2021 Jeep Gladiator vs 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

For the 2020 model year, the GMC Sierra 1500 carried forward the comprehensive redesign it underwent in 2019. This truck’s aesthetic was an evolution of its previous iteration, retaining the straight lines and crisp angles reminiscent of the 1980s and '90s “GMT 400” trucks. Those who pondered at the Sierra may have nostalgically imagined Bob Seger’s "Like a Rock" playing in the background, encapsulating its timeless, stoic appeal.

Inside, the cabin layout of the 2020 Sierra mirrored that of the 2018 model, maintaining familiar settings with slight modifications. The dash was flatter, giving it a jukebox-like appearance, but all crucial controls remained logically positioned, enhancing driver convenience.

The Sierra 1500 was available in six trims: Base, SLE, Elevation, SLT, Denali, and AT4. The Base truck came fairly equipped with a V6 engine, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and LED headlights. Progressive trims added various features, with highlights including a WiFi hotspot on the SLE, heated front seats and remote engine start on the Elevation, and premium materials on the SLT. The AT4 trim targeted off-road enthusiasts with all-terrain tires and unique styling elements. Meanwhile, the Denali stood at the pinnacle, featuring extensive chrome accents, 22-inch wheels, and luxurious interior amenities.

Conversely, Jeep crafted the 2021 Gladiator by transforming a Wrangler—stretching and fortifying its frame to meet the rigors of towing and hauling while engineering a 5-foot cargo bed. It appeared somewhat unconventional—tall, long, and narrow, especially with Wrangler-based aesthetics—inducing cognitive dissonance initially. Yet, driving it through rugged terrains and open-air experiences quickly endeared the Gladiator to enthusiasts.

The newly introduced Willys special edition added a blacked-out grille, limited-slip rear differential, rock rails, and 32-inch all-terrain tires to the Sport or Sport S trims. The 80th Anniversary Edition brought unique badges and finishes. At the luxury end, the High Altitude model debuted with body-color detailing and Nappa leather interiors.

Starting at $33,545 for the base Sport with a manual transmission and basic amenities, our test model was a well-equipped Overland trim, inclusive of a new turbo-diesel engine, pushing the price to $58,525. The interior of this truck was notably plush for a Gladiator, with heated front seats, leather upholstery, and top-tier infotainment—a departure from its rugged roots yet retaining durable materials designed for demanding adventures.

In 2020, the GMC Sierra 1500 offered a multitude of engine choices. The base engine was a venerable 4.3-liter V6 generating 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder provided a compelling non-V8 option with 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque. The Duramax turbodiesel engine, a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder, produced 277 hp and an impressive 460 lb-ft of torque.

Truck enthusiasts favored the two V8 options: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, and the robust 6.2-liter V8, which our AT4 test model boasted, delivering a commanding 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Each engine funneled power via an automatic transmission to either rear wheels or an optional 4WD system. The 10-speed transmission operated with a traditional column shifter, resonating with nostalgic drivers who preferred this over modern alternatives. The 4WD system featured convenient push-button operation with settings for various driving conditions.

Our AT4’s 6.2-liter V8 delivered thrilling acceleration and relentless power through all speed ranges. Towing capacity peaked at 12,100 pounds when properly equipped, surpassing most users' requirements. Enhancements in the AT4 included rugged skid plates, upgraded suspension components, and hill-descent control, contributing to its impressive off-road competence despite a rougher on-road ride. Fuel economy for our AT4 averaged 15 mpg in the city and 19 on the highway.

For its part, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator had traditionally relied on a 3.6-liter gasoline V6, but a new 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 arrived in 2021, costing an additional $4,000. Producing 260 hp at 3,600 rpm and 442 lb-ft of torque from 1,400-2,800 rpm, the diesel engine delivered strong low-end performance and improved fuel efficiency. Our test yielded an average of 22.6 mpg on a challenging mountainous route.

The gas-powered Gladiator Sport could tow up to 7,650 pounds with the right equipment, while payload capacities topped out at 1,700 pounds. The turbo-diesel fell short in towing due to cooling constraints but managed a respectable 6,000-6,500-pound towing capacity.

The Gladiator excelled off-road, especially with its Rubicon trim. The low-end torque of the diesel engine was advantageous on tough trails, making obstacle navigation almost effortless. Unfortunately, standard driving traits such as slow steering and a bouncy ride translated from the gasoline version to the diesel. Notably, we observed wind noise and unrefined handling on curvy roads.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 offered multiple configurations, including single cab, double cab, and crew cab versions. Our test model, a full 4-door crew cab, featured GMC’s innovative carbon-fiber bed and MultiPro tailgate. The carbon-fiber bed reduced weight and enhanced fuel efficiency. The MultiPro tailgate was versatile, functioning as a bed-extender or step, complementing the integrated corner bed steps.

In-cabin, the Sierra brimmed with storage solutions—cupholders, cubbies, and fold-up rear seats providing ample space for secure storage. The interior layout catered to modern conveniences and practical usage.

Comparatively, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator prioritized rugged functionality over comfort. Its cabin, accommodating though compact, featured minor impediments like challenging door entries and cramped rear legroom. Storage solutions inside the Gladiator were practical but limited in comparison, with various compartments and a removable under-seat storage bin.

The Gladiator’s cargo box, a 5-foot steel bed with 35.5 cubic feet of capacity, included multiple tie-down hooks and an adjustable tailgate for versatile hauling. Payload ratings ranged between 1,075 to 1,535 pounds based on configurations, slightly more modest in comparison to competitive trucks.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500's infotainment was lauded for its simplicity and functionality. Featuring clear graphics, large icons, and logical menus, the system was complemented by tactile radio and climate controls, eschewing the trend of oversized touchscreens. The AT4 trim came equipped with a head-up display, wireless charging, and several USB ports, retaining straightforward control interfaces.

Although the 2021 Jeep Gladiator had old-school roots, its technology suite was commendable. The base Uconnect 3 system with a 5-inch display offered basic connectivity features. Upgrading to Uconnect 4, standard from Sport S trim onward, provided Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top-tier Uconnect 4C, featured in our test model, included an 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, enhanced connected services, and an Alpine premium sound system. The Trail Cam was newly available, aiding off-road navigation by displaying upcoming obstacles clearly.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 included standard safety features such as a reversing camera and traction control, with extensive airbag coverage. Our AT4 test model featured additional safety systems: a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and a suite of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Noteworthy was GM’s innovative rear camera mirror, offering a digital alternative to the traditional reflective mirror.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator’s standard safety features were minimal, focused around a reversing camera. Available upgrades included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, among others. Given the narrow side mirrors, blind-spot monitoring was particularly valuable. Limited crash-test results indicated a four-star frontal-impact rating from NHTSA and a three-star rollover resistance rating.