2025 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Towing Capacity and Specs Compared

When it comes to full-size light-duty pickups, the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 continue to set benchmarks in capability and choice. Built on the same platform and sharing the same core powertrains, these two trucks are close cousins. But while their engines and basic towing specs align closely, their available packages, trims, and configurations introduce subtle differences that matter to buyers.

This article offers a full breakdown of what each model can tow, what engines are available, and how different cab and drivetrain combinations affect towing performance. Whether you're hauling for work or towing a camper for the weekend, this guide helps you compare the Silverado and Sierra to find the right fit.

Shared Powertrains, Distinct Presentations

Both the Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 offer four engine options for 2025:

• 2.7L Turbo I4 (L3B)
• 5.3L V8 (L84)
• 6.2L V8 (L87)
• 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 (LZ0)

These engines are mechanically identical in both trucks, delivering the same horsepower and torque figures. Towing capacity, however, can vary slightly due to package availability and axle ratios tied to specific trim levels.

Silverado 1500: Engine Specs and Towing Capacity by Configuration

The 2025 Silverado 1500 offers a wide range of configurations and four distinct powertrains. The table below summarizes maximum towing capacities by engine and cab style, using accurate data and assuming proper equipment such as the Max Trailering Package when required.

Note: All maximum towing capacities require proper drivetrain, axle ratio, and Max Trailering Package where applicable. Always verify final ratings for your specific configuration.

The Silverado offers a broader range of work-ready configurations, especially for fleets, with Regular Cab Long Bed options still available — a rarity in the segment.

Towing Capacity Overview: GMC Sierra 1500

The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500, while mechanically similar, focuses more on premium content and packaging. However, when equipped with the NHT Max Trailering Package, it matches the Silverado’s top capability of 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) with either the 6.2L V8 or 3.0L Duramax diesel.

Sierra 1500 Maximum Towing by Engine (lbs)

Requires NHT Max Trailering Package for top figures; not all trims offer this option.

What distinguishes the Sierra most is its emphasis on premium trims like Denali Ultimate and AT4X, which combine high towing capacity with luxury and off-road capability. The diesel’s strong torque and quiet operation make it a popular choice in Denali configurations.

Comparing Silverado vs. Sierra in Real-World Towing

Although both models can reach the same maximum tow rating of 13,300 lbs, there are subtle distinctions in how and where those figures are available. For instance:

• The Silverado offers slightly more variation in lower trims and work-truck configurations.
• The Sierra restricts high-tow packages to upper trims or the addition of the Max Trailering Package (NHT).
• Both models require 3.42 or 3.73 axle ratios (depending on engine) to achieve peak towing capacity.
• Diesel models provide the best combination of efficiency and torque, and remain available in both lineups with nearly identical towing outputs.

Buyers should also note that not every cab and drivetrain combo supports the Max Trailering Package, particularly in Regular Cab setups. If towing over 11,000 lbs is a priority, focusing on a Double Cab 4WD or Crew Cab 2WD/4WD with the Max Trailering Package is essential.

Off-Road Trims and Towing: ZR2, AT4, and Beyond

Both Chevrolet and GMC offer specialized off-road trims that add trail-ready hardware, aggressive design, and enhanced suspension setups—but these trims can also affect towing capability depending on how they're equipped.

Chevrolet Silverado ZR2

The Silverado ZR2 is Chevy’s most off-road-focused 1500 trim. It comes exclusively with the 6.2L V8 or the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel, and includes Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear e-locking differentials, skid plates, and unique bumpers for better clearance. While it prioritizes off-road performance, it still maintains solid towing capabilities:

• 6.2L ZR2: Up to 8,800 lbs of towing capacity
• 3.0L Duramax ZR2: Up to 9,100 lbs of towing capacity

That’s less than the 13,300 lbs maximum offered in other trims, but still plenty capable for light trailers, off-road campers, or recreational gear. The trade-off here is suspension articulation and ground clearance over sheer pulling power.

GMC Sierra AT4 and AT4X

The Sierra lineup features two key off-road trims:

• AT4: Offers off-road suspension, a 2-inch lift, Rancho shocks, and the 5.3L or 3.0L diesel engines
• AT4X: More advanced version of AT4, similar in purpose to ZR2, and available with the 6.2L V8 or Duramax I6

In terms of towing:

• AT4: With the 3.0L diesel, towing can reach up to 13,000 lbs when equipped with the Max Trailering Package
• AT4X: Towing capacity maxes out closer to 9,000–9,300 lbs, depending on the engine

Like the ZR2, these trims sacrifice maximum tow ratings for additional off-road ability, crawl ratios, and durability on rugged terrain. However, their available diesel configurations give them a practical edge for drivers needing a capable off-roader that can still haul a moderate trailer or utility load.

Luxury-Oriented Trims: High Country and Denali Ultimate

For buyers seeking towing and refinement, the Silverado High Country and Sierra Denali/Denali Ultimate trims combine luxury with capability. Both can be optioned with the 3.0L Duramax or 6.2L V8, and can tow close to the platform’s maximum when paired with the appropriate axle ratios and trailering packages.

These trims are ideal for those who tow long distances in comfort—horse trailers, enclosed haulers, or boats—while enjoying premium interiors, advanced trailering tech, and features like adaptive ride control or Super Cruise (in Denali Ultimate).

Conclusion: Two Capable Trucks, One Proven Foundation

The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 are built on the same chassis and powered by the same engines—and that means you can expect nearly identical towing capability between the two. Where they differ is in packaging and presentation: the Silverado provides a broader lineup with more configurations geared toward work, while the Sierra emphasizes refinement, premium options, and advanced features.

Both trucks support impressive towing capability when properly equipped. Whether you value premium touches and off-road sophistication (Sierra) or pragmatic versatility and wider trim availability (Silverado), either model will confidently tow boats, trailers, or work gear across long distances.

Ultimately, the choice between Silverado and Sierra comes down to which experience you want around the capability, not the capability itself.