The 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 HD can tow up to 20,000 pounds when equipped with the available 6.6-liter turbo-diesel engine,1 making it tied for the highest GMC Sierra 2500 HD towing capacity since the model's introduction. However, can all trim levels achieve this rating? At Haley Auto Group, we'll help you decide on the combination of comfort, convenience, and towing strength that makes your upcoming projects and vacations worthwhile.
In terms of tow capacity, all trims of the new GMC Sierra 2500 HD for sale can tow the same 20,000-pound conventional limit.1 This is because all seven trim levels are capable of the same Crew Cab Standard Bed or Crew Cab Long Bed. However, for the maximum gooseneck towing capability of 22,500 pounds,1 the model will require a Regular Cab and 2WD drivetrain.
If you need even more GMC Sierra HD towing capacity, consider scanning our new GMC inventory for a 3500 HD.
The towing capacity chart for the GMC Sierra 2500 may look complicated as you move toward the first generation. The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) refers to the total weight of your vehicle and trailer. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) refers to the overall weight of your model, cargo, and tongue weight, and points to a stable towing experience.
| Year | Generation | Best Engine | Best Drivetrain | Towing Capacity / GCWR / GVWR |
| 1987 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,500 lb GCWR3 |
| 1988 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,500 lb GCWR3 |
| 1989 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,500 lb GCWR3 |
| 1990 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,500 lb GCWR3 |
| 1991 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 8,600 lb GVWR4 |
| 1992 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4x4 | 8,600 lb GVWR4 |
| 1993 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4x4 | 10,000 lbs1 |
| 1994 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 2WD or 4x4 | 8,600 lb GVWR4 |
| 1995 | 1 (Chevrolet C/K) | 5.7L V-8 | 4x4 | 10,000 lbs1 |
| 1996 | 1 | 6.5L Diesel | 2WD | 8,500 lbs1 |
| 1997 | 1 | 7.4L V-8 | 2WD | 11,000 lbs1 |
| 1998 | 1 | 7.4L V-8 | 2WD | 11,000 lbs1 |
| 1999 | 1 | 7.4L V-8 | 2WD | 11,000 lbs1 |
| 2000 | 1 | 6.5L Diesel (HD) | 2WD | 11,000 lbs1 |
| 2001 | 2 | 8.1L V-8 or 6.6L V-8 Diesel | 2WD | 15,900 lbs1 |
| 2002 | 2 | 8.1L V-8 or 6.6L V-8 Diesel | 2WD | 12,000 lbs1 |
| 2003 | 2 | 8.1L V-8 or 6.6L V-8 Diesel | 2WD | 16,100 lbs1 |
| 2004 | 2 | 8.1L V-8 or 6.6L V-8 Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 12,000 lbs1 |
| 2005 | 2 | 8.1L V-8 or 6.6L V-8 Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 12,000 lbs1 |
| 2006 | 2 | 8.1L V-8 or 6.6L V-8 Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 12,000 lbs1 |
| 2007 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD | 12,900 lbs1 |
| 2008 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD | 12,900 lbs1 |
| 2009 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2010 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2011 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2012 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2013 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2014 | 3 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2015 | 4 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 13,000 lbs1 |
| 2016 | 4 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD | 14,500 lbs1 |
| 2017 | 4 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD | 14,500 lbs1 |
| 2018 | 4 | 6.0L V-8 | 2WD or 4WD | 14,500 lbs1 |
| 2019 | 4 | 6.0L V-8 or 6.6L DuraMax V-8 Turbo Diesel | 4WD (Gas), 2WD (Diesel) | 14,500 lbs1 |
| 2020 | 5 | 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 18,500 lbs1 |
| 2021 | 5 | 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 18,500 lbs1 |
| 2022 | 5 | 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 18,500 lbs1 |
| 2023 | 5 | 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 18,500 lbs1 |
| 2024 | 5 | 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 20,000 lbs1 |
| 2025 | 5 | 6.6L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 2WD or 4WD | 20,000 lbs1 |
The GMC Sierra 2500 HD has a maximum base payload capacity of 3,850 pounds5 with the Regular Cab. However, trim features, other configurations, and add-ons may reduce this.
The GMC Sierra 2500 HD is designed to tow more with the diesel engine than its standard gas powertrain. The 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V-8, available for nearly every trim of the 2500 HD, can tow up to 20,000 pounds1 with a Crew Cab and the Max Trailering (NHT) package. The standard 6.6-liter V-8 is still capable, towing up to 16,000 pounds.1
The GMC ProGrade Trailering System, standard on the SLT, is a connectivity and sensor app designed to simplify hitching up. When activated, you can create a custom profile that detects the weight of your trailer and how long to tow, adjusting your maintenance schedule accordingly. It also comes with a pre-departure checklist, a trailer lighting sequence to help you connect carefully, and theft detection.
Yes, the Sierra 2500 HD has an integrated brake controller on all trim levels, ensuring that your electric-controlled trailer brake systems are correctly applied as you drive. Without this functionality, your pickup would need an external brake program. An integrated brake makes wiring and setup significantly easier so you can tow confidently. If you have questions, our representatives can help.
With a 20,000-pound tow rating with the 6.6-liter diesel engine when properly equipped, the GMC Sierra 2500 HD is more than capable of hauling most boats and livestock carriers. The 2500 HD can tow small and medium RVs, but larger motorhomes and most Class A RVs can be more than you can safely tow. Consider a 3500 HD for RVs above 20,000 pounds.
The most important towing accessory for heavy-duty models is the Max Trailering package. This upgrades your towing capacity to 20,000 pounds with the 6.6-liter diesel engine.1 However, you can also purchase a trailer wiring provision for campers, fifth-wheel, and gooseneck hitches for more equipment, or you can prepare for heavier trailers with the Gooseneck Trailer package.
Like most vehicles, the Sierra 2500 HD will not get as good MPG when towing larger trailers, and consistent hauling will require additional maintenance to enhance your driving experience. When handling trailers, be careful with shifting gears and getting stuck in stop-and-start traffic. In addition, adjusting your trailer to reduce tongue weight can relieve strain on your engine.
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.
2Class is gasoline and diesel heavy duty pickups in the GM Large Pickup segment. Based on latest competitive data available. Excludes other GM vehicles.
3GVWR ratings assume vehicles are properly equipped with manufacturer-recommended towing setups. Actual weight capacities may vary.
4GCWR ratings assume vehicles are properly equipped with manufacturer-recommended towing setups. Actual weight capacities may vary.
5These 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.