2021 GMC Sierra Towing Capacities Compared By Engine
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The 2021 GMC Sierra has received slightly higher maximum towing capacity ratings over the 2020 model that it replaces – but only when equipped with certain powertrains. Let’s take a look at the truck’s revised towing capacity figures and see how they stack up based on engine type.
When equipped with the optional GM 2.7L L3B four-cylinder engine and two-wheel drive, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of 9,100 pounds – an increase of 2,200 pounds over an identically equipped 2020 GMC Sierra 1500.
| RPO Code | Engine | 2020 Sierra (lbs. / kg) | 2021 Sierra (lbs. / kg) | Difference (2021 vs 2020) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LV3 | 4.3L V6 | 7,900 / 3,583 | 7,900 / 3,583 | 0 |
| L3B | 2.7L I4 Turbo | 6,900 / 3,130 | 9,100 / 4,127 | +2,200 / +997 |
| L82 | 5.3L V8 AFM | 10,000 / 4,536 | 9,900 / 4,491 | -100 / -45 |
| L84 | 5.3L V8 DFM | 11,300 / 5,125 | 11,200 / 5,080 | -100 / -45 |
| LM2 | 3.0L I6 Turbo-Diesel | 9,100 / 4,128 | 9,200 / 4,173 | +100 / +45 |
| L87 | 6.2L V8 DFM | 12,100 / 5,488 | 11,800 / 5,352 | -300 / -136 |
The GMC Sierra 1500 with the available Duramax turbodiesel 3.0L LM2 inline-six engine gets a slightly increased maximum towing capacity as well. Properly equipped trucks with the diesel engine will boast a maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds – up 100 pounds from last year.
The rest of the available engines for the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 have seen their maximum tow capacity ratings drop. The max rating for models with the 5.3L L82 V8 and 5.3L L84 V8 engines fell by 100 pounds year-over-year, while the max rating for trucks with the 6.2L L87 V8 fell by 300 pounds.
As GM Authority pointed out in a previous article, the maximum tow ratings for the 2021 Chevy Silverado with the 2.7L I4 gasoline engine and 3.0L I6 diesel engine also increased from the 2020 model year. Properly equipped trucks with the 2.7L engine saw the max tow rating increase by 2,600 pounds, while the rating for 3.0L diesel models increased by 200 pounds.
The automaker said it was able to unlock more towing capacity for its 2.7L I4 powered trucks after additional testing, and validation revealed that it “possesses better-than-expected cooling performance.” Trucks with the 3.0L diesel engine, meanwhile, saw a small increase due to better-than-expected rear axle durability.
The GMC Sierra will make towing even easier from 2022 onward, when GM plans to introduce its Super Cruise hands-free driving system to the truck, complete with semi-autonomous trailer towing capability.
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Lol that chart is garbage. The amount of questionable content around here makes me wonder if it’s done to spark commenter engagement.
And no changes were actually made, so your 2020 2.7 turbo now knows it can tow 9,000+lbs. also, all these numbers are relative anyways. Isn’t the SAE J2805 test the Davis damn, no overheat, highway all the way up and breaking in 60-0 in 800ft or less with no wear or tear on the vehicle? That’s 12000lbs easy Oklahoma back roads and 6000lbs up a rocky off road mountain. I’d like to see someone up strain gauges in the vehicle to measure how much you are actually loading the frame and suspension and do a real time analysis of the stress you put on your vehicle and warn you when you enter dangerous levels.
need to no about 4.3 liter in 2021 gmc 1500 4×4 reg cab 8ft box is it good all arund moter to have dail drive truck
That 4.3 Liter is reliable and durable and it’s been unchanged since the introduction of the 2014 Sierra but unfortunately, that engine will also be phased out for the 2022 Model Year, I purchased a 2019 Sierra Regular Cab 2WD with the Preferred Package, 1SA Package and Appearance Package and I primarily use it for Payload related purposes, overall, you got a good engine!!