2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD vs 2020 Toyota Tacoma

2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$35,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2020 Toyota Tacoma
2020 Toyota Tacoma
$26,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$35,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Tacoma
$26,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Toyota Tacoma scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is the better choice for those needing a powerful, capable truck with a variety of configurations and a user-friendly infotainment system. The 2020 Toyota Tacoma is a solid option for those seeking a smaller, more maneuverable truck with good off-road capabilities and standard safety features. However, the higher rating of the Sierra 2500HD makes it the recommended choice.

Overview

MSRP

$35,800

MSRP

$26,050

Average price

$53,680

Average price

$32,259

Listings

523

Listings

1681
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Plenty of cargo space
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Interior materials feel cheap
Pros
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Underwhelming base engine

2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD Reviews 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?

2020 Toyota Tacoma Reviews Summary

Growing up in the post–Marty McFly era, I saw small Toyota pickups everywhere in America. When the American automakers abandoned this market in the late 2000s, Toyota kept on trucking. The Tacoma remains the best-selling midsize truck in the US—it's more popular than the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier combined. The Ford Ranger isn’t a threat, either. Nearly a quarter-million people purchased a Tacoma last year, a vehicle that by any measure is loud, slow, and defiantly old-fashioned. It’s the capability, size, and dependable off-road features that keep Tacoma buyers satisfied. For 2020, it gets few but important design and technology updates to push this rough-and-tumble pickup into modern times.
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

Engine

2.7L 159 hp I4

Drive Train

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

4

Horsepower

Horsepower

159 hp @ 5200 rpm

MPG City

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

MPG Highway

23
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$35,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Tacoma
2020 Toyota Tacoma
$26,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
$35,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Tacoma
$26,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Toyota Tacoma scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is the better choice for those needing a powerful, capable truck with a variety of configurations and a user-friendly infotainment system. The 2020 Toyota Tacoma is a solid option for those seeking a smaller, more maneuverable truck with good off-road capabilities and standard safety features. However, the higher rating of the Sierra 2500HD makes it the recommended choice.

Overview
MSRP
$35,800
$26,050
Average price
$53,680
$32,259
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.9
4.3
Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Plenty of cargo space
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Interior materials feel cheap
Pros
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Underwhelming base engine
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?

Growing up in the post–Marty McFly era, I saw small Toyota pickups everywhere in America. When the American automakers abandoned this market in the late 2000s, Toyota kept on trucking. The Tacoma remains the best-selling midsize truck in the US—it's more popular than the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier combined. The Ford Ranger isn’t a threat, either. Nearly a quarter-million people purchased a Tacoma last year, a vehicle that by any measure is loud, slow, and defiantly old-fashioned. It’s the capability, size, and dependable off-road features that keep Tacoma buyers satisfied. For 2020, it gets few but important design and technology updates to push this rough-and-tumble pickup into modern times.
Video
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.7L 159 hp I4
Drive Train
4X2
Seating Capacity
3
4
Horsepower
159 hp @ 5200 rpm
MPG City
20
MPG Highway
23
Look and feel
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
7/10
2020 Toyota Tacoma
8/10

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD was a behemoth, prioritizing function over form. Its massive grille fed multiple radiators, ready for serious work regardless of the trim level. The Denali trim stood out with extensive chrome, including a large chrome grille and 8-lug chrome wheels. Premium exterior colors were available, with Onyx Black being a popular choice. 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 trims ranged from the basic Sierra with minimal frills to the more upscale SLE and SLT, each adding more features and conveniences.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma, while not a beauty contest winner, had a clean and simple design. The body, available in extended Access or four-door Double Cab forms, was rounded yet rugged. The TRD Pro trim featured redesigned LED headlights, a new grille, and Army Green paint. The interior was straightforward, with a modest touchscreen and practical controls. However, the materials were mostly bargain plastics and rubbers, and the leather seats in the TRD Pro were not up to par. Despite these shortcomings, the Tacoma's fit and finish were better than competitors like the Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier.

Performance
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
9/10
2020 Toyota Tacoma
7/10

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered two V8 engine options: a 6.6-liter gas engine producing 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine with 445 horsepower and an impressive 910 pound-feet of torque. The gas engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel engine used a 10-speed Allison transmission. The Sierra 2500HD could tow up to 18,510 pounds and haul a payload of up to 3,979 pounds. Despite its power, the truck had a poor turning radius and required careful maneuvering in tight spaces. Fuel economy was around 16.5 miles per gallon in combined driving.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma offered a base 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, but it was underpowered for the vehicle's weight. The better option was the 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. The V6 came with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with 4-wheel drive optional on most trims. The TRD Pro trim included 4WD and an electronic low-range transfer case. The Tacoma's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. However, the V6 engine was noisy, and fuel economy was poor, with 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for the V6.

Form and function
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
10/10
2020 Toyota Tacoma
8/10

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 only available with the crew cab. The truck featured helpful bed corner steps and an EZ lift-and-lower tailgate with a remote release. The MultiPro tailgate offered six different configurations, including a step into the truck bed. Inside, the 2500HD had ample room and numerous storage options, with additional storage under the rear seats in higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma's smaller size made it easier to maneuver in city environments and on trails. It offered a 5- or 6-foot bed length, with the TRD Pro and Limited trims only available with the short bed. The bed included a rail system with movable cleats, an optional power outlet, and LED lighting. The Double Cab's rear seats were cramped for long trips and lacked air vents. Under-seat storage bins were available but did not create a flat loading floor. The Tacoma's heater was quick and powerful, but the lack of a rear defroster and a driver's side grab handle were notable omissions.

Technology
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
9/10
2020 Toyota Tacoma
7/10

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running GMC Infotainment 3, featuring customizable icons, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SLT and Denali trims had an 8-inch screen with optional navigation. The Denali also included an 8-inch color driver-information screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though not as extravagant as the Ram 2500 Limited's massive screen.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen, with an 8-inch version available that included navigation and cloud-based traffic routes. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, along with a new USB-C port. Wireless phone charging and onboard Wi-Fi were available. The Tacoma also offered 360-degree cameras and a standard suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was functional and easy to use, though not the most advanced.

Safety
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
8/10
2020 Toyota Tacoma
8/10

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD included standard safety features like front and side 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. The Driver Alert Package II included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The truck's size and poor turning radius required careful maneuvering, but the safety features helped mitigate these challenges.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma came with standard safety features like forward-emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The Tacoma scored 4 out of 5 stars in NHTSA crash tests and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in five of six crash tests.

Cost Effectiveness
2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD
6/10
2020 Toyota Tacoma
7/10
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