Year after year, two of the most popular truck models are the GMC Sierra 1500 and the Ford F-150. However, there are some significant differences between these pickups, so one of them may be a better fit for your needs and preferences over the other. Below, we’ll compare the latest versions of the two models to help you decide which is right for you.
What’s New in the 2025 Models?
For 2025, both trucks are largely unchanged from their 2024 predecessors. For the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500, you can expect a few minor tweaks, such as new 22-inch wheels. The Sierra received a refresh in 2022, so it will likely remain largely the same for a few more model years. As for the 2025 F-150 changes, this Ford also remains essentially unchanged, with the most notable differences being a new Pro Access Tailgate and a standard 12-inch infotainment system. So, if you liked either of these models in recent years, you’re sure to enjoy the latest 2025 editions as well.
Performance and Powertrain Options
Let’s take a look at what these two trucks have to offer in terms of performance. With the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500, you have four engine options to choose from and either rear- or four-wheel drive.
- A turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder that produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque
- A 5.3-liter V-8 EcoTec3 that produces 355 horsepower
- A 6.2-liter V-8 EcoTec3 that produces 420 horsepower
- A diesel six-cylinder, which generates 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque
All three of the latter engines hook up to a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the standard 2.7-liter engine combines with an eight-speed automatic.
As with the Sierra, there are a few Ford F-150 engine options to choose from, including:
- A 2.7-liter V-6 that produces 325 horsepower
- A 5.0-liter V-8 that produces 400 horsepower
- A 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 400 horsepower
- A high-output 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 450 horsepower
- A high-output 5.2-liter V-8 that produces 720 horsepower
Besides these traditional gas-powered engines, the Ford F-150 is also available with a hybrid system that uses a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and electric motor to produce 430 horsepower. No matter which engine option you select, it’ll pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and you can choose between rear- and four-wheel drive for any of the powertrains.
Towing and Payload Capacity
A common priority for truck buyers is towing and payload capacity. Thankfully, both models perform well in this regard. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of 13,200 pounds and a payload capacity of 2,530 pounds when properly equipped. 2025 F-150 models max out at 13,500 pounds when you get the twin-turbo 400 horsepower engine, while the maximum payload capacity is 2,440 pounds. This means, at their best, the GMC Sierra 1500 has the higher payload capacity while the F-150 has a narrow edge in towing capacity.
Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact
With different powertrain options — along with body styles, chassis lengths, and bed lengths — available for both models, there are different fuel efficiency ratings depending on your chosen setup. If you want the most fuel-efficient Sierra, go with the diesel engine, which results in up to 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, the more popular 6.2-liter V-8 is still plenty efficient, with ratings of around 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
With the Ford F-150, you’ll get 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway when you go with the turbocharged V-6 engine, while upgrading to the twin-turbo 3.5-liter drops those estimates to 17/25 mpg city/highway. Of course, for the most fuel-efficient driving experience, select the hybrid F-150, which is rated at 22/24 mpg city/highway. As fuel efficiency can vary based on your specific truck configuration, we highly recommend exploring each truck’s ratings in more depth once you know what kind of setup you need.
Interior and Comfort Features
Moving inside, both the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 and the 2025 Ford F-150 offer comfortable and modern cabins but cater to different audiences. The Sierra offers more of an upscale driving experience, especially on higher trims such as the Denali and Denali Ultimate. This is thanks to additions including real wood, leather, massaging front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column.
Conversely, the F-150 has a design tailored more toward work. With the Ford, you’ll find elements such as a shifter that tucks away to create a mobile workstation and fold-flat front seats that make it more suitable for a job site. Which interior you prefer will likely come down to how you primarily intend to use your truck. If you want a more enjoyable everyday experience and a comfortable ride for your family, check out the Sierra. For a truck that’s more useful for weekend projects and on the job, explore the F-150.
Infotainment and Safety Technology
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 and Ford F-150 have the latest technologies to make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient. Both models come standard with a touch-screen infotainment system — a 12-inch screen in the F-150 and a 7-inch screen in the Sierra, the latter of which offers a larger 13.4-inch version.
Also included with both trucks are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrations, making connecting your smartphone a breeze and adding more functionality to the system. As for premium audio options, the Sierra offers a 12-speaker Bose system, while the F-150 can be equipped with a Bang & Olufsen system.
In terms of safety technology, both trucks offer similar features — the difference lies in which come standard. For instance, the GMC Sierra 1500 has lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision alert starting at the base trim, while these features are only available in higher trims on the F-150. Both models come standard with automated emergency braking.
Which Truck Is Right for You?
To learn more about which truck is right for you, please visit us at Titus-Will Chevrolet GMC Cadillac in Olympia, Washington. We’d be happy to show you the latest GMC Sierra 1500 models and discuss how they compare with the new F-150s. Get started today by prequalifying for financing, valuing your trade-in, or contacting us to schedule a test-drive at our dealership.
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