2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD vs 2019 GMC Sierra 1500

Driving the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 through middle-class neighborhoods and across local ranchlands, the chrome-encrusted truck consistently turned heads. The redesigned Sierra was bigger inside and out than its predecessor, and GMC touted its “more dominant presence.” This phrase likely referred to a blend of masculine appeal and a robustness intended to attract admirers.

The Denali trim of the Sierra 1500, while loaded with features, was perceived as garish in some quarters. The oversize grille, silver skid plate, and large Denali lettering on the tailgate overwhelmed an otherwise appealing design. Yet, this version appeared somewhat toned down compared to the standard Sierra.

Inside, despite improved materials, the redesigned Sierra's cabin appeared just as raucous as the old model. Numerous seams and the dashboard's varied surface topography gave the interior an unrefined, albeit functional, appearance. Premium leather, open-pore wood trim, and real aluminum accents in the Denali attempted to elevate the sense of luxury, but the visual clutter detracted from the overall aesthetic appeal.

In contrast, the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD projected an aura of functionality over form, aligned with its Heavy-Duty (HD) designation. The truck's sheer scale was larger than the 1500 version, regardless of trim. The Denali trim of the 2500HD distinguished itself with an expansive use of chrome, including a substantial, attention-drawing grille. Additionally, purposeful 8-lug chrome wheels adorned the stance, aligning with the truck’s aesthetic.

The Denali in the 2500HD lineup was one of GMC’s flashiest trucks, especially in Onyx Black. While the Chevy truck designs received near-universal derision, the GMC 2500HD Denali maintained a level of attractiveness many buyers preferred.

Under the hood of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali sat a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and an Autotrac 4WD system, the truck delivered impressive acceleration, even if the towing and hauling capabilities were not tested in this review. The Sierra 1500 tackled up to 12,200 pounds of trailer and 2,240 pounds of payload, trailing slightly behind competitors like Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.

GMC’s Dynamic Fuel Management in this truck enabled cylinder deactivation to optimize performance and efficiency, yielding an EPA estimate of 17 mpg combined. However, real-world testing reflected 15.4 mpg initially, improving slightly to 16.3 mpg over a week of driving.

The new Traction Select system tailored the truck to specific weather and terrain types, combining well with the Autotrac 4WD system to broaden the truck’s versatility. The Adaptive Ride Control suspension enhanced the ride quality, although the large 22-inch wheels included in the Ultimate Package somewhat diminished this benefit.

In the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD, buyers had two V8 engine options: a gas and a diesel, both displacing 6.6 liters. The gas engine made 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, while the Duramax diesel cranked out 445 horsepower and an impressive 910 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed Allison transmission, delivered torque-rich performance, feeling almost limitless in power output, particularly noted when accelerating at various speeds.

The gas engine routed power through a 6-speed automatic transmission, which performed adequately but was overshadowed by the diesel’s prowess. The Sierra 2500HD hauled up to 18,510 pounds with ease and had a payload capacity of up to 3,979 pounds. With features like trailering apps and the ability to mount rear cameras, towing was made even more accessible.

Overall fuel efficiency for the Sierra 2500HD was not explicitly rated by the EPA, but the average observed mileage was 16.5 mpg during combined city and highway driving.

In the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500, the Ultimate Package included power side steps that facilitated easier entry and exit. The spacious cab with three extra inches of backseat legroom and rear air vents made the interior more comfortable. Heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel in the Denali trim enhanced comfort further. Additionally, the Sierra 2019 version provided substantial cargo space with a deeper and wider bed. The MultiPro Tailgate design added versatility with its six configurations, acting as a workstation or a step into the bed. Enhanced cargo tie-downs and a factory spray-in bedliner, along with an atomically engineered CarbonPro cargo box liner, reinforced the truck's practicality.

Comparatively, the 2020 Sierra 2500HD was available in numerous bed and cab configurations, including regular, double, and crew cabs, with corresponding bed options. The Denali version offered expansive interior space with useful features like various storage spaces and a below-seat storage area in the rear for SLT-and-higher trims. Larger corner steps at the rear bumper and steps ahead of the rear wheel well catered to ease of access.

The 2500HD provided a multi-functional EZ lift-and-lower tailgate with integrated MultiPro Tailgate functions, enhancing utility. When it came to cargo and towing capacities, the Sierra 2500HD was the clear winner with a higher payload and towing capacity compared to the 1500.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 made several technological advancements with next-generation infotainment systems. All Sierras came with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, although the free trial period for GMC’s subscription services was notably brief. The Denali trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, navigation system, Bose premium sound system, and a head-up display (HUD), the latter being a first in light-duty pickups. Additional camera systems like the HD Surround Vision and Trailer Camera Package facilitated maneuverability and towing.

In the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD, the standard 7-inch touchscreen running GMC Infotainment 3 featured customizable icons, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SLT and Denali trims upgraded to an 8-inch screen, with navigation as an option. The Denali's infotainment system included an 8-inch color driver-information screen in the instrument panel, enhancing the driving experience with pertinent information at a glance.

Though the 2500HD’s infotainment system might seem modest compared to competitors, its ease of use and practical design made it beneficial for everyday tasks.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 offered a range of safety features packaged in Driver Alert Packages 1 and 2. All versions included or had available offerings like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. Higher trims provided additional features such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. GMC’s Teen Driver monitoring and Rear Seat Reminder systems catered to family-oriented safety needs. Nonetheless, adaptive cruise control and full-speed-range automatic braking were not available.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD provided standard front and side airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Its safety was enhanced with features like front and rear cameras, two-tier trailering mirrors, and parking aids. The Driver Alert Package I added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Driver Alert Package II incorporated forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams, aiding drivers to manage its considerable size and maneuverability challenges.