2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Capacity & Rating
As a full-size pickup that packs a serious punch, the GMC Sierra 1500 towing capacity is one of the many reasons why this truck is a top choice for drivers. No matter if you're hauling a trailer to the job site, towing a boat for weekend adventures, or moving heavy equipment, understanding the Sierra 1500's towing capacity and rating is essential to make the most of its abilities. Learn more about the tow rating of GMC Sierra 1500 and then visit our Lorenzo Buick GMC dealership to check out this truck for yourself.
GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Key Takeaways
- Choose from four robust powertrain options, including turbo-diesel
- Maximum towing capacity reaches between 9,500 and 13,200 pounds1
- Capable of towing large travel trailers, boats, fifth-wheel campers, and horse trailers
- Select from available towing technologies like the ProGrade Trailering System and Hitch Guidance
How Much Can a 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Tow?
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 towing capacity hits a maximum of 13,200 pounds when properly equipped. To reach this hefty rating, the Sierra 1500 must be outfitted with the Duramax 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine, the Max Trailering Package, and configured as a Double Cab 2WD with the standard bed.
2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Capacity By Engine
The Sierra 1500 provides four different powertrains, each with its own maximum towing capacity to suit different preferences. From the efficient TurboMax engine to the powerful 5.3-liter V-8, every engine delivers a balance of strength and performance.
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2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Tow Capacity by Engine |
|
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | |
| TurboMax | 9,500 lbs1 |
| 5.3L V-8 | 11,200 lbs1 |
| 6.2L V-8 | 13,000 lbs1 |
| Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel | 13,200 lbs1 |
As you can see, the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel has the highest towing rating, with the 6.2-liter V-8 close behind with 13,000 pounds.1 However, as you configure your pickup, you'll notice that not all engines are featured on every trim. For instance, when looking at a Sierra 1500 Elevation vs. Sierra 1500 SLT comparison, the 6.2-liter V-8 is offered on the SLT but not on the Elevation. The same applies to certain GMC Sierra 1500 towing accessories, which vary in availability across the lineup.
GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Capacity By Year
Anyone considering a used or new GMC Sierra 1500 is likely curious about how its towing capability has evolved over the years. Below, you'll find our easy-to-read GMC Sierra 1500 towing capacity chart, highlighting the maximum towing ratings for each model year. Use it to compare capabilities and find the truck that best fits your needs.
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GMC Sierra 1500 Tow Capacity by Year |
|
|---|---|
| Model Year | Max Towing Capacity |
| 2025 | 13,200 lbs1 |
| 2024 | 13,300 lbs1 |
| 2023 | 13,200 lbs1 |
| 2022 | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2021 | 11,800 lbs1 |
| 2020 | 12,100 lbs1 |
| 2019 | 12,200 lbs1 |
| 2018 | 12,500 lbs1 |
| 2017 | 12,500 lbs1 |
| 2016 | 12,000 lbs1 |
| 2015 | 12,000 lbs1 |
Looking at the towing ratings year by year, the Sierra 1500 has remained largely consistent in delivering strong towing output. However, the fifth generation – beginning with the 2022 model – saw a notable increase in utility, thanks to chassis enhancements that allowed for the inclusion of the Max Trailering Package.
GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Packages & Accessories
Now that we've uncovered the max GMC Sierra 1500 tow capacity by engine, it's important to remember that the powertrain is just one part of the equation. To achieve the highest towing ratings, the Sierra 1500 must also be fitted with the proper towing package. The full-size pickup offers two towing packages, which may be standard or available depending on the trim level and configuration. Here's what each one includes:
Trailering Package
- Trailer hitch
- Trailering hitch platform
- Two-inch receiver hitch with four-pin and seven-pin connectors
- Seven-wire electrical harness with a sealed seven-pin connector for trailer lighting and brake connections
- Hitch Guidance System
Max Trailering Package (required to hit 13,200-pound maximum1)
- Everything in the Trailering Package
- Increased towing capacity and GCWR
- Automatic locking rear differential
- Handling and Trailering Suspension Package
- Enhanced cooling radiator
- Revised shock tuning
- Heavy-duty rear springs and increased RGAWR
- 9.76-inch rear axle
- 3.42 axle ratio (gas) or 3.73 axle ratio (diesel)
- Integrated trailer brake controller
Additionally, buyers can also select from a number of GMC Sierra 1500 towing accessories for a smoother towing experience:
- ProGrade Trailering System: An intelligent suite of trailering technologies that simplifies hitching, towing, and monitoring.
- Hitch Guidance System: Provides dynamic guidelines on the rearview camera to help align your hitch with the trailer or camper.
- Hitch View: Provides a close-up view of the hitch area to assist with precision trailer hookups.
- Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert: Monitors blind spots alongside the trailer for added safety during lane changes.
- Auxiliary Trailer Camera: Expands visibility with additional camera angles like Rear Trailer View or Inside Trailer View.
- Up to 14 Camera Views: A comprehensive set of camera perspectives to make towing, parking, and maneuvering easier and safer.
Learn More About the Brand-New 2025 GMC Sierra 1500!
No matter if you're focused on towing capability, advanced trailering features, or overall performance, the 2025 Sierra 1500 is built to deliver. With multiple powertrains, optional towing packages, and top tech, this truck is ready for whatever the road – or work site – throws your way. Visit your Lorenzo Buick GMC today to explore trims, compare configurations, and take the Sierra 1500 for a test drive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which GMC Sierra 1500 engine is best for towing?
The best engine choice for towing in the GMC Sierra 1500 is the acclaimed Duramax 3.0-liter turbo-diesel paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain empowers your Sierra 1500 to tow up to an impressive 13,200 pounds when properly equipped. The Duramax engine comes standard on the AT4 and AT4X trims and is also available on the SLE, Elevation, SLT, Denali, and Denali Ultimate models.
What is the payload capacity of the GMC Sierra 1500?
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 offers a payload capacity ranging from 1,380 pounds to a maximum of 2,230 pounds,2 depending on the trim and configuration. To reach the top payload rating of 2,230 pounds,2 drivers will need a Sierra 1500 Regular Cab 2WD equipped with the TurboMax engine, paired with either the standard bed or long bed.
Does the GMC Sierra 1500 have towing assist features?
Yes, the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 offers a range of standard and available towing assist add-ons, including the ProGrade Trailering System, Hitch Guidance with Hitch View, an auxiliary trailer camera, Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert, and an in-vehicle trailering app that provides custom trailer profiles, maintenance reminders, and pre-departure checklists. These advanced systems are designed to make towing safer, easier, and more confident.
What can a GMC Sierra 1500 tow?
With a maximum 13,200-pound towing capacity,1 the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 can handle:
- Large travel trailers and fifth-wheel campers
- Horse and livestock trailers
- Large boats up to 35 feet
- Car haulers or toy haulers with ATVs, motorcycles, or Jet Skis
- Equipment trailers or heavy-duty utility trailers loaded with materials
Always check your truck's specific towing ratings based on configuration.
1GM-estimated. Maximum trailering ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer.
2These maximum payload ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it to haul people or cargo, carefully review the vehicle loading section of the Owner's Manual and check the carrying capacity of your specific vehicle on the label on the inside of the driver's door jamb.