2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD had a polarizing design that sparked significant debate upon its release. Critics often compared its aesthetics unfavorably to other Chevrolet models like the Camaro and Blazer, which also faced backlash. Despite initial resistance, the Silverado's design began to grow on some over time. However, the truck's primary focus remained on functionality over form, especially given its work-oriented nature. Inside, the cabin retained a familiar layout, with all controls and features in intuitive locations, making it user-friendly for those accustomed to previous models. The Silverado HD was available in various trims, from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious High Country, each offering a range of features to suit different needs.

In contrast, the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 carried forward its 2019 redesign into the new model year with minimal changes. The design was praised for its timeless and stoic appearance, reminiscent of classic trucks from the late '80s and '90s. Inside, the layout remained consistent with previous models, ensuring ease of use. The Sierra was available in six trims, from the base model to the luxurious Denali and the off-road-oriented AT4. Each trim offered a unique set of features, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs. The AT4 trim, in particular, stood out with its rugged design and off-road capabilities, while the Denali set the standard for luxury in pickup trucks.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two powerful V8 engine options, both displacing 6.6 liters. The standard gas V8 produced 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax turbodiesel V8 delivered 445 horsepower and a massive 910 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, sending power to either the rear wheels or an available 4-wheel drive system. The diesel engine, while not as responsive as the gas V8, provided a substantial swell of power, making it one of the punchiest diesel engines available. The Silverado 2500HD could tow up to 18,500 pounds, with the 3500HD model capable of towing up to 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck hitch. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but the truck managed an impressive 17 mpg during testing.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 offered a choice of five engines, starting with a 4.3-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. A 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine provided 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque, while a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel 6-cylinder engine delivered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Two V8 options were available: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an automatic transmission, with power sent to either the rear wheels or an available 4-wheel drive system. The Sierra 1500 could tow up to 12,100 pounds, and the AT4 trim featured off-road enhancements like all-terrain tires and upgraded suspension components. Fuel economy for the AT4 trim was 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 17 combined, with the most efficient version being the turbodiesel with rear-wheel drive, achieving 23/30/26 mpg.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was available in various bed and cab configurations, including a Regular Cab with a long bed, an extended Double Cab with either a standard or long bed, and a full 4-door Crew Cab with a standard or long bed. The Crew Cab offered ample interior space, with massive cubbies and trays for gear. The center console bin was particularly large, and the rear seats folded up to reveal a flat load floor and additional storage trays. The Silverado also featured Chevrolet's CornerSteps and BedSteps, designed to accommodate work boots, and an available power lift-and-lower tailgate for added convenience.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 was available with a single cab and a long bed, a double cab with a standard-size bed, or a full 4-door crew cab with either a standard or short bed. The Sierra featured a new carbon-fiber bed and MultiPro tailgate, which offered six different configurations for added versatility. The cabin was loaded with cupholders, cubbies, and storage units, providing ample space for gear and personal items. The rear seats folded upward to create a large storage area within the cabin, making it easy to store valuable items securely.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD excelled in its restraint with technology, offering a straightforward infotainment system with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Both systems featured large icons and a home-button bar for easy navigation. The truck also had multiple USB ports and power outlets, with wireless charging available on higher trims. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard on the LT, LTZ, and High Country trims, and available on the Custom and Work Truck trims.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a straightforward infotainment system with clear graphics, large icons, and a sensible menu. The system was complemented by tactile controls for the radio and climate settings. The AT4 trim included additional features like a head-up display, wireless charging, and multiple USB ports and outlets. The Sierra's infotainment system was praised for its simplicity and ease of use, avoiding the complexity of larger touchscreens found in some competitors.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came with standard safety features like a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. Higher trims offered additional safety features, including a surround-view camera, forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safety Alert Seat, which vibrated to alert the driver to safety messages, was also available. The truck's large side mirrors with integrated wide-angle mirrors made maneuvering easier.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 included standard safety features like a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. The AT4 trim added a surround-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The Sierra also featured GM's rear camera mirror, which projected a digital image from a rear-facing camera onto the rear-view mirror, providing a clear view even with obstructions.