2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali vs 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor
105 more hp and 103 more lb-ft torque vs $28,555 less and 6 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 355 vs 250 hp, 17 vs 23 MPG.
The Sierra 1500 Denali leads on 105 more hp, 103 more lb-ft torque. The Maverick Tremor leads on $28,555 less, 6 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 | 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali | 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $69,200 | $40,645 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 5.3L V8 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 383 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 15 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 19 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 17 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 24.0 gal | 16.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,110 lbs | 3,731 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 147.0" | 121.1" |
| Length | 231.9" | 200.6" |
| Width | 81.2" | 72.6" |
| Height | 75.5" | 69.4" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | SuperCrew |
| Bed Length | 5.8 ft | No published data |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor?
The 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor starts at $40,645, $28,555 less than the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali at $69,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $503/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali?
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the stronger pick when you need the extra 105 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo; 103 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor?
The 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor is the stronger pick when you want to keep $28,555 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $645/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali or 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor?
The 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor rates 23 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali or 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor?
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali produces 355 hp, 105 more than the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor at 250 hp. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali also leads in torque at 383 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali runs a 5.3L V8; the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, AWD on the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor.
Is the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali bigger than the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor?
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is 31.3″ longer at 231.9″ vs 200.6″. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali has a 25.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor 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, Ford trims, Ford Maverick trims
How the Sierra 1500 and Maverick Stack Up
Two full-size trucks built for work and weekend. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali ($69,200) and 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor ($40,645) take different approaches to the same job. The $-28,555 gap adds up to $503/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 Maverick
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali runs a 5.3L V8; the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali has 105 more hp (355 vs 250). A gap that large affects towing confidence, highway merging, and how loaded the vehicle can feel before it struggles. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali also delivers 103 more lb-ft of torque (383 vs 280), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, AWD on the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor saves roughly $645/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $3,225.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is 31.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali has a 25.9″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali weighs 1,379 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 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali when you need the extra 105 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging. Choose the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor when you want to keep $28,555 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick Tremor 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 Ford or any dealership.