I Just Bought a 2025 GMC Sierra With the 2.7L Engine, I Like the Truck But It’s Slow, Now I Wish I Had the 5.3L V8

A 2025 GMC Sierra owner with the 2.7-liter turbo engine is now having second thoughts about his purchase. He thinks it's underpowered and wants to get the larger GMC Sierra with the 5.3-liter V8. He may be in for a surprise when he visits the dealer.

Posted: August 3, 2025 - 7:08AM
Author: Denis Flierl

2025 GMC Sierra pickup with a 2.7L engine

Should a 2025 GMC Sierra owner with the 2.7-liter turbo engine trade for another 2025 GMC Sierra with the larger 5.3-liter V8?

So first, imagine purchasing a new 2025 GMC Sierra pickup, and shortly after you purchase it, you are having buyer's regret. The pickup is underpowered with the 2.7-liter turbo engine, and now you wish you had bought the 5.3-liter V8.

Sal Safar on the 2025 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra Owners Facebook page says,

"Please help. This is my first truck, and it has the 2.7L engine. I really love the truck, but it feels a bit slow to respond, probably because of the smaller engine. I'm thinking about switching to the 5.3L V8. Can someone explain the difference between these two engines? Thank you!"

It's not going to go well when he wants to trade first of all.

Before we go there, what is the difference between the GMC Sierra 2.7L Engine and the 5.3L V8?

The 2.7L Turbo and 5.3L V8 engines in the GMC Sierra 1500 offer distinct performance characteristics. The 2.7L Turbo (TurboMax) prioritizes torque and fuel efficiency, while the 5.3L V8 emphasizes horsepower and towing capacity. The 2.7L offers more torque for quicker acceleration and better fuel economy, while the 5.3L provides more horsepower for towing and overall performance.

Here's a more detailed comparison:

2.7L Turbo (TurboMax):

Power: 310 horsepower, 430 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 22 mpg highway.
Towing: Up to 9,500 lbs.

Pros: Offers a strong torque curve for responsive acceleration, good fuel economy, and is often the standard engine on many trims

Cons: Might feel less powerful than the V8 for heavier towing, and may not be preferred for those seeking maximum horsepower

5.3L V8:

Power: 355 horsepower, 383 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: 10-speed automatic.
Fuel Economy: 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway.
Towing: Up to 11,000 lbs with max trailering package.

Pros: Stronger towing capacity, more horsepower for quicker acceleration, and generally preferred for heavier towing tasks.

Cons: Less fuel-efficient than the 2.7L Turbo.

2025 GMC Sierra with the 5.3L engine driving on the road

So, Which is the Best Engine?

Choose the 2.7L Turbo for a balance of torque, fuel economy, and responsive performance for everyday driving and lighter towing. It's a great choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and don't need the maximum towing capacity.

Choose the 5.3L V8 for maximum towing capacity, stronger horsepower, and performance for more demanding tasks.

Now, what will happen when Sal goes right back to the GMC to trade his truck for another 2025 model year pickup?

Trading in a 2025 GMC pickup for another 2025 GMC pickup for a different model and trim level, immediately after purchase, will likely result in a significant loss in value due to depreciation, even though it's a new vehicle. This is a factor that should be carefully considered before making a decision.

The initial drop in value occurs the moment a new vehicle is driven off the lot, and this loss is compounded by the fact that you are trading it in so soon.

The 2025 GMC Sierra is not considered a used vehicle even if it has less than 500 miles on it.

This means Sal will take a significant hit in what the GMC dealer will be willing to give him on a trade.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Immediate Depreciation: New vehicles, including GMC trucks, depreciate the most in the first year of ownership, and even more so within the first few months. This is because the value of a vehicle is based on its condition, mileage, and age, and even a brand-new vehicle is considered used once it's been titled.

Dealers need to factor in their costs of preparing the vehicle for resale, including reconditioning, advertising, and potential profit margin.

A Reddit user does the right thing and asks questions first before pulling the trigger on a new truck.

He says, I want to get a Silverado 1500 RST 4x4, and I'm trying to decide which engine to get. From what I've read, the stats for the two engines are.

2.7L Turbo V4: 310 HP, 430 lbs torque, 18/21 city/hwy mpg, trailering 9,000 lbs.

5.3L V8: 355 HP, 383 lbs torque, 16/20 city/hwy mpg, trailering 9,300 lbs.

However, the 5.3L has a Max Trailering option that increases towing from 9,300 lbs to 11,000 lbs. Max Trailering option is not available on the 2.7L.

So, it appears that while the 2.7L has much higher torque, its horsepower is just too small to haul larger loads. If I went with the 5.3L, I would opt for Max Trailering.

Conclusion:

Sal should have done his homework and conducted a more thorough investigation. This is a reminder of the importance of being well-informed before making a significant purchase, empowering you to make the best decision for your needs.

How About You?

Which 2025 GMC Sierra engine would you buy? We'd love to hear your thoughts. If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know. Your input is valuable and can help others in their decision-making process.

Check out my 2025 GMC Sierra story: I Bought a 2025 GMC Sierra and With Only 100 Miles I Had It Towed To the Dealer, The Engine Is Making A Horrible Death Rattle

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram

Photo credit: Denis Flierl

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