2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 & 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Engine Options

2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs GMC Sierra 1500 Engine Options

Comparing the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Engine Options

At Steve Schmitt Inc., we offer the latest and greatest in full-size trucks-most notably the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and 2026 GMC Sierra 1500. Both models share the same robust engine lineup, offering four distinct powertrains to suit a wide range of driving needs.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2026 Silverado 1500 continues to offer a versatile engine lineup: the base 2.7-liter TurboMax, two powerful V-8 options, and the refined 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel. The TurboMax engine remains an impressive entry point, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. For those who value efficiency and torque, the Duramax diesel provides smooth, quiet performance with 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque.

For maximum capability, the Silverado's V-8 engines deliver exceptional strength. The 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 offers 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

When properly equipped, the Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds with the 6.2-liter V8. The 5.3-liter V8 handles up to 11,600 pounds, and the TurboMax engine can tow up to 9,500 pounds. Payload capacity ranges from 1,870 to 2,280 pounds, making this truck a true workhorse for any job.

Fuel economy varies by engine. The Duramax diesel leads with an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined and up to 26 MPG highway. The TurboMax achieves around 19/22 MPG, while the V-8s are thirstier: the 5.3-liter V8 is rated at 16/21 MPG, and the 6.2-liter V8 at 15/20 MPG.

GMC Sierra 1500

The 2026 Sierra 1500 offers the same impressive engine lineup as the Silverado, including:

• 2.7-liter TurboMax I-4: 310 hp / 430 lb-ft, paired with an 8-speed automatic. Tows up to 9,500 lbs and is standard on Pro, SLE, and Elevation trims.
• 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8: 355 hp / 383 lb-ft, with a 10-speed automatic, towing up to 11,600 lbs; available on SLT, Denali, and other trims.
• 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8: 420 hp / 460 lb-ft, 10-speed automatic, capable of towing around 13,300 lbs; available on Denali Ultimate, AT4X, and higher trims.
• 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel I-6: 305 hp / 495 lb-ft, 10-speed automatic; best available towing up to 13,300 lbs, with excellent torque and efficiency.

Fuel economy for Sierra mirrors Silverado's ratings:

• TurboMax I-4: ~19 city / 22 highway MPG
• 5.3L V8: ~16/21 MPG
• 6.2L V8: ~15/20 MPG
• Duramax Diesel: ~23 MPG combined, up to ~27 MPG highway

When properly equipped, the Sierra 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds and offers a payload capacity of around 2,240 pounds, making it a versatile and capable choice for any job.