2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali vs 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
F-150 Lariat starts at $53,970, $11,430 less. F-150 Lariat leads with 21 MPG. Sierra 1500 Denali makes 420 hp (+95).
| Spec | 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali | 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $65,400 +$11,430 | $53,970 Save $11,430 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 6.2L V8 | 2.7L Turbo V6 |
| Horsepower | 420 hp +95 hp | 325 hp 95 hp less |
| Torque | 460 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 14 5 less | 19 +5 |
| Hwy MPG | 18 6 less | 24 +6 |
| Combined MPG | 15 6 less | 21 +6 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 71.7 cu ft | 52.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 13.4" | 12.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Panoramic | Avail. |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,210 lbs | 4,640 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 147.4" | 145.4" |
| Length | 230.0" | 231.7" |
| Wheels | 22" Chrome | 18" Chrome |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | GMC Safety | Co-Pilot360 |
Sierra 1500 Denali or F-150 Lariat?
Both are competitive. F-150 Lariat has a lower entry price, F-150 Lariat leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Sierra 1500 Denali or F-150 Lariat?
Should I buy a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 or Ford F-150?
Which is more reliable, the GMC Sierra 1500 or Ford F-150?
Is the GMC Sierra 1500 bigger than the Ford F-150?
What is the cost of insurance for the Sierra 1500 Denali vs F-150 Lariat?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali?
Who Should Choose the Sierra 1500 Denali
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali appeals to buyers who prioritize what GMC does best: capability and proven toughness. At $65,400, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
GMC ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Sierra 1500 Pro vs Sierra 1500 SLE, Sierra 1500 Pro vs Sierra 1500 AT4, Sierra 1500 Pro vs Sierra 1500 Denali.
Who Should Choose the F-150 Lariat
The 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 21 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Ford's approach to this truck emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the F-150 Lariat deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $11,430 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Sierra 1500 Denali is positioned higher, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Sierra 1500 Denali makes 95 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, 95 more horsepower also contribute. Both are competitive within the truck market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 95 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these trucks will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Trucks Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe trucks with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between GMC and Ford often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.