique features, like an optional carbon-fiber composite cargo bed. This year, GMC makes several changes to its full-size light-duty pickup truck, none of them earth-shattering. This remains a fundamentally appealing truck in need of attention to the details. | In 2021, the Ram pickup line overtook the Chevrolet Silverado as the second-best-selling truck in America. That’s the headline. The nuance is that sales figures include the previous-generation version, now sold as the Ram 1500 Classic, which remains in production four years after its should have died. Also, General Motors suffered significant production disruptions due to the ongoing chip shortage. Nevertheless, and especially in light of the redesigned Toyota Tundra arriving in the market, we thought it would be good to revisit the most popular of the Ram trucks, the 2022 Ram 1500. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | 3.6L 305 hp V6 |
Drive Train | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Seating Capacity | 3 | 3 |
Horsepower | 305 hp @ 6400 rpm | |
MPG City | 16 | 17 |
MPG Highway | 21 | 25 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | 3.6L 305 hp V6 |
Torque | 269 lb-ft @ 4175 rpm | |
Horsepower | 305 hp @ 6400 rpm | |
Drivetrain | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 16 | 17 |
MPG Highway | 21 | 25 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 3 | 3 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Bed Length | 98.2 in | 76.3 in |
Curb Weight | 4520 lbs | 4516 lbs |
Height | 75.6 in | 74.6 in |
Length | 229.6 in | 209.0 in |
Width | 81.2 in | 79.4 in |
Wheelbase | 139.6 in | 120.5 in |
Maximum Payload | 2250 lbs | 1510 lbs |
Number of doors | 2 | 2 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 9900 lbs | 9210 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 7800 lbs | 4950 lbs |
Look and feel
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is heralded as General Motors' "professional grade" truck, distinct from its Chevrolet Silverado cousin through unique styling and specific features like an optional carbon-fiber cargo bed. This year, it introduces several updates to enhance its appeal, though it continues to require refinement in detail to fully realize its potential.
In contrast, the 2022 Ram 1500 has surged in popularity, overtaking the Chevrolet Silverado in sales and boasting a lineup that includes the venerable Ram 1500 Classic. Despite the challenges posed by production disruptions, the Ram 1500 remains a formidable contender in the full-size pickup truck market, especially with its array of trim levels and the introduction of the high-performance TRX variant.
Performance
Both the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and 2022 Ram 1500 receive a CarGurus rating of 9 out of 10 for performance. The Sierra's DuRamax 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine offers an appealing mix of power and efficiency at a competitive price, despite the truck's interior shortcomings. Its performance in various conditions, from city driving to off-roading, demonstrates its capability and versatility.
The Ram 1500's range of engines, including the notable EcoDiesel V6, provides robust towing capacity and excellent fuel economy. The truck's ride quality is enhanced by its unique suspension setup, offering a level of comfort and handling that rivals luxury vehicles, though its size can be cumbersome in tight spaces.
Form and function
In terms of form and function, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and 2022 Ram 1500 exhibit distinctive approaches to design, comfort, and utility that cater to the diverse needs of full-size truck buyers.
The GMC Sierra 1500's cabin prioritizes durability and functionality, with seating that balances comfort and resilience. Its leather may not exude luxury, yet it promises longevity, complemented by heated and cooled front seats and a heated steering wheel for climate adaptability. The Sierra facilitates ease of access with high-clearance side rails and a versatile MultiPro tailgate, enhancing its practicality. The CarbonPro Edition introduces a carbon fiber composite cargo bed, not only reducing weight but also increasing resistance to dents, scratches, and corrosion. This innovation slightly boosts the payload capacity, with the Sierra's cargo space being among the most generous in its class, barring the Silverado. However, when it comes to towing, the Sierra equipped with the Duramax diesel can tow up to 9,300 pounds and handle a payload of up to 2,150 pounds, showcasing its robust utility despite cabin storage limitations.
The Ram 1500, conversely, merges functionality with luxury, especially evident in the Limited trim. Its interior is a testament to thoughtful design, offering heated and ventilated seats both front and rear, alongside a slightly reclining back seat for enhanced passenger comfort. The Ram's attention to detail extends to practical storage solutions throughout the cabin, including innovative Ram Bins under the rear floor for concealed storage. The multi-function tailgate and optional RamBox storage bins augment the truck's utility, facilitating easier loading and unloading. The Ram 1500 does not lag in capability either; with the EcoDiesel engine, it boasts a towing capacity of up to 12,560 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,780 pounds in specific configurations. This blend of comfort, luxury, and performance underlines the Ram 1500's comprehensive approach to meeting the needs of truck owners.
Both trucks demonstrate a commitment to combining form and function, though they prioritize these elements differently. The Sierra 1500 focuses on rugged functionality and off-road prowess, particularly with the AT4 variant, while the Ram 1500 leans towards a luxurious user experience without compromising on utility, as shown by its superior towing and payload capacities.
Technology
Technology ratings for both trucks stand at 7 out of 10. The Sierra 1500 offers a suite of camera-based visibility aids and connectivity features, though its infotainment system and audio options do not lead the segment. The Ram 1500's Uconnect 5 system represents a significant improvement in responsiveness and user experience, with advanced features like digital assistant integration and a premium sound system enhancing the driving experience.
Safety
The GMC Sierra 1500's safety offerings are seen as lacking, with essential features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking not standard across all trims. Its crash-test ratings also leave room for improvement. The Ram 1500, meanwhile, boasts a more comprehensive suite of driver aids and has earned higher ratings from safety organizations, underscoring its commitment to occupant protection.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is 5.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Ram 1500 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Ram 1500 emerges as the recommended choice for consumers seeking a full-size pickup truck that combines performance, luxury, and practicality.
Choose the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 if:
- You value unique styling and the status associated with the Denali trim.
- Off-road capability is a priority, particularly with the AT4 variant.
- An affordable diesel engine option is crucial for your needs.
3177 results
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Choose the 2022 RAM 1500 if:
- Superior ride quality and cabin luxury are top priorities.
- You desire advanced technology and safety features.
- A versatile range of trim levels and customization options is important.
6274 results
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CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is 5.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Ram 1500 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Ram 1500 emerges as the recommended choice for consumers seeking a full-size pickup truck that combines performance, luxury, and practicality.
Choose the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 if:
Shop Now- You value unique styling and the status associated with the Denali trim.
- Off-road capability is a priority, particularly with the AT4 variant.
- An affordable diesel engine option is crucial for your needs.
3177 results
Choose the 2022 RAM 1500 if:
Shop Now- Superior ride quality and cabin luxury are top priorities.
- You desire advanced technology and safety features.
- A versatile range of trim levels and customization options is important.
6274 results
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.
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