2020 Jeep Gladiator vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator made quite an impression during its video review in Los Angeles. With temperatures soaring above 80 degrees, the beaches in Malibu were packed, and traffic on the Pacific Coast Highway was reminiscent of the notorious 405 freeway. The Firecracker Red Gladiator Overland drew significant attention, sparking conversations and causing people to stop, gawk, and take photos. Despite some negative opinions, such as a neighbor who found it "ugly," the Gladiator's unique design and vibrant color made it a standout on the road.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was notable for its sheer size and capability. Redesigned for the 2020 model year, the 2021 version introduced new special editions, advanced camera technology, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Silverado 2500HD offered a variety of body styles, trim levels, and bed lengths, catering to a wide range of preferences. Its imposing presence and practical features, such as Integrated BedSteps and large CornerSteps, made it a formidable work truck, though its exterior design was less sophisticated compared to some competitors.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator, with its 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, delivered a driving experience akin to a long Wrangler. The 8-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and decent acceleration, though towing 5,000 pounds of trailer and ski boat revealed some laboring, especially on inclines. Off-road, the Rubicon trim's Rock-Trac 4WD system and various off-road features made it nearly unstoppable, while the Overland trim's Command-Trac 4WD system handled rocky trails with ease. The Gladiator's fuel economy was rated at 19 mpg combined, with an observed average of 20.3 mpg over 600 highway miles.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two engine choices: a 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine with 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel with 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission. The diesel engine, in particular, provided smooth and vigorous acceleration, even when towing up to 18,500 pounds. The Silverado 2500HD's maximum payload varied depending on the engine and drivetrain, with the gasoline engine offering up to 3,979 pounds and the diesel up to 3,715 pounds. Fuel economy figures were not provided, as heavy-duty trucks are classified as work vehicles.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator's cargo bed, with the tailgate down, was designed to hold 95% of motorcycle designs and had a maximum payload of 1,600 pounds. The bed was shallow but functional, with various cargo tie-downs and a tailgate middle mode for hauling large items. The Overland trim featured heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and durable black cloth upholstery. The cab offered ample space for front and rear passengers, with various storage options and a convertible top for an open-air driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD provided a spacious and comfortable interior, especially in the Crew Cab version. Standard features included a 40/20/40 split-bench seat, vinyl or cloth upholstery, and a power-sliding rear window with defogger. Higher trims offered bucket seats, a full center console, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats. Assist handles, manual windows, and a rubberized floor were standard, with more luxurious features available in upper trims. The Silverado's interior space and comfort were notable, though competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram 2500HD offered more upscale appointments.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator's technology offerings included remote start, a passive entry system, and an upgraded infotainment system with an Alpine premium sound system. The mid-level Uconnect 4 system featured a 7-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. The top infotainment system, available in the Overland trim, included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM Guardian connected services. The system was user-friendly, with responsive inputs and large on-screen buttons, though it lacked a breadcrumb function for off-road navigation.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came standard with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system worked well overall but had issues with station scrolling. Additional standard features included a 12-volt front power outlet, a two-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth. Available features included a 120-volt power outlet, WiFi hotspot, an 8-inch driver information screen, a Bose audio system, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Chevrolet's camera technology was a highlight, with a bed-view camera available on lower trims.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offered optional Active Safety and Advanced Safety Groups. The Active Safety Group included blind-spot monitoring, rear parking-assist sensors, and LED taillights, while the Advanced Safety Group added 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 score.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was not crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included six airbags, a rearview camera, Teen Driver software, electronic stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The Safety Confidence Package, available on Work Truck and Custom models, added forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and other features. Additional available safety technologies included cruise control, front and rear park assist, lane-departure warning, and OnStar services.