2019 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2020 RAM 1500

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 received a complete redesign with upgrades to its size, capability, and usefulness. Meanwhile, the 2020 Ram 1500 added an EcoDiesel engine option to its powertrain lineup. Both are highly capable trucks aiming to lead the popular full-size pickup segment. The 2019 Sierra has a bolder, more aggressive look compared to its predecessor. The interior offers comfortable seats but can look busy with lots of seams and varying surfaces. Technology upgrades include new infotainment systems, cameras, and an available head-up display. The 2020 Ram 1500 features a rugged, muscular exterior design with an oversized grille. The cabin excels in storage space and rear seat comfort. New for 2020 is an EcoDiesel V6 engine option delivering impressive torque figures. The Ram impresses with its large 12-inch touchscreen and class-leading torque.

CarGurus rates the 2019 Sierra 1500 performance a 7 out of 10, while the 2020 Ram 1500 gets a 7 out of 10 as well. The Sierra’s optional 420-hp 6.2-liter V8 delivers quick acceleration. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Towing capacity tops out at 12,200 pounds. Fuel economy averages around 16 mpg in real-world driving. The ride is compliant thanks to the adaptive suspension. The Ram 1500 offers three engine choices: a 305-hp V6, a 395-hp V8, and a 260-hp EcoDiesel V6. The diesel produces a class-leading 480 lb-ft of torque but can still exhibit turbo lag. Towing capacity reaches 12,750 pounds with the gas V8. Fuel economy is around 15 mpg for the V8 and 20 mpg for the V6. The Ram 1500 provides a composed ride quality.

The 2019 Sierra 1500 gets a perfect 10 out of 10 from CarGurus for its utility, while the 2020 Ram 1500 gets an 8 out of 10. The Sierra provides generous interior space, comfortable seats, and abundant cargo flexibility. Rear legroom increased over the previous generation. The MultiPro tailgate offers multiple configurations for easier loading. Large CornerSteps now make it easier to access the bed. The Ram 1500 has one of the most spacious cabins in its class. Front seats are comfortable, and rear seats can even recline. However, maximum towing capacity requires compromising on cab and bed configurations. The truck also provides over 5 cubic feet of interior storage space.

CarGurus gives the 2019 Sierra 1500 a 9 out of 10 for technology, compared to a 7 out of 10 for the 2020 Ram 1500. The Sierra gets new infotainment systems including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An available rear camera mirror, surround view camera, and trailer cameras aid visibility. There’s also an optional head-up display and Wi-Fi hotspot. The Ram 1500’s optional 12-inch touchscreen is a standout with a responsive, easy-to-use interface. Lower trims still come with an impressive 8.4-inch screen. The mild hybrid and diesel powertrains showcase Ram’s innovative engine tech. USB ports are abundant throughout the cabin.

Safety scores are an 8 out of 10 for the 2019 Sierra 1500 and a 9 out of 10 for the 2020 Ram 1500 according to CarGurus experts. The Sierra offers some driver-assistance features like parking sensors and alerts for blind spots, cross traffic, lane departure, and forward collision, but adaptive cruise control is not available. The Ram 1500 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for its Crew Cab configuration. Safety features like parking aids must be added separately. Adaptive cruise control is optional. Forward collision warning comes only on higher trims.

CarGurus rates the 2019 Sierra 1500 as a 7 out of 10 for value, with the 2020 Ram 1500 also earning a 7 out of 10. The Sierra started around $30,000 when new, but metallic paint costs extra. Some technology features only come with short trial periods. Capability metrics trail some rivals, but for most buyers, style, comfort, and acceleration matter more than max tow ratings. The Ram 1500 starts low with the Tradesman trim and offers abundant customization options. Powertrains, tech, and safety equipment are widely accessible throughout the lineup. The Ram presents an outstanding value for a full-size truck.