2018 GMC Sierra 1500 vs. 2018 RAM 1500
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When it comes to pickup trucks, you need something that is both robust and resilient. The 2018 GMC Sierra vs. 2018 RAM 1500 are both light-duty trucks with plenty to offer, but knowing which is best can be tricky even for the most experienced of drivers. Looking at the facts will leave only one clear winner of this battle, and honestly, that will be the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 for most people.
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 is more affordable than the 2018 RAM 1500 with a starting price of almost $2,000 less. Also, the 2018 Sierra is bigger where it matters when compared to the 2018 RAM 1500. Personal taste will always come into play, but sometimes you just need to listen to what the facts are saying.
Towing
A large portion of those investing in a pickup truck are often looking for a vehicle that has a lot of towing potential. The GMC Sierra 1500 and RAM 1500 of 2018 are both strong competitors in light-duty towing capacity, but the Sierra 1500 pulls ahead when the facts are out on the table.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 when safely equipped is able to tow a massive 12,500 pounds, which is almost 2,000 pounds more than the 2018 RAM 1500. That being said, you can never be too safe when asked to handle heavy loads, and many things could easily go wrong without having the right equipment. In order to maximize your towing potential and safety, GMC offers an appealing list of features to get you going strong besides the transmissions hauling/towing mode. The optional trailering packages is for those who love to work hard and never feel burdened by the loads they must carry. The trailering package is mostly to allow you the ability to increase your towing ability and gross combined weight rating (GCWR), but it also offers a few more surprises. There is the automatic locking rear differential, enhanced cooling radiator, shock tuning, trailer brake controller, sway control, trailer camera system, and additional trailering equipment. This is only a glance into the full towing ability of the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500, but this should already display what a reliable towing machine it can be.
2018 RAM 1500
The 2018 RAM 1500 is classified as a light-duty truck which is for towing boats, ATV’s, and the smaller end trailers, but with a max towing ability of 10,650 pounds, you can create a strong enough truck to tow some of the larger trailers as well. The Big Horn, Lone Star, and Tradesmen are all just a few of the trims offered with the RAM 1500 that can get up to the towing power you require. Overall, it may not be the best, but the 2018 RAM 1500 will get the job done.
Performance
The performance of the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 and 2018 RAM 1500 are highly influenced by their engine options. Both of these light-duty pickups have three engines drivers can choose from. So in order to know which the better option for you is, it is best to first take a closer look at each engine.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 offers three engine options. No matter which of the engines you choose they will be made with aluminum blocked, active fuel management, directed fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT). One of the engines is a V6, which is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with a mode for towing and hauling. The other two engines are V8’s, which are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and also comes with a mode for towing.
The engine you will receive with the base trim for the 2018 Sierra 1500 is the 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 which offers 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. Upgrade just one level more, and you can get the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 which offers 355hp and 383 lb-ft of torque as your standard engine. Lastly, there is the 6.2L V8 engine with a max 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque which is only offered with the SLT and Denali trims.
2018 RAM 1500
The 2018 RAM 1500 just like the Sierra 1500 offers three engine options, but only one is a V8 while two are V6’s. That being said, one of these engines is a diesel option which is always pleasant to have.
The 3.6L V6 is the standard for the RAM 1500 as it comes with the base trim. It offers 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7L V8 is the standard engine for the LaRAMie Longhorn Crew and Limited Crew but is optional on all other trim levels. It offers 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque and is the better for towing heavy loads with 10,340 pounds of towing capacity. Lastly, 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 produces 240 hp and 420 lb-ft and is something different from what the Sierra offers.
Appearance
The appearance of the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 and 2018 RAM 1500 can both be described as bold and intimidating. This doesn’t mean they don’t both have their own unique appeal though.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2018 GMC Sierra takes boldness and elevates it to an art form. From a mile away you will be able to locate the GMC logo proudly displayed across the powerful chrome-wrapped grille. Additionally, if chrome is really your thing, upgrade to the Sierra Denali trim, and you will gain even more chrome features. This boldness does not take away from its elegance though. The Sierra was engineered and sculpted with a very clear vision of power and durability in mind, and it shows brilliantly.
Inside is also well decorated with a beautifully symmetrical control system and dashboard which aesthetically leaves you feeling at ease. Most pickup trucks often try to over-complicate their dash, but the Sierra takes a simpler approach, and it is appreciated.
2018 RAM 1500
The 2018 RAM 1500 is bulky and objectively a bit unappealing to look at depending on the trim level. No matter which trim you choose though, the front looks like it has a sort of overbite as everything below the simplistic grille sticks out. Upgrading to the LaRAMie trim or higher you can get chrome fixtures which helps sooth the sore thumb of the front, but it still isn’t perfect and costs a pretty penny.
Other than the front, there are some redeeming qualities to the appearance of the 2018 RAM 1500. One of these is the two-tone or low volume color options which will really bring it to life and make it your own. The Detonation Yellow and Hills Green are especially showy.
Overall, it is a big and bulky truck, and everything about its appearance screams powerful.
