2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab

Classy and capable, the GMC Sierra 1500 is one of today's top full-size pickups. The interior is huge, the bed is huge and, with a maximum towing capacity of 13,200 pounds, the Sierra's capabilities are impressive. Among the Sierra's strengths is a varied engine lineup, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a six-cylinder diesel and two V8s. That list may grow as GMC reportedly readies a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the Sierra, but we don't expect the fuel-sipper to debut this year. For now, it appears the Sierra will carry over into 2026 with few changes. 

Edmunds spotlight: Electric power to fill the gap

A plug-in hybrid would be a welcome addition to the Sierra fleet. While fully electric pickups generate tons of torque and can help save on fuel costs, their drawbacks — including a higher sticker price, significantly decreased range while towing, and the difficulty of charging while towing — limit their appeal to traditional truck buyers. A PHEV powertrain could introduce a middle ground between pure EV and pure gas and solve most of the issues by adding an engine that acts like a generator when the electrons run out. A plug-in Sierra will also likely allow you to power tools, lights, speakers and other electric accessories from its battery when it's time to work or recreate.

Competitors to consider

The current Sierra will continue to mix it up with longtime rivals such as the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and GMC's corporate counterpart, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Things should heat up with the Ram 1500 Ramcharger plug-in hybrid, though; it's slated to arrive before any potential answer from GMC. The F-150, Tundra and smaller Toyota Tacoma already have traditional hybrids in their lineup, making a burgeoning subcategory to bridge the gap between old-school muscle and a vibrant electric future.

The 2026 Sierra 1500 will continue the current-generation's momentum as a new plug-in electric future comes online in the near future.