Chevy vs. GMC: Which Pickup Truck Is Right for You?
If you are familiar with General Motors, you likely know that GM has two brands that produce pickup trucks. Both Chevy and GMC build a variety of pickups, and in the past, they were relatively similar offerings. But, as the brands differentiate themselves, is a Chevy or GMC truck right for you?
Are Chevy and GMC the same?
Although both in the GM portfolio, Chevy and GMC are two distinct brands. Starting in 2018, the difference between these manufacturers became clear. GMC seems to focus on being a luxury truck builder, while Chevy is positioned to handle traditional pickup truck buyers.
This is not to say that GMC does not offer basic trucks and Chevy does not have premium options. But, according to MotorTrend, most GMC truck sales come from its high-end Denali trim. Chevy does not sell as many trucks outfitted with its High Country package.
Should you buy a Chevy or GMC?
Depending on your preference, either a Chevy or GMC truck could be the right pick. Chevy offers trucks like the 2023 Chevy Colorado, 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500, and its heavy-duty pickups. Meanwhile, GMC has the 2023 Canyon, 2023 GMC Sierra 1500, and also some heavy-duty trucks. Generally speaking, these trucks do share the same platform.
GM has done an impressive job marketing its products to specific demographics. If you are interested in luxury and premium features, it is likely that you will be shopping the GMC brand. But, if you are in need of a basic work truck, you can’t go wrong with a new Chevy.
In terms of full-size trucks, the Silverado does sell more units than the Sierra. But the Sierra is more likely to command a higher price tag. Which is reflective of the type of person who wants to purchase a GMC truck.
Does GM build good pickups?
GM is sort of a mixed bag in terms of reliability, and that includes its trucks. General Motors is not known for being refined unless you opt for a higher trim. And to add to that, brands like Ford and Ram have spent a lot of time invested in the pickup truck market.
It does seem like plenty of folks are willing to buy Chevy and GMC trucks. So, maybe those reliability issues could be overblown. But if you know truck owners, you know that they are highly loyal to their specific brand.
Do GM trucks outsell Ford?
According to GM Authority, full-size GM trucks have been able to outsell both Ford and Ram trucks. The Chevy Silverado is certainly an iconic pickup. But it might be a bit of a surprise to learn that for Q2 2022, it managed to outsell the Ford F-150.
At the same time, sales of General Motors trucks have fallen from where they were in the past. And the Chevy Silverado continues to be a hotter truck than the GMC Sierra.
When it comes to how you spend your money, the best way to determine which truck is right for you is to experience them first-hand. That is if you can find new models. The auto industry is still being hit by supply chain constraints, much like the rest of the world.
