2026 Ford F-150 XLT vs 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE
$4,905 less and 2 mpg better vs 30 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,905 price gap, 325 vs 310 hp, 20 vs 18 MPG.
The F-150 XLT leads on $4,905 less, 2 MPG better. The Sierra 1500 SLE leads on 30 more lb-ft torque. 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 | 2026 Ford F-150 XLT | 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $49,495 | $54,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.7L V6 Turbo | 2.7L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 325 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 23 | 19 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 18 |
| Fuel Tank | 36.0 gal | 24.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,895 lbs | 4,990 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 145.4" | 147.0" |
| Length | 232.0" | 231.9" |
| Width | 79.9" | 81.2" |
| Height | 77.1" | 75.5" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | SuperCab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | 6.5 ft | 5.8 ft |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT starts at $49,495, $4,905 less than the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE at $54,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $86/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT?
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,905 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $233/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE is the stronger pick when 30 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT or 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT rates 20 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT or 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT produces 325 hp, 15 more than the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE at 310 hp. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE also leads in torque at 430 lb-ft vs 400 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT runs a 2.7L V6 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE uses a 2.7L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT bigger than the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT is 0.1″ longer at 232.0″ vs 231.9″. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford F-150 trims, GMC trims, GMC Sierra 1500 trims
- 2026 Ford F-150 XLT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
F-150 vs Sierra 1500: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE compete directly in the full-size truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $4,905 gap adds up to $86/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT runs a 2.7L V6 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE uses a 2.7L I4 Turbo. The 15 hp difference (325 vs 310) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE also delivers 30 more lb-ft of torque (430 vs 400), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Both use 4WD.
Running Costs: F-150 vs Sierra 1500
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT saves roughly $233/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,165. The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT when you want to keep $4,905 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE when 30 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads. At $86/month more, the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Ford or GMC or any dealership.