2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD vs 2020 Nissan Frontier
Overview | |
MSRP$35,800 | MSRP$26,790 |
Average price$52,850 | Average price$22,891 |
Listings571 | Listings262 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.2 out of 10 | Expert reviews5.0 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD Reviews SummaryFew automakers have developed sub-brands with as much recognition as “Denali.” More than just a trim level, it’s a luxury brand with its own identity, somewhat separate from the rest of the GMC “Professional Grade” lineup. Today, GMC offers a Denali trim on every model, from the midsize Canyon pickup to the full-size Yukon SUV. The Denali treatment extends to the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD, too. Not only is it one of the most expensive trucks on the U.S. market, but it’s also one of the most capable and upscale trucks offered by General Motors. Trucks are more comfortable than ever and you can thank the Denali for many of those creature comforts becoming commonplace. But the Sierra Denali does not stand alone. Both Ford and Ram offer upscale pickups, and in the past decade or so, they’ve gotten a lot better at it. Ram has done a whole lot of innovating when it comes to trucks as well. Has the Denali has been overtaken by the competition that it helped create? | |
2020 Nissan Frontier Reviews SummaryNissan is celebrating the Frontier’s Sweet 16 this year, but this is not a coming-of-age milestone. Rather, it’s a long-overdue retirement party. And the Frontier is going out with a bang thanks to a brand-new engine and transmission that give a preview of what the next-generation Frontier has in store. Just make sure you don’t get into an accident, or you’ll get pretty banged up yourself. | |
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Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine | Engine3.8L 310 hp V6 |
Drive Train | Drive Train4X2 |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity4 |
Horsepower | Horsepower310 hp @ 6400 rpm |
MPG City | MPG City18 |
MPG Highway | MPG Highway24 |
Engine | |
Engine Name6.6L 401 hp V8 | Engine Name3.8L 310 hp V6 |
Torque464 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Torque281 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
Horsepower401 hp @ 5200 rpm | Horsepower310 hp @ 6400 rpm |
Drivetrain4X2 | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City | MPG City18 |
MPG Highway | MPG Highway24 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity4 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Bed Length98.3 in | Bed Length73.3 in |
Curb Weight6105 lbs | Curb Weight4180 lbs |
Height79.9 in | Height70.1 in |
Length235.5 in | Length205.5 in |
Width81.8 in | Width72.8 in |
Wheelbase141.6 in | Wheelbase125.9 in |
Maximum Payload3857 lbs | Maximum Payload1460 lbs |
Number of doors2 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity18510 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity6620 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity14500 lbs | Standard Towing Capacity |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $35,800 | $26,790 |
Average price | $52,850 | $22,891 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.2 out of 10Read full review | 5.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Few automakers have developed sub-brands with as much recognition as “Denali.” More than just a trim level, it’s a luxury brand with its own identity, somewhat separate from the rest of the GMC “Professional Grade” lineup. Today, GMC offers a Denali trim on every model, from the midsize Canyon pickup to the full-size Yukon SUV. The Denali treatment extends to the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD, too. Not only is it one of the most expensive trucks on the U.S. market, but it’s also one of the most capable and upscale trucks offered by General Motors. Trucks are more comfortable than ever and you can thank the Denali for many of those creature comforts becoming commonplace. But the Sierra Denali does not stand alone. Both Ford and Ram offer upscale pickups, and in the past decade or so, they’ve gotten a lot better at it. Ram has done a whole lot of innovating when it comes to trucks as well. Has the Denali has been overtaken by the competition that it helped create? | Nissan is celebrating the Frontier’s Sweet 16 this year, but this is not a coming-of-age milestone. Rather, it’s a long-overdue retirement party. And the Frontier is going out with a bang thanks to a brand-new engine and transmission that give a preview of what the next-generation Frontier has in store. Just make sure you don’t get into an accident, or you’ll get pretty banged up yourself. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.8L 310 hp V6 | |
Drive Train | 4X2 | |
Seating Capacity | 3 | 4 |
Horsepower | 310 hp @ 6400 rpm | |
MPG City | 18 | |
MPG Highway | 24 | |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 6.6L 401 hp V8 | 3.8L 310 hp V6 |
Torque | 464 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 281 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
Horsepower | 401 hp @ 5200 rpm | 310 hp @ 6400 rpm |
Drivetrain | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 18 | |
MPG Highway | 24 | |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 3 | 4 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Bed Length | 98.3 in | 73.3 in |
Curb Weight | 6105 lbs | 4180 lbs |
Height | 79.9 in | 70.1 in |
Length | 235.5 in | 205.5 in |
Width | 81.8 in | 72.8 in |
Wheelbase | 141.6 in | 125.9 in |
Maximum Payload | 3857 lbs | 1460 lbs |
Number of doors | 2 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 18510 lbs | 6620 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 14500 lbs | |
The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD was a testament to function over form, boasting a massive scale that was ready for serious work. Whether in the base trim or the luxurious Denali, the truck featured a massive grille that fed multiple radiators, supporting its hard-working engine. The Denali trim stood out with its extensive use of chrome, including a large chrome grille and chrome wheels, and was available in premium colors like Onyx Black. Despite its flashy appearance, the Denali's cabin was somewhat underwhelming, lacking the soft-touch materials found in competitors like the Ram 2500 Limited. The Sierra 2500HD prioritized simplicity and functionality, with consistent controls across all trims, making it a practical choice for those who valued straightforward operation in a truck.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier, on the other hand, retained a design reminiscent of its 2005 predecessor, which had aged well over the years. The PRO-4X trim added unique features like a tube-style roof rack, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a spray-in bedliner, enhancing its rugged appeal. Available in King Cab and Crew Cab styles, the Frontier offered various trim levels and packages, including the PRO-4X Crew Cab, which was priced at $38,745. Inside, the Frontier's cabin was a throwback to mid-2000s Nissan design, with hard plastic materials but impressive build quality. Despite its age, the Frontier's character and solid construction were part of its charm, appealing to those who appreciated a truck that drove like a traditional pickup.
The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered two robust V8 engine options: a 6.6-liter gas engine producing 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine delivering 445 horsepower and an impressive 910 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed Allison transmission, provided exceptional power and acceleration, making it feel unstoppable. However, the truck's size and weight resulted in a poor turning radius, requiring careful maneuvering in tight spaces. The Sierra 2500HD excelled in towing and hauling capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 18,510 pounds and a payload capacity of 3,979 pounds. Despite its size, the truck achieved an average fuel economy of 16.5 mpg during testing.
In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Frontier featured a new 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain replaced the previous 4.0-liter V6 and 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines, offering improved performance and fuel economy. The Frontier's new engine was smooth and refined, providing strong acceleration and responsive shifts. However, the truck's steering was slow and heavy, and its turning radius was wide. The PRO-4X trim included Bilstein off-road shocks, which absorbed rough terrain but allowed road imperfections to be felt in the cabin. Despite its dated driving dynamics, the Frontier's new powertrain was a highlight, offering a blend of traditional truck character and modern performance.
The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD was available in various bed and cab configurations, including regular, double, and crew cabs with standard or long beds. The Denali trim was limited to the crew cab with a choice of bed sizes. The truck featured practical elements like bed corner steps and an EZ lift-and-lower tailgate, with the MultiPro tailgate offering six configurations for easy access to the bed. Inside, the Sierra 2500HD provided ample space and storage options, with additional storage under the rear seats in higher trims.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier, despite its compact center console, offered ample storage with dual glove compartments and a bin under the center armrest. The PRO-4X trim included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, though it lacked the comfort of Nissan's Zero Gravity designs. Rear seat space was limited, with a flat bench and minimal backrest angle, and lacked modern amenities like rear air vents and USB ports. The Frontier's bed featured a spray-in bedliner, bed-rail caps, and a Utili-Track channel system, accommodating a payload of up to 1,020 pounds, though its depth and volume were modest.
The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen running GMC Infotainment 3, featuring customizable icons and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims like the SLT and Denali offered an 8-inch screen with available navigation. The Denali also included an 8-inch color driver-information screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly, providing essential technology without overwhelming complexity.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier's PRO-4X trim featured a 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with NissanConnect Apps, satellite radio, navigation, and a 10-speaker Rockford Fosgate sound system. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, relying on Bluetooth and Siri Eyes Free for connectivity. The Frontier's technology was minimal, reflecting its age, but offered basic functionality for those who preferred simplicity.
The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD's size posed safety challenges, but it was equipped with cameras on all sides and two-tier trailering mirrors to aid maneuverability. Standard safety features included airbags, traction control, a reversing camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Driver Alert Package I added parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Driver Alert Package II included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with lower scores for frontal-impact protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS rated it "marginal" in the small overlap frontal-impact test, and its headlights received a "poor" rating. The Frontier's safety features were limited to a reversing camera, antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control, lacking modern driver-assistance technologies.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Nissan Frontier scores 5.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the GMC Sierra 2500HD is the recommended choice, offering superior performance, technology, and safety features compared to the Nissan Frontier.
Choose the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD if:
- You need a truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities.
- You prefer a vehicle with straightforward controls and practical features.
- You value a robust diesel engine with impressive power and torque.
Choose the 2020 Nissan Frontier if:
- You appreciate a traditional truck character with a modern powertrain.
- You seek a midsize pickup with solid build quality and rugged appeal.
- You prefer a simpler, less tech-heavy vehicle.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Nissan Frontier scores 5.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the GMC Sierra 2500HD is the recommended choice, offering superior performance, technology, and safety features compared to the Nissan Frontier.
Choose the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD if:
Shop Now- You need a truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities.
- You prefer a vehicle with straightforward controls and practical features.
- You value a robust diesel engine with impressive power and torque.
Choose the 2020 Nissan Frontier if:
Shop Now- You appreciate a traditional truck character with a modern powertrain.
- You seek a midsize pickup with solid build quality and rugged appeal.
- You prefer a simpler, less tech-heavy vehicle.

By: CarGurus + AI
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