2021 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Crew Cab Standard Bed 4WD with 6.2L V8 and Max Trailering Package
⚠ Pending verification
Figures were extracted from the source below and are pending confirmation against the OEM towing guide.
Source: OEM towing guide — [PDF] GMC TRAILERING GUIDE · retrieved 2026-07-02
Max Towing Capacity
11,800
lbs / 5,352 kg
Engine Variants
8 variants
Trim Notes
11,800 lb maximum requires properly equipped SLT Crew Cab standard bed 4WD model with available 6.2L V8 engine and Max Trailering Package; axle ratio 3.42. Max payload of 2,250 lbs is achieved on a Regular Cab long bed 2WD model with 4.3L V6 engine.
⚠ Important
Peak 11,800 lb: 6.2L V8, Crew Cab 4WD, Standard bed, 3.42 axle ratio, Max Trailering Package (SLT trim per overview footnote) (conventional ball hitch). Next-highest 11,300 lb: 5.3L V8 (L84), Double Cab 2WD, Standard bed, 3.42 axle ratio, Max Trailering Package.
◆ Gear you may need
Always confirm against your door-jamb sticker & OEM towing guide before hauling. Ratings vary by exact configuration.
Different configuration? Look it up
The 11,800 lbs figure above is the properly-equipped maximum for this model year. For a specific trim, engine, or drivetrain, run your exact setup through the live tool:
Prose overview
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 carries a maximum towing capacity of 11,800 lbs when properly equipped, paired with a Class V hitch. As with every truck and SUV, the rating swings by engine, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, and rear axle ratio — so two 2021 GMC Sierra 1500s on the same lot can be rated thousands of pounds apart. Match your trailer to the lowestrelevant limit (towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch rating), and verify against the sticker inside the driver's-side door jamb.
Related tow ratings
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 towing FAQ
What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?
A properly equipped 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is rated to tow up to 11,800 lbs. This maximum applies only to specific engine, axle, and tow-package combinations — most trims tow less.
What hitch class does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 need?
Based on its rated capacity, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 typically pairs with a Class V hitch. Always match the hitch to your loaded trailer weight and never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity.
Do I need a brake controller to tow with a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?
Most states require trailer brakes — and a brake controller — for trailers over 3,000 lbs loaded. A brake controller syncs the trailer's brakes with the vehicle's for safe, controlled stops.
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