When it comes to the heavy-duty truck market, the rivalry between General Motors and Ford is fierce. If you are eyeing the 2024 GMC 2500 Duramax Diesel, you’re looking at a truck that blends refined styling with serious capability. However, no truck is perfect.
Based on real-world testing and towing miles, we’ve broken down the top five things to love and the top five things to hate about the 2024 Duramax diesel compared to its main competitor, the Ford Super Duty.
5 Things We Love About the 2024 GMC 2500 Duramax
1. Superior DEF Efficiency
One of the biggest surprises with the 2024 Duramax is its Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) usage. Compared to the Ford Power Stroke, the DEF consumption on the GM diesel is significantly lower.
In real-world towing scenarios (like an 800-mile trip with a camper), the Duramax often doesn't need a refill, whereas a high-output Super Duty might require a top-up mid-trip. If you want fewer stops at the pump for DEF, the Duramax wins here.
2. Independent Front Suspension (IFS)
General Motors has stuck with its Independent Front Suspension, and for good reason. The ride quality is arguably the best in the segment.
While solid front axles have their place, the IFS makes the GMC 2500 drive smoother and more comfortably as a daily driver. If ride comfort is a priority—whether you're towing or commuting—this suspension setup is a massive selling point.
3. The Transmission & Engine Pairing
While the branding is controversial (more on that later), the performance is undeniable. The pairing of the Duramax diesel with GM’s 10-speed transmission creates what might be the smoothest shifting combo on the market. It offers a refined driving experience that feels seamless compared to clunkier alternatives.
4. Sleek and Refined Styling
Aesthetically, the 2024 GMC Sierra HD takes a different approach than the "chunky" aluminum look of the Fords. The GMC offers a sleek, refined factory look, particularly on trims like the Denali and Denali Ultimate. From the headlights to the fog lights, the styling is tasteful and modern without trying too hard.
5. Competitive MSRP Pricing
In a world where heavy-duty trucks are pushing $90,000 to $100,000, pricing matters. The GMC Duramax generally comes in with a lower MSRP than a comparably equipped Ford.
For example, a loaded GMC Denali Ultimate can be roughly $4,000 cheaper than a loaded Ford F-250 Limited. If you want a luxury tow rig that is slightly more affordable, GM offers better value at the dealership.
5 Things We Hate About the 2024 GMC 2500 Duramax
1. Lack of a High-Output Option
While the Duramax is capable, it is losing the numbers war.
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GMC Duramax: 470 HP / 975 lb-ft torque
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Ford High Output: 500 HP / 1,200 lb-ft torque
GM currently does not offer a "High Output" version of the Duramax. While 975 lb-ft is plenty for most, Ford is simply killing them on the spec sheet.
2. Small Fuel Tank Size
Range anxiety is real when towing. The largest fuel tank available on the GM 2500 is 36 gallons, even on long beds. In contrast, Ford offers an available 48-gallon tank.
When you are towing heavy and getting 10 mpg, that 36-gallon tank limits your range to roughly 250–300 miles. For those driving in remote areas out West, GM needs to step up and offer a 40+ gallon option.
3. The "Allison" Branding Issue
The hood badge says "Allison Transmission," but that isn't the whole story. Since 2020, GM has been using a transmission designed in-house. While Allison may "validate" or stamp it, it is not a true Allison-manufactured transmission like the older 6-speeds.
To many loyalists, this feels like false advertising. The transmission performs flawlessly, but the marketing transparency is lacking.
4. Decreased Fuel Economy
Despite the 2024 redesign offering more power, the fuel economy has taken a hit compared to previous model years.
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Average Unloaded: ~17-18 MPG
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Towing: ~7-12 MPG
Real-world testing suggests the current Duramax gets about 1-2 MPG less than the comparable Power Stroke. You would expect a newer engine design to improve efficiency, not regress.
5. Lower Towing & Payload Capacities
Finally, when you look at the raw capabilities, GM is lagging slightly behind the competition.
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GM 2500 Max Towing: 22,500 lbs
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Ford F-250 Max Towing: 23,000 lbs
Ford also edges out GM on payload capacity by several hundred pounds. While the differences are minor, it’s another category where GM isn't taking the gold medal.
The Verdict
The 2024 GMC 2500 Duramax is the king of ride comfort and value. If you prioritize a smooth daily drive and want to save a few thousand dollars upfront, it is an excellent choice. However, if you need the absolute max stats—biggest tank, most torque, and highest towing capacity—the competition currently has the edge.
Watch the full breakdown in the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66lZIIkUgQ8