2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn vs 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE
On paper, the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn wins on 2 MPG better, 110 more hp, 39 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 420 vs 310 hp, 20 vs 18 MPG.
The 1500 Big Horn leads on 2 MPG better, 110 more hp. The Sierra 1500 SLE leads on $1,720 less. 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 Ram 1500 Big Horn | 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $56,120 | $54,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L I6 Turbo | 2.7L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 469 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 19 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 18 |
| Fuel Tank | 33.0 gal | 24.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,373 lbs | 4,990 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 153.5" | 147.0" |
| Length | 241.8" | 231.9" |
| Width | 82.1" | 81.2" |
| Height | 77.5" | 75.5" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | 6.3 ft | 5.8 ft |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE starts at $54,400, $1,720 less than the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn at $56,120. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $30/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn?
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $233/year less on fuel; you need the extra 110 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; 39 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,720 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn or 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn rates 20 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn or 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn produces 420 hp, 110 more than the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE at 310 hp. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn also leads in torque at 469 lb-ft vs 430 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn runs a 3.0L I6 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE uses a 2.7L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn bigger than the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE?
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn is 9.9″ longer at 241.8″ vs 231.9″. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn has a 6.5″ 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: Ram trims, Ram 1500 trims, GMC trims, GMC Sierra 1500 trims
- 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the 1500 and Sierra 1500 Stack Up
Two full-size trucks built for work and weekend. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn ($56,120) and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE ($54,400) take different approaches to the same job. The $-1,720 gap is about $30/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: 1500 vs Sierra 1500
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn runs a 3.0L I6 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE uses a 2.7L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn has 110 more hp (420 vs 310). A gap that large affects towing confidence, highway merging, and how loaded the vehicle can feel before it struggles. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn also delivers 39 more lb-ft of torque (469 vs 430), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Both use 4WD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn saves roughly $233/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,165.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn has a 6.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn weighs 383 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 Ram 1500 Big Horn when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $233/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE when you want to keep $1,720 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 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 Ram or GMC or any dealership.