2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD Review
Price Estimate: $15,692 - $19,164





+121
GMC Sierra 2500HD model years
GMC Sierra 2500HD types
- Regular Cab
- Crew Cab
- Double Cab
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Impressive hauling and towing capabilities
- refined and quiet ride
- strong diesel engine
- available CNG fueling for regular V8
- solid build quality.
Cons
- Limited availability of telescoping steering wheel.
What’s new
For 2016, the GMC Sierra 2500HD gets standard xenon headlights and LED running lights, while new options include wireless phone charging, a remote locking tailgate, a gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package and a 7-inch IntelliLink touchscreen interface. Both the new 7-inch interface and the premium 8-inch version get a faster processor and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Additionally, an upgraded Digital Steering Assist system debuts on higher-end models.
Edmunds says
With its considerable capabilities and comfortable nature, the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD is an excellent choice for a heavy-duty truck.
For sale near Minot, ND
305 listings
- $26,000good price$3,656 below market
- 80,586 miles
- No accidents, 5 owners, personal use only
- 6'7” bed, 6l, 8cyl
- Ryan Chevrolet of Minot (1 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Upgraded Headlights
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Trip Computer
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Located in Minot, ND
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GT12REG4GF210732
Stock: 2767405A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-11-2025 - $28,000
- 180,889 miles
- Insurance loss reported, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- Eide Ford Lincoln (102 mi away)
- Nav
- Moonroof/Sunroof***T...
- Park Assist
- 2016 GMC Sierra 2500...
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Located in Bismarck, ND
2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD 4D Crew Cab SLT Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbodiesel 4WD ***Body Discount SOLD AS IS***Leather Seats***Power Moonroof/Sunroof***Trailer ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GT12TE87GF207149
Stock: 522503
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-08-2025
Vehicle overview
All pickups are designed to work hard and play hard, but some tasks require more muscle than others. If nothing less than the strongest, toughest truck will do, you'll want a heavy-duty model like the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD. The big Sierra offers a standard 360-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 engine or an optional 397-hp 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8, and GMC says it can tow up to 18,000 pounds and haul up to 3,534 pounds when properly equipped. Those numbers are slightly different this year, as they're now based on the SAE J2807 trailering standard, but one thing's for certain: That's a whole lot of capability by just about anyone's standards.
Beyond the brawn, the Sierra 2500 HD has plenty to recommend it. Building on the improvements of last year's redesign, the 2016 model gets meaningful upgrades like standard xenon headlights and LED accent lights, an available remote locking tailgate and enhanced infotainment systems with faster processors and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The surprisingly pleasant driving experience carries over, including a relatively smooth and hushed ride that's augmented by an upgraded steering system on fancier models for 2016. Add a choice of three body styles, two bed lengths and a wide range of trim levels and the Sierra 2500HD can be everything from a basic work truck to a classy high-end hauler.
It's worth noting that the GMC Sierra 2500HD is virtually identical to the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, with the exception of minor styling details and a few exclusive standard features and options. You'll also want to check out the rival Ford F-250 Super Duty and Ram 2500, which offer similar strengths and amenities. Ultimately, though, it's hard to go wrong with the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD if you need a truck that can handle pretty much anything.
Performance & mpg
The 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD is offered with a choice of two different engines. A 6.0-liter V8 engine that produces 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque is standard, as is a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can opt for a bi-fuel version of this engine, allowing the truck to run on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG). When operating on CNG, power output drops to 301 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 6.6-liter diesel V8 that puts out 397 hp and 765 lb-ft of torque, paired to a different six-speed automatic, is available as an option.
Rear-wheel drive is standard for all models, with four-wheel drive optional.
Properly equipped, a 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD can haul up to 3,534 pounds of payload. It can tow up to 14,500 pounds with a standard ball hitch and 18,000 pounds with a fifth-wheel/gooseneck hitch.
At the Edmunds test track, a diesel-powered Sierra 2500HD 4x4 Crew Cab hit 60 mph in just 7.0 seconds. That's impressively quick for any heavy-duty pickup, let alone one with a crew cab and four-wheel drive.
Safety
Standard safety features on the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control (with trailer sway control), front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Standard on all except the base trim is OnStar (includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, remote door unlocking, stolen-vehicle assistance and turn-by-turn navigation). Upper trims also include power-adjustable pedals, a rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors.
Optional safety equipment includes the Driver Alert package which bundles the parking sensors with lane-departure warning, forward-collision alert and a safety alert seat.
In Edmunds brake testing, the abovementioned diesel-powered Sierra 2500HD 4x4 Crew Cab needed 144 feet to stop from 60 mph. That's on the long side for this segment, even given the test truck's formidable curb weight.
In government crash tests, the Sierra 2500HD crew cab models received four out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars for total frontal protection and five stars for total side-impact protection. The other body styles had only received side-impact ratings (five stars) as of this writing.
Driving
The 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD offers a surprisingly comfortable ride quality for a heavy-duty pickup. Measured against its Sierra 1500 sibling, there's more wind and tire noise, but the cabin still manages to remain pretty quiet overall. Handling is decent, with body roll reasonably well controlled in turns and a light, precise steering feel. The SLE (except regular cabs), SLT and Denali trims also get an upgraded steering system called Digital Steering Assist. That said, as with all big pickups, maneuverability is often a challenge, especially in tight spaces.
When there's a big payload to haul or a sizable trailer to move, of course, the Sierra 2500HD shoulders the load without breaking a sweat, especially when fitted with the optional torque-monster turbodiesel engine. The diesel engine's exhaust brake is a welcome feature when descending long grades fully loaded, particularly since it works in conjunction with the transmission's automatic downshifts. The cruise control system is tied into this loop, helping to better hold your set speed on steep hills.
Interior
Inside the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD you'll find an interior that ranges from work-truck basic on the entry-level model to downright posh on the top-of-the-line Denali. In general, though, materials quality is satisfying, and the design is both attractive and functional. Gauges are easy to see, and important everyday controls like climate and audio knobs are well-placed and dead simple to use. Upper trim levels even feature nice details like accent stitching atop the dash.
The available 4.2-inch and 8-inch information displays located between the tach and speedo are easy to read and reconfigure. The GMC IntelliLink touchscreen displays, meanwhile, offer sharp graphics and intuitive operation, along with handy Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to bring your smartphone fully into the driving experience.
In terms of seating, the various front seat options offer good comfort and support. The only quibble here is that the base and SLE models' lack of a telescoping steering wheel may make it difficult for some folks to find a comfortable driving position (note that the telescoping wheel is optional on SLE). Rear seats on crew-cab models avoid a common pickup pitfall with seatbacks and bottom cushions that don't force occupants into an uncomfortable bolt upright position.
2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD models
The 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD is offered in regular cab, double cab and crew cab body styles with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive. The regular cab is available only with a long bed (8 feet), while the extended cab and crew cab models can be mated to either a standard bed (6.5 feet) or a long bed. Unlike its 3500HD big brother, the Sierra 2500HD is not available with a dual-rear-wheel (DRW, or "dually") axle.
Trim levels start at the base Sierra and climb to the SLE, SLT and range-topping Denali. The SLT trim is available only on the double and crew cabs, while the Denali is available only as a crew cab.
The entry-level Sierra comes standard with chrome bumpers, 17-inch steel wheels, an automatic locking rear differential, xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, air-conditioning, a choice of cloth or vinyl upholstery, a 40/20/40-split front bench with a fold-down center armrest, rubber floor covering, power door locks, manual crank windows, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, a 4.2-inch central display and a four-speaker (regular cab) or six-speaker sound system with a USB port and an auxiliary audio input jack.
Optional on the base Sierra 2500HD is a 7-inch IntelliLink touchscreen infotainment system that includes OnStar, 4G LTE WiFi, Bluetooth, voice controls, satellite radio, Pandora Internet radio and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Stepping up to the SLE adds those optional infotainment features as standard along with an upgraded 8-inch central touchscreen, 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, a remote locking EZ lift/lower tailgate, LED cargo box illumination, a rearview camera, remote keyless entry, carpeting, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, full power accessories, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 4.2-inch driver information display, HD radio and a CD player.
The SLT trim level adds 18-inch chrome alloy wheels, additional chrome trim, foglights, power-folding mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated eight-way power front seats (with power lumbar), driver memory settings, power-adjustable pedals, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote ignition and a 110-volt household-style power outlet.
On top of the SLT features, the Denali will get you more chrome exterior accents, 20-inch wheels, chrome side steps, a spray-in bedliner, a power-sliding rear window with defogger, front and rear parking sensors, a navigation system, wireless phone charging, a Bose audio system, a configurable 8-inch driver information display, upgraded interior trim, ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
Some of the upper trims' extra standard features can be added to the lower trim levels as options. Other option highlights, depending on trim level, include different axle ratios, a bed storage box, various tonneau covers, trailering mirrors, a sunroof, a Driver Alert package (includes front and rear parking sensors, lane-departure warning, forward-collision alert and a safety alert driver seat), a gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package and a rear-seat entertainment system. Also available is the Z71 Off-Road package, which includes 18-inch wheels, hill descent control, skid plates, specially tuned shock absorbers, a different front stabilizer bar and unique styling tweaks.

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Compare 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
Not EPA tested for Sierra 2500HD Base
Sierra 2500HD Base
vs
$212/mo
Avg. Large Truck
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#10 out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$840/yr
vs. $752/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
Frequency
0.67x/yr
vs. 0.98x/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
Severity
22.3%
vs. 19.9%
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
powered by RepairPal
GMC Sierra 2500HD Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Great Diesel Truck
4 out of 5 starsTom, 12/23/2015
2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD SLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
Bought this SLT model after trading in a 13 2500 HD Denali. Needed to pull a 16000 lb Fiver camper. This Pickup has extreme power and smooth shifting. Thought about getting a single rear tire toner till I realized the only difference was an extra leaf spring is all. I had automatic step sides that come down when you open the door and that made access in and out easy even the wife … enjoys it. I have 13000 on it now. I guess I don't see any issue with the headlights seem the same although I did notice at the parts counter upgraded bulbs on the counter so maybe that fixed the issue. I especially like the bright lights in the side mirrors for backing up at night. No problems with the leather or accessories, I did get extended warranty just in case. mileage varies about 8 mph pulling the camper and 17 mpg on the highway not pulling town about 15. Seems like a great pickup more to come.
Duramax
5 out of 5 starsA. Simms, 09/25/2018
2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
This is a 6.6 Duramax crew. There was not an option when writing a review.
I bought this truck used with 44k miles on it in February 2018 from a private party. This is the nicest vehicle I have ever owned.
I have no issues with the headlights so they either were replaced or people are over reacting.
This is my daily driver and I average 17mpg. 9 miles to work and mostly in town … driving.
I love towing with this truck!!! We have a 25’ Travel trailer and it’s like it’s not even back there. I love the exhaust brake and tow button.
I am trying to think of something I don’t like about it but it’s hard. The interior is awesome and the seats are comfy. We have taken a handful of road trips already and can’t wait to take more.
It has every option except the heated steering wheel. I even have the remote start which is awesome!!
I added oversized tires and wrapped the grille and mirrors. I also put a spray liner on both front and back bumper. The rest is stock. This is a beautiful truck inside and out. I get tons of compliments.
I will be keeping this for many years.
Duramax!
5 out of 5 starsJD, 10/08/2015
2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
There is no drop-down option for the Duramax Diesel version. Traded in a 2014 Denali 1500 for the big boy. I love this truck. No car/truck is perfect but the Duramax is the best Diesel engine on the road IMO. Sometimes the radio is quirky when plugging in my iphone so I just stream over bluetooth. I've noticed that the power steering takes more arm strength when maneuvering tight spots, … more-so than other truck brands. The headlights are a less than great and should be recalled. I am hoping the new headlights that come on the 2016s will be interchangeable.
I love my truck. It turns a lot of heads.. especially mine!
Life long GM fan is loosing faith.
2 out of 5 starsJoe Davis, 05/17/2017
2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD SLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
Some painted bumpers do not hold up. Eight months old and my bumper has no less than twenty chips. Some as big as a quarter. The dealer did not want to stand behind it and said don't bring it back here... Wow.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sierra 2500HD since its last redesign.
2016 Sierra 2500HD Highlights
Regular Cab
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $33,535 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Seating | 3 seats |
rear wheel drive | |
Max Towing Capacity | 13,000 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Sierra 2500HD include:
- Back-up camera
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5PassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover20.4%
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