The 2026 GMC Sierra HD lineup delivers exceptional towing capability across multiple configurations, with maximum conventional towing reaching 9,072 kg (20,000 lbs) and fifth-wheel capacity up to 9,933 kg (21,900 lbs). From construction equipment and recreational trailers to commercial loads across Ontario, cab style, drivetrain, and engine choice directly affect towing performance and determine the right Sierra HD for your application.
This guide breaks down towing specifications across the 2500 HD and 3500 HD models, explains how configuration impacts capability, and highlights key features that make the Sierra HD a capable heavy-duty work truck in the Toronto area.
|
Configuration |
Engine |
Max Conventional Towing |
Max Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing |
|
2500 HD Crew Cab 4WD (Diesel, NHT Package) |
6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel |
9,072 kg (20,000 lbs) |
9,933 kg (21,900 lbs) |
|
3500 HD Crew Cab 4WD DRW (Diesel) |
6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel |
9,072 kg (20,000 lbs) |
9,344 kg (20,600 lbs) |
|
2500 HD Crew Cab 4WD (Gas) |
6.6L V8 Gas |
7,257 kg (16,000 lbs) |
8,392 kg (18,500 lbs) |
|
3500 HD Crew Cab 4WD SRW (Diesel) |
6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel |
8,346 kg (18,400 lbs) |
9,253 kg (20,400 lbs) |
The Sierra 2500 HD with the 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine and NHT (Max Trailering) Package delivers the highest conventional towing capacity in the lineup at 9,072 kg (20,000 lbs). Fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing reaches 9,933 kg (21,900 lbs) in the same configuration with a long bed.
Cab configuration and bed length directly impact towing capability:
Regular Cab:
Double Cab:
Crew Cab:
Crew Cab configurations with the NHT Package offer the best combination of passenger space and maximum towing capability. Long bed models provide additional fifth-wheel towing capacity compared to standard bed variants.
Both 2WD and 4WD configurations are available across the Sierra HD lineup. Towing capacity differences between drivetrains are minimal in most configurations:
Four-wheel drive adds versatility for challenging terrain and winter conditions common in Ontario, with negligible impact on maximum towing ratings when properly equipped.
The 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine delivers 470 hp at 2,800 rpm and 975 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm. This powertrain pairs with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission and includes an integrated exhaust brake for enhanced control on descents.
Key specifications:
The diesel engine provides maximum towing capability across all Sierra HD configurations and delivers strong low-end torque for pulling heavy loads from a standstill.
The 6.6L V8 gas engine produces 401 hp at 5,200 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine option offers lower upfront cost compared to the diesel while maintaining strong towing capability.
Key specifications:
The gas V8 delivers 7,257 kg (16,000 lbs) maximum conventional towing in Crew Cab 4WD configurations—sufficient for most recreational and light commercial applications.
The 2500 HD provides heavy-duty capability without dual rear wheels. Available in Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab configurations with 2WD or 4WD:
Towing highlights:
Ideal applications:
The 3500 HD offers both single rear wheel (SRW) and dual rear wheel (DRW) configurations. DRW models provide the highest payload capacity in the lineup:
Towing highlights:
Ideal applications:
The 3500 HD DRW configuration delivers the highest payload capacity. Commercial applications with bed loads exceeding 2,722 kg (6,000 lbs) require this model's enhanced capacity and stability.
The Sierra HD AT4 and AT4X trims combine heavy-duty towing capability with off-road performance. Both are available exclusively in 4WD Crew Cab configurations.
Starting MSRP: $100,833
Towing capacity:
Key features:
Starting MSRP: $117,033
Towing capacity:
Key features:
The AT4X trades some towing capacity for enhanced off-road capability. Buyers who frequently tow near maximum ratings should consider the standard AT4, while those prioritizing trail performance benefit from the AT4X's suspension and tyre package.
AT4X AEV Edition Package ($10,930):
The 3500 HD AT4 (single rear wheel) offers similar off-road features with increased payload capacity:
Towing capacity:
This configuration balances off-road capability with higher payload ratings compared to the 2500 HD AT4X.
All Sierra HD models use an Allison 10L1000 10-speed automatic transmission designed specifically for heavy-duty applications. This transmission provides:
Gear ratios range from 4.54:1 in first gear to 0.63:1 in tenth gear, with final drive ratios of 3.73 for the gas engine and 3.42 for the diesel.
The 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine includes an integrated exhaust brake that provides additional engine braking on descents. This feature reduces brake wear and improves control when towing heavy loads through hilly terrain.
Sierra HD models offer advanced trailering features:
These systems help manage heavy loads safely in urban traffic and on highways throughout Ontario.
Interior dimensions:
Cargo bed volume:
2500 HD and 3500 HD:
Longer wheelbase configurations provide improved stability when towing fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers, while shorter wheelbase models offer better manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
Payload capacity varies significantly based on cab style, drivetrain, and rear wheel configuration:
2500 HD (highest payload configurations):
3500 HD DRW (highest payload configurations):
The 3500 HD DRW provides more than double the payload capacity of the 2500 HD, making it essential for commercial applications requiring heavy bed loads.
Recommended: 2500 HD Crew Cab 4WD with 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel and NHT Package
This configuration delivers 9,072 kg (20,000 lbs) conventional towing and 9,933 kg (21,900 lbs) fifth-wheel capacity while maintaining seating for five passengers. The Crew Cab provides comfortable daily driving for work crews, and 4WD adds versatility for winter conditions and job sites across Ontario.
Recommended: 3500 HD Crew Cab 4WD DRW with 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel
With 3,740 kg (8,246 lbs) maximum payload capacity, this configuration handles heavy bed loads while maintaining strong towing capability. The dual rear wheel setup provides stability when carrying maximum payload and towing simultaneously.
Recommended: 2500 HD AT4 with 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel
The AT4 maintains 9,072 kg (20,000 lbs) conventional towing capacity while adding off-road suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain capability. Unpaved roads, remote job sites, and maximum towing requirements align with this configuration.
Recommended: 2500 HD Crew Cab 4WD with 6.6L V8 Gas Engine
The gas V8 delivers 7,257 kg (16,000 lbs) conventional towing—sufficient for most recreational and light commercial applications—at a lower upfront cost than diesel configurations. This setup handles travel trailers, equipment trailers, and smaller fifth-wheels while offering E85 FlexFuel capability.
The 2026 GMC Sierra HD lineup offers comprehensive towing capability across multiple configurations, with the flexibility to match your specific hauling needs. From the 2500 HD's balance of capability and manoeuvrability to the 3500 HD DRW's maximum payload ratings, each model delivers the performance required for demanding work and recreation across Ontario.
Visit Humberview Chevrolet Buick GMC in Toronto to explore the complete Sierra HD lineup. Discuss which configuration matches your towing requirements, compare trim levels and engine options, and configure the right heavy-duty truck for your application.
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