2020 Honda Ridgeline vs 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 carried forward the design elements introduced in its 2019 redesign, maintaining a classic and stoic appearance reminiscent of the "GMT 400" trucks from the late 1980s and '90s. The interior layout was nearly identical to the 2018 model, with a flatter dash that gave it a jukebox look, but all controls were intuitively placed. The Sierra was available in six trims, with the Base model offering a V6 engine, a 7-inch touchscreen, and LED headlights. The AT4 trim, which was tested, featured off-road enhancements like all-terrain tires and red tow hooks, while the Denali trim set the standard for luxury with chrome accents and advanced tech features.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, faced criticism for its minivan-like front design, which contrasted with the rugged image expected of trucks. Despite this, the Ridgeline offered several updates, including a new nine-speed automatic transmission and standard Honda Sensing ADAS. The lineup was simplified to four trims, with the RTL-E trim tested, featuring leather upholstery and a high-quality interior. The Ridgeline's cabin was similar to the Honda Pilot, offering comfort and utility, but the rear seat was noted for limited legroom. The composite cargo bed included a unique in-bed trunk with a drain plug, enhancing its practicality.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 offered a range of five engines, starting with a 4.3-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. A 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivered 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque, while a Duramax turbodiesel 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine provided 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Two V8 options were available: a 5.3-liter with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, which was featured in the AT4 test model. The Sierra's 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD system offered versatility, with the AT4 trim excelling in off-road conditions. However, the off-road capabilities resulted in a rough on-road ride. Fuel economy varied, with the AT4 achieving 15 mpg city and 19 highway, while the turbodiesel offered the best efficiency at 23/30/26 mpg.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Ridgeline's i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system was standard on higher trims, enhancing its off-road capability with a ground clearance of 7.9 inches. The system could transfer power to individual wheels for improved traction and offered various driving modes for different terrains. While not as off-road capable as some competitors, the Ridgeline excelled in on-road comfort and handling, thanks to its independent rear suspension and torque-vectoring AWD. The Ridgeline's fuel economy was commendable, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined for AWD models.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, including a crew cab with a standard or short bed. The test model featured a carbon-fiber bed and MultiPro tailgate, which provided versatility and reduced weight. The cabin was equipped with numerous storage options, including fold-up rear seats for additional space. The MultiPro tailgate offered multiple functions, but the button-release mechanism was less intuitive than a traditional handle.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline provided the comfort and utility of a Honda Pilot with a 33.9 cubic-foot cargo bed. The front seats were comfortable, with heated options in higher trims, but the rear seat was limited in legroom. The Ridgeline excelled in in-cab storage, with ample space and a flip-up rear seat cushion for secure storage. The composite cargo bed included a 7.3 cubic-foot in-bed trunk with a drain plug, and the tailgate could drop or swing to the side. A power outlet and truck-bed audio system added to its functionality.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a straightforward infotainment system with clear graphics and tactile controls for radio and climate settings. The AT4 trim included a head-up display, wireless charging, and multiple USB ports, maintaining simplicity in its controls.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline came with an 8.0-inch touchscreen Display Audio system, lacking physical knobs and buttons. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but voice recognition was limited. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM, HD Radio, and a premium sound system, but user experience issues persisted.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 included standard safety features like a reversing camera and airbags, with available options such as a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and driver assistance features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The rear camera mirror offered an innovative view, replacing the traditional mirror image with a digital one.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline featured standard Honda Sensing ADAS, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added features like blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Ridgeline received high crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with minor exceptions.