2021 Sierra 1500 pulling a boat

How much can the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 tow?

2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Capacity, Payload, and Powertrain

Here at Palmen GM in Kenosha, WI, the GMC Sierra 1500 is a top-seller. A more upscale truck than its Chevy Silverado 1500 sibling, the Sierra 1500 blends comfort and luxury with raw power and performance. But don’t just take our word for it.

How much can the 2021 Sierra 1500 tow? How much can it haul in the box? Which engines are available? We’ll break it down for you.



dirt bikes in 2021 Sierra 1500 in bed

Towing Capacity

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is a very capable truck. The 2021 Sierra 1500 can tow up to 11,800 lbs when properly equipped with the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 and the Max Trailering Package. 2021 Sierra models able to reach max towing are configured with Crew Cab, 4WD, and a standard bed.

 Payload Capacity

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 has a max payload of 2,200 lbs in the bed. Models able to achieve this number are equipped with the 4.3L EcoTec3 V6, RWD, a Regular Cab, and a long bed.

Powertrain Options

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 comes with one of seven engines options:

  • 4.3L Gas V6 – 285 hp / 205 lb-ft
  • 2.7L Turbo – 310 hp / 348 lb-ft
  • 5.3L EcoTecV8 – 355 hp / 383 lb-ft
  • 5.3L EcoTecV8 DFM/AFM* – 355 hp / 383 lb-ft
  • 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel – 277 hp /460 lb-ft
  • 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 – 420 hp / 460 lb-ft
  • 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 DFM/AFM* – 420 hp / 460 lb-ft

*DFM/AFM – Dynamic Fuel Management or Active Fuel Management


2021 Sierra 1500: Gas vs Diesel


Save Money on a New GMC Truck

Whether you want the 2021 Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500HD, or Sierra 3500HD, you should stop by our Special Offers page first. There, you can ask about special discounts, financing specials, leasing deals, and the like. Also, if you’re going to trade-in your old vehicle, visit out Value Your Trade page to get a market-value quote for it.