The 2021 Ford F-250 and GMC Sierra 2500HD are a pair of heavy-duty trucks with a lot of overlap — like diesel power, massive towing and hauling capabilities, and a wide range of trim models and options. So which should you choose? Our comparison guide is here to help you with the details.
Power and Performance: 2021 Ford F-250
While the 2021 Sierra 2500HD offers a stronger standard performance, the 2021 Ford F-250 offers a stronger diesel engine. Indeed, its Power Stroke 6.7-liter diesel V8 delivers an incredible output of 475 horsepower and 1,050 pound-feet of torque. The Sierra’s Duramax 6.6-liter diesel V8 is a close contender, however, supplying 445 horses and 910 pound-feet of torque.
Heavy-duty drivers more focused on payloads may prefer these trucks’ gas-powered engine options. The Sierra’s base engine, a gas-powered 6.6-liter V8, offers the strongest standard power rating, with 401 horses and 464 pound-feet of torque.
By comparison, the 2021 F-250’s base engine, a gas-powered 6.2-liter V8, makes 385 horses and 430 pound-feet of torque. However, the F-250 also offers a bigger gas-powered option. Choose the 7.3-liter V8 for extra help hauling bigger payloads, compliments of its 430 horses and 475 pound-feet of torque.
Towing and Payload Capacity: 2021 Ford F-250
With both heavy-duty trucks, towing and hauling capabilities vary according to powertrain, body style, and equipment. However, the F-250 that ultimately moves bigger trailers and more cargo. With a conventional trailer hitch, the F-250 tows up to 24,400 pounds. With a fifth-wheel/gooseneck setup, the F-250 can tow up to 37,000 pounds. Properly equipped, this Ford Super Duty can haul payloads weighing up to 7,850 pounds.
Because the Sierra 2500HD is only offered with a single-rear-wheel setup, it can’t handle nearly as much weight. Properly equipped, GMC’s heavy-duty truck can tow up to 18,500 pounds. Payloads max out at 3,979 pounds.
Tech and Safety Gear: 2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Every Sierra 2500HD trim model comes standard with a touch-screen infotainment system and cutting edge smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Inside the 2021 Ford F-250, all but the base XL trucks include an impressive touch-screen infotainment setup, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration.
Both heavy-duty trucks offer the usual range of high-tech safety aids. Blind-spot monitoring systems, for example, come in handy when you’re switching lanes in one of these big trucks. And their respective automatic emergency braking systems can apply the brakes when they sense a pending crash.
Range of Options: 2021 Ford F-250
Looking to put the most affordable price on a heavy-duty truck? Or do you prefer all-out luxury? With its six trim models and upscale options, the 2021 Ford F-250 serves the widest range of heavy-duty drivers. The base XL starts at $35,925, a little less than the Sierra 2500HD’s starting MSRP, $37,795. And the top trim models —including the Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited — add plenty of style to your daily cruise.
The Sierra 2500HD lets you choose from five trim models, including the off-road-ready AT4 and upscale Denali. However, drivers with a taste for the finer things may find that the Denali’s fit and finish can’t quite compete with the classier F-250 models.
Endnotes
The 2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD is comfortable and capable, but the 2021 Ford F-250 has more to offer. To enjoy greater diesel power and heavy-duty towing and hauling capabilities, you need Ford’s Super Duty truck.