2026 Ram 1500 Limited vs 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Sierra 1500 Denali starts at $65,400, $2,100 less. 1500 Limited leads with 18 MPG. 1500 Limited makes 540 hp (+120).
| Spec | 2026 Ram 1500 Limited | 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $67,500 +$2,100 | $65,400 Save $2,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L TT I6 | 6.2L V8 |
| Horsepower | 540 hp +120 hp | 420 hp 120 hp less |
| Torque | 521 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 16 +2 | 14 2 less |
| Hwy MPG | 22 +4 | 18 4 less |
| Combined MPG | 18 +3 | 15 3 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 53.9 cu ft | 71.7 cu ft |
| Screen | 14.5" | 13.4" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,380 lbs | 5,210 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 144.6" | 147.4" |
| Length | 228.9" | 230.0" |
| Wheels | 22" Chrome | 22" Chrome |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Safety Group | GMC Safety |
1500 Limited or Sierra 1500 Denali?
Both are competitive. Sierra 1500 Denali has a lower entry price, 1500 Limited leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ram 1500 Limited and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali?
Which gets better gas mileage, the 1500 Limited or Sierra 1500 Denali?
Should I buy a 2026 Ram 1500 or GMC Sierra 1500?
Which is more reliable, the Ram 1500 or GMC Sierra 1500?
Is the Ram 1500 bigger than the GMC Sierra 1500?
What is the cost of insurance for the 1500 Limited vs Sierra 1500 Denali?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Ram 1500 Limited?
Who Should Choose the 1500 Limited
The 2026 Ram 1500 Limited appeals to buyers who prioritize what Ram does best: capability and proven toughness. At $67,500, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 18 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Ram ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Big Horn, 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Laramie, 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Limited.
Who Should Choose the Sierra 1500 Denali
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
GMC's approach to this truck emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Sierra 1500 Denali deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,100 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The 1500 Limited is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the 1500 Limited makes 120 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 120 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 120 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 Ram and GMC 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.