2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road vs 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Tacoma TRD Off-Road starts at $40,310, $25,090 less. Tacoma TRD Off-Road leads with 21 MPG. Sierra 1500 Denali makes 420 hp (+142).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road | 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,310 Save $25,090 | $65,400 +$25,090 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo I4 | 6.2L V8 |
| Horsepower | 278 hp 142 hp less | 420 hp +142 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 +5 | 14 5 less |
| Hwy MPG | 24 +6 | 18 6 less |
| Combined MPG | 21 +6 | 15 6 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 32.7 cu ft | 71.7 cu ft |
| Screen | 14.0" | 13.4" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | No | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,710 lbs | 5,210 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 128.1" | 147.4" |
| Length | 212.3" | 230.0" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 22" Chrome |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | GMC Safety |
Tacoma TRD Off-Road or Sierra 1500 Denali?
Both are competitive. Tacoma TRD Off-Road has a lower entry price, Tacoma TRD Off-Road leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road or Sierra 1500 Denali?
Should I buy a 2026 Toyota Tacoma or GMC Sierra 1500?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota Tacoma or GMC Sierra 1500?
Is the Toyota Tacoma bigger than the GMC Sierra 1500?
What is the cost of insurance for the Tacoma TRD Off-Road vs Sierra 1500 Denali?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road?
Who Should Choose the Tacoma TRD Off-Road
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $40,310, it undercuts the Sierra 1500 Denali by $25,090.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 21 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: Tacoma SR vs Tacoma SR5, Tacoma SR vs Tacoma TRD Sport, Tacoma SR vs Tacoma TRD Off-Road.
Who Should Choose the Sierra 1500 Denali
The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the better fit for buyers who value what the GMC Sierra 1500 brings to the table. With 420 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
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 $25,090 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Sierra 1500 Denali carries a premium, 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 142 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, 142 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 142 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 Toyota 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.