2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD vs 2020 Jeep Gladiator

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator made quite an impression when it first hit the roads, especially in the vibrant Firecracker Red color. As it cruised through Los Angeles, it turned heads and sparked conversations, with many people eager to capture it on their smartphones. Despite its striking appearance, not everyone was a fan, as some found its design less appealing. The Gladiator was available in four trims: Sport, Sport S, Overland, and Rubicon, all equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed manual gearbox. Prices ranged from $33,545 for the base Sport to $43,545 for the Rubicon, with additional costs for options like an automatic transmission and a hardtop. The Overland trim, which was tested, came with numerous upgrades, bringing the total cost to $52,920.

In contrast, the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD was a massive truck that prioritized function over form. The Denali trim stood out with its extensive use of chrome, including a large grille, and was available in premium colors like Onyx Black. The Sierra 2500HD lineup included trims such as the Base, SLE, SLT, and Denali, each offering varying levels of features. The base model came with a V8 engine and a 7-inch touchscreen, while the SLE added amenities like aluminum wheels and a WiFi hotspot. The SLT offered more upscale features, and the Denali boasted a full leather interior and advanced technology. Despite its luxurious touches, the Denali's cabin was not as refined as some competitors, but the truck's simplicity and functionality were appreciated.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator, with its 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offered a driving experience reminiscent of a long Wrangler. The 8-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and decent acceleration, although towing a 5,000-pound trailer required some effort. Off-road, the Rubicon trim excelled with its Rock-Trac 4WD system, offering an 84:1 crawl ratio and features like locking differentials and an Off-Road+ traction system. The Overland trim, while less rugged, still managed challenging trails with its Command-Trac 4WD system. The Gladiator's steering was slow, and its live-axle suspension communicated road imperfections, but it delivered a unique driving experience, especially with the top and doors removed. Fuel economy was rated at 19 mpg combined, with an observed average of 20.3 mpg during testing.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered two powerful V8 engine options: a 6.6-liter gas engine with 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine with 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. Despite its size, the Sierra 2500HD managed to tow up to 18,510 pounds and haul a payload of up to 3,979 pounds. The truck's reversing camera and trailering apps aided in maneuvering, although its large size and poor turning radius required careful planning. Fuel economy was not officially rated, but an average of 16.5 mpg was observed during testing.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator featured a cargo bed capable of accommodating most motorcycle designs, with a maximum payload of 1,600 pounds. The bed was shallow, but various tie-downs and a middle tailgate mode enhanced its utility. The Overland trim offered heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with durable cloth upholstery and an optional hardtop. The Gladiator's cab provided ample space, with high front seats and a roomy back seat. Storage options included bins, nets, and a grab handle for the front passenger. The convertible nature of the Gladiator was a highlight, with options for a soft or hard top, allowing for an open-air driving experience.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD was available in various cab and bed configurations, with the Denali offering a crew cab and a choice of bed lengths. The truck featured helpful bed corner steps and an EZ lift-and-lower tailgate with a remote release. The MultiPro tailgate offered six configurations, including a step for easy access to the bed. Inside, the Sierra 2500HD provided ample space with numerous storage options. SLT-and-up trims included a storage area below the rear seats, which folded up for larger items.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offered basic technology features, with options for remote start, a passive entry system, and an upgraded infotainment system. The Overland trim included an 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and an Alpine sound system. The Uconnect system was user-friendly, with responsive inputs and large on-screen buttons. An exclusive feature was the removable Bluetooth speaker, which could be taken on adventures.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running GMC Infotainment 3, featuring customizable icons and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SLT and Denali trims offered an 8-inch screen with available navigation. The Denali also included an 8-inch color driver-information screen. The infotainment system was easy to use, providing the right technology in a practical package.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offered optional safety packages, including the Active Safety Group with blind-spot monitoring and rear parking sensors, and the Advanced Safety Group with adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning. The Gladiator's crash protection was uncertain due to a lack of testing data, and it lacked automatic emergency braking, resulting in a conservative safety rating.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD's size posed safety challenges, but it was equipped with cameras on all sides and trailering mirrors for better visibility. Standard safety features included airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. The Driver Alert Package I added parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, while the Driver Alert Package II included forward-collision avoidance and lane-departure warning.