While horsepower is important, torque becomes more critical when you want to tow (more about this later). The GMC Sierra 1500’s best-in-class standard torque of 430 lb-ft far exceeds the standard output of 400 lb-ft in the Ford F-150.

Plus, only the Sierra 1500 offers an available turbo-diesel engine that combines plenty of power while yielding greater efficiency, allowing you to travel up to 35% farther in between fuel-ups. The combination of power and efficiency makes it a top pick for those in need of an everyday commuter that packs a punch.

Sadly, the F-150 doesn’t offer a diesel option, meaning it’s likely to fall behind in the performance arena when compared to the Sierra 1500.

A benefit of driving a truck like the GMC Sierra 1500 or the Ford F-150 is roaming without limitation. You can wander off the asphalt and take the less-traveled road (or non-road). This is especially important when towing a boat or camping trailer, since we all know the best outdoor locations are sometimes hard to find. So, it’s advantageous to have some performance features ready to handle whatever you encounter.

The Traction Select System in the Sierra 1500 allows you to switch among available settings to match conditions and ensure optimal performance. The GMC modes include, among others:

• Tour
• Sport
• Terrain
• Tow/Haul
• Off-Road

Also built to explore the natural world, the Ford F-150 offers similar selectable drive modes. Yet, the Ford can’t compete with the durable capabilities of the GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 and AT4X trim levels. Specifically designed to conquer the unknown, these trims feature underbody skid plates, steel front and rear bumpers with winch capability, and an off-road rocker panel protector, among other features.

When it comes to transporting lumber, home and garden supplies, or moving boxes in the bed of your truck, size matters. Speaking of (cargo) boxes, the GMC Sierra 1500’s available GMC CarbonPro™ Composite Bed offers a best-in-class short bed cargo volume of 63.9 cubic feet, more than 10 extra cubic feet than the similarly sized F-150’s 52.8 cubic feet.

Each truck is offered in a variety of bed lengths, giving you the customization needed to match your truck to your work requirements. Even when comparing the long-bed sizes of the Sierra 1500 and the F-150, the GMC continues to dominate:

• Sierra 1500 Max Cargo Volume: 89.1 cubic feet
• F-150 Max Cargo Volume: 77.4 cubic feet

To monitor your surroundings, the F-150 has an optional 360-degree camera with a split-view display. While helpful, the GMC once again outperforms the Ford by providing that and so much more, with up to 14 available camera views.

Unlike the F-150 that only views vehicle surroundings, the Sierra 1500 includes bed, hitch, inside trailer, and top-down views for a more complete picture. As a result, you’ll more easily maneuver your pickup—even with a trailer in tow—through narrow streets or tight parking lots with increased peace of mind.

Of course, loading, unloading, and accessing the cargo in your pickup’s bed is equally important as how much space it provides. For the latest model year, Ford offers the new Pro Access Tailgate for the F-150. The innovative swing gate opens to a full 100 degrees, letting you access the cargo area 19 inches closer than with a traditional tailgate.

While impressive, the Pro Access Tailgate falls short of the GMC Sierra 1500 and the world’s first 6-function MultiPro™ Tailgate. When optionally equipped, this revolutionary tailgate can be configured in one of six ways, including a load stop, full-width, step, and traditional tailgate, offering more ways to tailor your Sierra 1500 to your ever-changing needs.

Plus, this workhorse feature enables you to tackle job duties by day and then turn into a party animal by converting the job site into a tailgate event once the workday is done. The available integrated MultiPro™ Audio System by KICKER® will supply the jams. Sadly, the F-150 has no similar enhancement.

You have big plans for your new pickup. Between cross-country road trips and exploring uncharted terrain, it’s essential that you and your crew remain comfortable across every stretch of highway. The GMC Sierra 1500 ensures that by providing best-in-class front headroom and legroom in its Crew Cab configuration.

To up the ante in the comfort department, you can outfit either model’s cabin with premium materials, including available leather and heated/ventilated seats.

In-vehicle technology is a requirement for today’s drivers, and these pickups are ready to deliver in a big way—although one a bit bigger than the other. In addition to similar connectivity, including standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and a Wi-Fi® hotspot, they provide a central touchscreen to access apps, maps, music, and more.

Still, you can view your infotainment, navigation, and speed and driving information more easily in the GMC. The Sierra 1500 provides over 40 inches of available combined digital displays:

• 13.4-inch center touchscreen with Google built-in
• 12.3-inch customizable Driver Information Center
• 15-inch Head-Up Display

With only dual 12-inch display screens, the Ford F-150 falls behind in the digital arena. With the GMC Sierra 1500, all information is neatly organized and easy to view, allowing you to stay connected and informed while keeping your eyes on the road.