2017 RAM 1500 vs 2017 GMC Sierra 1500
Posted on March 10, 2020
As they pretty much dominate the domestic auto market these days, it's hardly surprising we have such a selection of outstanding full-size light-duty pickups to choose from here in America. Those of a patriotic nature will enjoy the fact this incredibly important sector is still dominated by domestic manufacturers, so let's take a look at how two of the best shape up against each other with a comparison between the 2017 Ram 1500 and the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 to see which comes out on top.
Styling
A domestic full-size pickup truck is no shrinking violet, so don't expect any subtle nuances about the way either of these two look. They're both big and square with little place for seductive curves, although they're actually more aerodynamic designs than you might believe looking at them. The GMC Sierra 1500 is a pretty straightforward design with a bluff, flat front fascia that could easily be mistaken for one of its GM stable mates if it wasn't for the badge. However, the Ram 1500 has a much more individual face that's more stylish, more individual and more aggressive than its rival here, so first blood here goes to the Ram.
Engines
While styling is always going to be a big deal for a lot of buyers, what engine you can get in the truck you're considering is even more important. There are three different engine options for the Ram, and they really do cover all the bases as there's a V-6, a V-8 and a V-6 turbodiesel. The 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 has the most power with 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, but the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 is no slouch either with 305 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft. For a combination of power and fuel-economy, the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 is a great choice with 420 lb.-ft. of torque and highway fuel economy of 9.7 L/100 km.
You can have more power and torque from the 6.2-liter EcoTec V-8 that's available for the GMC Sierra, but the base engine doesn't have as much horsepower as the Ram and there's no diesel option at all, so this is another win for the Ram 1500.
Capability
Trucks are built to do a job, so buyers need to know what the maximum payload and tow ratings are to be able to make an informed choice. The maximum payload capacity for the Ram is 853 kg with a 3.6-liter gas V-6 Regular or Quad Cab. The most you can tow with a Ram 1500 is 4,826 kg with a V-8 Regular cab. When properly specified, the GMC Sierra does have a slight advantage here with a maximum payload of 1,012 kg and a maximum tow rating of 5,443 kg, so this section goes to the GMC.
Verdict
The GMC Sierra 1500 does have the edge when it comes to maximum capabilities, but if you're going to be pushing a truck to its limits you're probably better off looking at a heavy-duty model instead. In almost every other way the Ram is a better buy, and the fact it's available with a fuel-efficient diesel engine definitely makes it our winner here.
The 2017 Ram 1500 is available now from Caledon Chrysler, so get in touch today for more details and to arrange a test drive.