2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Release Date

2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Release Date

As the upscale cousin of the Chevy Silverado, the GMC Sierra 1500 offers the same relentless work ethic with a higher level of comfort and convenience. The top-echelon Sierra Denali Ultimate, for example, delivers on its premium promise with standard equipment like 22-inch wheels and 16-way power-adjustable massaging front seats.

At the entry-level end of the lineup, the base Pro trim provides contractors with the essentials they need to get the job done Four powertrains are available, including a pair of V-8s, an inline-six-cylinder diesel, and a turbocharged four. Each powertrain is offered in a wide selection of cab, bed, and drivetrain configurations. The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 is expected to begin production around July and will arrive at our dealership not long after that.

What's new for 2026?

The GMC Sierra 1500 enters the 2026 model year with few changes. The previous White Frost Tricoat and Thunderstorm Gray exterior paint options are being replaced by Glacier White Tricoat and Coastal Dune colors. In addition, 2025 Sierra 1500 models equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8 will get a more aggressive exhaust note when that truck is in Sport mode.

Engines and performance options

The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 is available with four engines, two transmissions, and your choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. The base-level unit is a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder that's good for 310 horsepower plus 420 pound-feet of torque. It's teamed up with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Beyond that, there are two proven V-8 choices: a 5.3-liter with 355 horsepower and a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter upgrade.

A torque-heavy, light-duty diesel six-cylinder comes through with 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet, and all three engines are connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Sierra 1500 also can be equipped with adaptive dampers and wheels as large as 22 inches. The full-size GMC Sierra can tow up to 13,300 pounds and it can pack a payload of up to 2200 pounds when it's properly equipped.

Off-road performance options

The rugged AT4 comes with a 2.0-inch suspension lift and other authentic trail-ready equipment. The AT4X comes with several features that it shares with the Silverado ZR2, like advanced spool-valve dampers, electronic-locking front and rear differentials, additional skid plates, and beefy off-road tires that are mounted on 18-inch wheels. An AT4X AEV package delivers even more capable off-road accessories, like a steel front bumper equipped with a winch, AEV 18-inch wheels, and steel rock sliders.

Interior highlights

Inside, the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 comes with controls that are all easy to reach. As you would expect, the quality of the materials increases as you move up the trim ladder. Starting with the SLE, the Sierra 1500 comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard equipment. On upper trim levels you can get a head-up display as well as a power-adjustable steering column. The Denali Ultimate lives up to its name with premium features like open-pore wood trim and leather-covered surfaces. Front seats provide 16-way power adjustability and even massage functions.

Technology

The entry-level Pro model comes with a basic 7.0-inch screen while most 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 models provide a large 13.4-inch touchscreen. The truck's infotainment system with the bigger screen runs with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard features. The system also has built-in Google software that lets you access an app store and a voice assistant. Other available features in the 2026 Sierra 1500 will include a 12-speaker premium Bose audio system, wireless phone charging, and extra power points.

Contact us to find out more

We can provide you with updates on the expected arrival of the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 and if you'd rather not wait, we have an excellent selection of 2025 models available right now. Our dealership offers Lifetime Powertrain Protection on all eligible vehicles so we encourage you to visit us soon at Chevrolet GMC of Corsicana in Corsicana, TX.

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Disclaimer: The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price.

1Dealer Discount applied to everyone