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Full-size pickups are a common sight on American roads. With their strong style, powerful engines, and burly capability, large trucks look good at getting the job done. And the top-of-the-line 2023 Toyota Tundra Limited and 2023 GMC Sierra SLE offer that and more, with enhanced luxury, tech, and performance.

But which is the better pick?

Let’s see what the Tundra Limited and Sierra SLE have to offer.

The 2023 Toyota Tundra Limited offers power and comfort

The 2023 Toyota Tundra Limited starts at $50,565 and offers an ideal mix of tech, capability, and comfort.

The Tundra Limited has muscular bodywork and a powerful stance when cruising. The front grille is reminiscent of a big rig, and the LED headlights add a high-tech feel.

Unlike its American competitors, the 2023 Toyota Tundra opts for a turbo V6 or hybrid powertrain, combining power and efficiency. The i-FORCE turbo V6 produces 389 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. And the i-FORCE MAX hybrid version adds an electric motor for a stout 437 hp and 589 lb-ft of torque. A smooth 10-speed automatic handles shifting duties.

A coil spring rear suspension enhances ride quality for new levels of long-distance comfort. While traditional leaf spring designs bounce over imperfections, the Tundra smoothly absorbs potholes and speed bumps alike.

Here’s just some of what the Tundra Limited’s interior has to offer:

• Soft-touch instrument panel, center console, and door surfaces

• Softex-trimmed seats with 8-way power adjustable driver and front passenger seats

• Dual-zone automatic climate control

• 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

• Leather-trimmed steering wheel with phone, audio, display/infotainment, and driver assist controls

And for traction no matter the terrain, the Tundra Limited’s standard 4WD has a two-speed transfer case with hi/lo range and an automatic limited slip differential.

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE – classic American capability

Before Toyota entered the game, domestic brands were the only choice for a full-size pickup. And with their classic American style and brawny construction, GMC trucks remain among the best. The GMC Sierra 1500 SLE continues the brand’s history of function-first designs and adds amenities for increased day-to-day comfort.

Style-wise, the GMC Sierra 1500 SLE has an understated, strong appearance. The large grille with the red GMC logo has a purposeful look, and the blocky bodywork looks ready for work.

Starting at $52,095, the 1500 SLE offers an array of powertrains.

Here’s what buyers can choose from:

• Turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque

• 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque

• 3.0-liter Duramax diesel with 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque

Whether someone wants high-tech efficiency, old-school horsepower, or maximum towing ability, the Sierra has an engine for any task.

While Edmunds praised the GMC Sierra’s all-around performance, they found its rear leaf spring suspension lacked ride quality. Overall, the American pickup felt bulky in turns and exhibited excessive body roll.

Inside, the Sierra SLE follows the modern formula for well-appointed pickups.

The SLE’s interior features include the following:

• GMC Premium Infotainment with 13.4-inch touchscreen, Wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto

• A six-speaker audio system

• Cloth seats with a 10-way power driver’s seat and four-way manually adjustable passenger seat

• Heated steering wheel

• Wireless phone projection

The GMC Sierra SLE comes in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. When equipped with 4WD, the SLE includes an Eaton automatic locking rear differential and a single-speed Autotrac transfer case.

Comparing the Toyota Tundra Limited vs. GMC Sierra 1500 SLE: which is better?

Gray 2023 Toyota Tundra on display against a white background
2023 Toyota Tundra | Toyota

The 2023 Toyota Tundra Limited and 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE both offer excellent engineering, modern powertrains, and brawny looks, and each has its strong points.

The Tundra Limited offers excellent value with its high-tech turbo and hybrid powertrains, posh interior, and adventure-ready looks. The Tundra is a sweet pick for buyers looking for something different—a pickup with a look toward the future rather than trading on the past.

But for fans of more traditional American designs, the Sierra SLE offers workhorse functionality. Though the stock turbo four-cylinder is plenty capable, there’s just something about a pickup with a V8 engine. Or, for towing capability beyond almost anything, a Duramax diesel offers exemplary pulling power. For undecided buyers, the GMC offers more options.

If the Toyota Tundra Limited is a highly-trained athlete, the GMC Sierra SLE is a blue-collar employee with a strong work ethic. Which one you buy depends on what you like—both are versatile pickups.

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