2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Features and Specs

If you’re considering a new truck, and towing capacity is important, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 should be on your shortlist. The latest model received a few upgrades from 2020, including an increase in max tow capacity on some configurations. The Sierra 1500 has the strength you’re looking for, plus a long list of premium features.

Image via GMC

Engine Configurations

Depending on which engine you choose, the maximum towing capacity for the Sierra 1500 will vary:

• 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6: Max of 7,900 pounds with regular 2WD cab and long bed.
• 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 with Active Fuel Management: Max of 9,900 pounds with regular 2WD cab and long bed.
• 2.7L Turbo: Max of 9,200 pounds with double 2WD cab and standard bed.
• 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management: Max of 11,300 pounds with double 2D cab, standard bed, and Max Trailering Package.
• 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management: Max of 11,800 pounds with crew 4WD cab, standard bed, and trailering package.
• Duramax 3.0 Turbo-Diesel: Max of 9,300 pounds with double 2WD cab and standard bed.

The towing capacity on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is up significantly in some trim levels from their 2020 counterparts. You’ll find 1,900 pounds more on the 2WD configurations of the 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel or 2,300 pounds more on the 2.7-liter turbo.

The Max Trailering Package offers many features for consumers looking to get the most towing capacity out of the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V-8 engines. This package includes:

• Handling/Trailering Suspension Package.
• Automatic locking rear differential.
• Heavy-duty rear springs and increased rear gross axle weight rating (RGAWR).
• Enhanced cooling radiator.
• Integrated trailer brake controller.
• 9.76-inch rear axle.
• 3.42 axle ratio.
• 220-amp alternator.
• Revised shock tuning.

Without the Max Trailering Package on a V-8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management, towing capacity will drop.

Trailering Made Easy

With many added and available features, hauling a trailer with your Sierra 1500 has never been easier. Here’s a look at some of the best features, including what’s new with the 2021 model.

Integrated Trailer Brake Controller

GMC’s integrated trailer brake controller offers fingertip control and monitoring of your trailer’s brakes. Use the in-vehicle Trailering App to program your brake level settings. This feature is standard on the SLT, AT4, and Denali. It’s an available option on the Sierra, SLE, and Elevation. Note that the in-vehicle app features vary with trim level and truck equipment. You may need a data connection, and some features require you to have an active service plan enabled.

Available Trailer Towing Mirrors

GMC Sierra’s special towing mirrors will help boost your confidence on the road. These mirrors have standard heated and available auto-dimming upper glass on both driver and passenger mirrors, optional power-fold or manual extend and retract, LED turn signal indicators, and lower convex mirrors.

Electric Parking Brake Assist

The electric parking brake assist works when Hitch View is on. As you back up toward the trailer, the brake will set automatically when you put the truck in park. This feature helps avoid roll and maintains hitch ball alignment.

Cargo Bed View Enhancements

This optional upgrade uses a camera that is in the center high-mounted stop lamp. This view lets you see inside the truck bed so you can check on your cargo while driving. A bed hitch guidance and a cargo bed zoom view are also new this year, which will help you hook up a gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailer.

Jack-Knife Alert

Jack-Knife Alert is a new feature for 2021 Sierra models. This feature can track a compatible trailer in relation to your truck. If the front of the trailer starts to approach the rear of your truck, you will receive an alert if there is the potential for a jack-knife situation.

Rear Trailer View Enhancements

GMC’s Rear Trailer View includes guidelines to help you when backing your trailer into place. This truck also has a trailer-angle indicator that shows the relationship between your trailer and vehicle. To enable the rear trailer view, you’ll need to install the available auxiliary accessory camera.

Rear Side View Enhancement

When you’re driving, you will see a split view of both sides of your truck and trailer. The view is automatically biased based on your trailer’s angle. This feature has been enhanced for 2021 GMC Sierra trucks. You can now access the view while in reverse, helping you avoid vehicles and other hazards while you are positioning your trailer.

Trailer Length Indicator

New for 2021, the Trailer Length Indicator can help when you’re trying to change lanes. When the Trailer Length Indicator is enabled and you are driving with your turn signal on, your console screen will show a red overlay twice the length of your compatible trailer. If there are cars present that could interfere with making a lane change, you will see them on the screen.

GMC Trailer Types

If you’re new to hauling a trailer, it’s important to understand the types of trailer you might be hauling. You can discuss your trailering needs with your sales rep at United Chevrolet Buick GMC to see what towing capacity you need on the 2021 Sierra 1500.

The three main types of trailers are:

• Conventional: Conventional trailers typically use a ball-type hitch and are usually recreational or boat trailers.
• Gooseneck: Gooseneck trailers have the weight of the hitch over the rear axle instead of the rear bumper.
• Fifth-wheel: These trailers are usually a little longer than conventional ones and have more configurations. A fifth-wheel trailer should be used with a fifth-wheel hitch.

Selecting the right hitch is crucial, as it will affect how your truck handles and brakes. You can learn more about towing capacity and hauling a trailer with your GMC Sierra 1500 by reading GMC’s comprehensive Trailering Guide.

Purchasing the Right GMC Sierra 1500 for Your Towing Needs

GMC knows trucks better than anyone, and they continue to win awards year after year. If you’re in the market for a truck with great towing capacity, let our knowledgeable sales team help. Contact us at United Chevrolet Buick GMC today to schedule a test drive. Let us help you get the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 that’s perfect for your towing needs.