2021 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD had a polarizing design that sparked significant debate upon its release. Critics, including CarGurus reviewers, often found the exterior unattractive, likening it to the controversial designs of the Camaro and Blazer. Despite initial resistance, the Silverado's design began to grow on some reviewers over time. However, the truck's primary appeal lay in its functionality rather than its form. The interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, featuring a familiar layout with all controls easily accessible, which was particularly beneficial for work-related tasks. The Silverado HD offered various trims, from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious High Country, each adding progressively more features and comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 was praised for its styling and the upscale Denali trim, which was often compared to owning a luxury vehicle. The Sierra AT4, priced at $66,695, was the off-road-ready version, featuring a 2-inch suspension lift, off-road suspension, and unique design elements like red front recovery hooks. The AT4's interior, while functional, was criticized for its extensive use of black plastic and lack of luxury feel despite its high price. The Sierra's innovative six-position MultiPro tailgate and CarbonPro Edition Package, which included a carbon fiber composite cargo bed, were notable features that enhanced its utility and durability.

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 and could be configured with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. The diesel engine, although not as responsive as the gas V8, provided impressive towing capabilities, with the 2500HD able to tow up to 18,500 pounds and the 3500HD up to 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck hitch. During testing, the Silverado achieved an observed fuel economy of 17 mpg, which was commendable for a heavy-duty truck.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, on the other hand, featured an affordable Duramax 3.0-liter turbodiesel six-cylinder engine, priced at $995. This engine produced 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, delivering maximum thrust at just 1,500 rpm. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Duramax engine provided smooth and efficient power delivery. The Sierra's automatic 4WD system was easy to use and maintained impressive traction in various weather conditions. During testing, the Sierra achieved an average fuel economy of 21.1 mpg, slightly below the EPA's rating of 24 mpg. The AT4's off-road suspension handled tough terrain with ease, and the truck's towing capacity reached up to 9,300 pounds with a payload rating of 2,150 pounds.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered various bed and cab configurations, including a Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. The Crew Cab, tested by CarGurus, provided 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's cabin layout remained largely unchanged, making it easy for users to find controls without re-learning their locations. The truck also featured Chevrolet's CornerSteps and BedSteps, which were designed to accommodate work boots, and an available power lift-and-lower tailgate for added convenience.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500's interior was spacious and comfortable, with large, supportive front seats and ample rear seating. However, the stiff leather upholstery lacked a sense of luxury. The test truck featured heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats, which were appreciated during cold weather. The Sierra's innovative six-position MultiPro tailgate and CarbonPro Edition Package added functionality and durability to the cargo bed. The bed's capacity ranged from 62.9 to 89.1 cubic feet, depending on length, and included up to 12 cargo tie-downs. However, the Sierra's interior storage space was less impressive compared to other full-size pickups, with smaller and less innovative storage solutions.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD excelled in its restraint with technology, offering a straightforward infotainment system. The base Work Truck and Custom trims came with a 7-inch touchscreen, while the LT, LTZ, and High Country trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a simple layout and large icons. 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 optional on the Custom and Work Truck trims.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 offered numerous camera-based technologies, including a surround-view camera, trailer- and bed-view cameras, and a rear camera mirror. These features were part of the optional Technology Package, which also included a 15-inch head-up display and an 8-inch driver information display. The Sierra's infotainment system featured a choice between a 7-inch and an 8-inch touchscreen, with the test truck equipped with the latter. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a navigation system. The Sierra AT4's Bose premium sound system was adequate but not as impressive as audio systems in some competitors. The truck's 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and 115-volt in-dash electrical outlet proved useful during power outages.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. The LTZ trim improved on the reversing camera with a surround-view camera and trailer views. The available Safety Package II added forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, along with a Safety Alert Seat that vibrated to alert the driver. The Safety Package I included front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, which were essential for maneuvering in tight spaces. The truck's large side mirrors with integrated trucking mirrors also aided in driving.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, despite being a premium brand, offered many safety features as options rather than standard. Forward collision warning, front pedestrian braking, and automatic emergency braking were available but not standard on the Denali trim. The Denali did include blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning, with lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and a Safety Alert Seat available on other trims. Adaptive cruise control was optional for the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims. The Sierra's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Marginal" ratings from the IIHS for front passenger protection and LATCH anchor accessibility. The truck's headlights also received a "Poor" rating.