2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali vs 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition
75 more hp and 121 more lb-ft torque vs $21,305 less and 4 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 355 vs 280 hp, 17 vs 21 MPG.
The Sierra 1500 Denali leads on 75 more hp, 121 more lb-ft torque. The Ridgeline Black Edition leads on $21,305 less, 4 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali | 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $68,700 | $47,395 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 5.3L V8 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 383 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 15 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 19 | 24 |
| Combined MPG | 17 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 24.0 gal | 19.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,110 lbs | 4,504 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 147.0" | 125.2" |
| Length | 231.9" | 210.2" |
| Width | 81.2" | 78.6" |
| Height | 75.5" | 70.8" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | 5.8 ft | No published data |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition?
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition starts at $47,395, $21,305 less than the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali at $68,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $375/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali?
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the stronger pick when you need the extra 75 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo; 121 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition?
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition is the stronger pick when you want to keep $21,305 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $471/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali or 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition?
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition rates 21 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali or 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition?
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali produces 355 hp, 75 more than the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition at 280 hp. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali also leads in torque at 383 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali runs a 5.3L V8; the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition.
Is the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali bigger than the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition?
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is 21.7″ longer at 231.9″ vs 210.2″. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali has a 21.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition uses AWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: GMC trims, GMC Sierra 1500 trims, Honda trims, Honda Ridgeline trims
How the Sierra 1500 and Ridgeline Stack Up
Two full-size trucks built for work and weekend. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali ($68,700) and 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition ($47,395) take different approaches to the same job. The $-21,305 gap adds up to $375/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Sierra 1500 vs Ridgeline
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali runs a 5.3L V8; the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition uses a 3.5L V6. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali has 75 more hp (355 vs 280). A gap that large affects towing confidence, highway merging, and how loaded the vehicle can feel before it struggles. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali also delivers 121 more lb-ft of torque (383 vs 262), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition saves roughly $471/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,355.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is 21.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali has a 21.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali weighs 606 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali when you need the extra 75 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging. Choose the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition when you want to keep $21,305 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with GMC or Honda or any dealership.