Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Our scoring places the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD at 6.8/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this truck. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.7/10, while Safety at 6.9/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional truck — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 7.6/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. Safety is a notable gap at 6.9/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
Performance scores 7.7/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. The cabin tech earns 8.7/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $34,504–$42,116, 10 MPG, seating 5, the GMC Sierra 2500HD sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. The 7.4/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a passable truck but not a standout one. Weaknesses in safety hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD ranks #469 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 9% of the segment. Its 6.8/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $34,504 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $35,138.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Sierra 2500HD Year Should You Buy?
Across the Sierra 2500HD model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Fuel economy at 10 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Is the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD reliable?
We rate the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD's reliability 7.6/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD worth buying?
It scores 6.8/10 overall, ranking #469 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 9% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD cost?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 2500HD starts at $34,504 and ranges up to $42,116 across trims (MSRP when new). At 10 MPG, expect roughly $5,250/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sierra 2500HD years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sierra 2500HD years we've rated are 2015 (6.7/10), 2017 (6.8/10), 2016 (6.8/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.3/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — GMC Sierra 2500HD
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More GMC Reviews
Explore the full lineup of GMC models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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