The Two Best Full-Size Trucks For Towing

Your search for “used trucks in Atlanta” ends here because we’ve got the best list of used full-size trucks for you. When you’re purchasing a used truck, you want something that lasts. Whether you plan on keeping it forever or selling it eventually, you don’t want a model that starts to croak at 150,000 miles or less. That’s why we’re going to take a look at the Silverado and Sierra 1500 models. This guide will not only help you in the buying process, but it also gives you even more of a reason to visit us. We offer both of these models here at Rick Hendrick Buick GMC Duluth, but before you stop by, check out these models and some of their specs, so you know what to look for when you get here.

The Chevy Silverado 1500

The Silverado’s initial concept goes all the way back to the 1970s when it appeared as a trim-level for the Chevy C/K line of trucks. What used to be a truck trim turned into its own model in 1999, and it’s been meeting all of our towing and hauling needs since. The main thing to remember about the Silverado is that it’s known for its longevity. There are multiple reports of this model reaching well over 300,000 miles or more, while some Silverado models have been kicking long after 1-million miles. Throw some tender care and maintenance into a Silverado model, and you’ll have a truck you can depend on for years.

While the Silveardo’s resilience is undeniable, we still recommend going with a third or fourth-generation Silverado model when you’re buying used. The third-generation Silverado spanned from 2014 to 2018, and the fourth-generation models span from 2019 to the present day. These models offer higher towing capacities than the Silverado ever has before.

For an example of specs and reasons as to why the Chevy Silverado 1500 is one of the best full-size trucks for towing, let’s look at the 2018 and 2021 models. First off, the 2018 Silverado 1500 model can tow up to 12,500 pounds when you choose the 6.2-liter V8 engine. Thanks to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, you can easily haul a small horse trailer, a camper, or a fishing boat like it’s nothing. The truck bed can be used for hauling heavy items as well with a 2,250-pound max tow capacity.

Trailering equipment is also essential when you’re looking for trucks to tow and haul with. The good news here is that the 2018 Silverado 1500 comes with a standard Trailering Package. This includes receivers, connectors, a trailering hitch platform, and more. You can upgrade this to the Max Trailering Package, which is how you reach that max 12,500-pound tow capacity. To further your vision field, add on extendable tow mirrors to really up your towing game. Overall, the 2018 Silverado 1500 is a great used model for those who need high tow capacity levels but who also need to save some money.

The 2021 model offers a towing capacity of up to 13,300 pounds with a max 2,280 payload capacity. The main perk to choosing this one over the 2018 version is for its towing technology. Drivers get up to 15 different camera views with this model and an in-vehicle trailering system which includes departure checklists and trailer monitoring and diagnostics.

Most importantly, drivers get features like Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist, and Auto Grade Braking. TSC is used to help prevent fishtailing, while Hill Start Assist keeps drivers from rolling back when on an incline. Auto Grade Braking is important because it reduces brake wear and tear by automatically holding back the truck and trailer on declines.

Both the 2018 and 2021 Silverado 1500 models are great options for towing. While their towing capacities are almost identical, you’ll save a little money with the 2018 version. However, the tech that comes with the 2021 version proves incredibly helpful, making the towing experience easier and safer.

The GMC Sierra 1500

The second truck we recommend for towing is the GMC Sierra 1500. Known as the Silverado’s “twin,” this truck also first originated in 1999. Its third and fourth generations span the same dates as the Silveardos, the third generation lasting from 2014 to 2018, and the fifth from 2019 and on. While these two vehicles are known as “twins,” it’s important to note some key differences between the two models.

First off, the GMC Sierra is a great model for towing, but it’s not solely centered on work. Instead, the Sierra offers luxury and convenience benefits that make it a bit more appealing to family-oriented drivers. When you need a tow-capable truck that can also entertain your family and look great while doing it, we highly recommend the GMC Sierra 1500.

The specific model that we’re going to look at today is the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500. The 2020 GMC Sierra meets our towing expectations, maxing out at 12,100 pounds with its 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine. It can handle up to 2,240 pounds in its bed as well. The 2020 Sierra 1500’s class-exclusive carbon-fiber cargo bed gives it extra strength and protection compared to other models in its class. Just like with the Silverado, you’ll get trailer tow mirrors with this model as well.

Off-roading is also possible with the Sierra 1500 thanks to its AT4 off-roading package, which includes several helpful features. The AT4 trim offers skid plates, a 2-inch lift, DuraTrac tires, and red recovery hooks, to name just some of its assets. Pair this with the Sierra 1500’s available Advanced Pro Grade Trailering System, and you’ll get just as many tow tech features as the Silverado with the off-road capability of an AT4 Sierra. In addition to its strength and capability, this model includes heated and ventilated seating, a heads-up display, and a Bose audio system, which is all part of what makes it stand out from the crowd.

Which Model For Towing?

While the Silverado 1500 and the Sierra 1500 often get lumped into the same category, they’re not the exact same trucks. When you want something that offers fewer tech features, a lower price tag, and is less aesthetic-centered, check out the Silverado 1500. You can purchase this truck with the bare minimum tech specs, saving you money yet giving you a much higher tow capacity than older Silverado generations.

However, if you prefer living a luxurious experience while still maintaining a high tow capacity, the Sierra 1500 is a great option. While towing within itself is a common need, many folks who need a tow-capable model also enjoy heading off the pavement as well. One main distinction between these two models is that the Sierra offers better off-roading features thanks to the AT4 trim. If you’re the type who needs some serious towing capacity but you also like to hit the trails, we recommend the GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 trim over the Silverado.

There isn’t a “clear winner” between these two GM trucks. Rather, it’s more about the small distinctions. What matters more to you, affordability and simplicity, or luxury and convenience? Both models come with options for important trailer tow technologies, but overall, the Sierra is more convenience-focused. You’ll save money with the Silverado, whereas you’ll feel pampered with the Sierra. The decision is entirely up to you, but either way, you can count on either of these powerful models to tow and haul whatever you need. And you can count on us at Rick Hendrick to get you behind the wheel of your choice. So contact us or swing by the dealership today!