2020 Toyota Tacoma vs 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

When discussing the aesthetics and design of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma, one found it to be clean and simple, although not particularly striking. Unlike the Ram 1500, the Tacoma's design was utilitarian and straightforward. Notably, the back doors emitted a tinny sound reminiscent of older Toyota models, and the hood scoop, while suggestive of rugged performance, was non-functional. From the driver’s perspective, the bulging hood contributed to a rugged image, but the practical suburban lifestyle, highlighted by activities like going to yoga class, contrasted this image.

The Tacoma's body, offered in extended Access Cab or the four-door Double Cab configuration, balanced a rounded design with chiseled lines, maintaining a distinct truck appearance without excessive bulk. The Limited trim of the Tacoma featured 18-inch wheels, the height of its luxury features, while the TRD Pro trim introduced in 2020 showcased redesigned LED headlights with "TRD" and "PRO" accents, new sequential turn signals, and a striking Army Green paint option. The redesigned grille, reading “TOYOTA” in bold letters, along with an aluminum skid plate adorned with the TRD logo, highlighted the model’s readiness for urban curbs and off-road trails. The TRD Pro also included exposed Fox Racing shocks, black TRD alloy wheels, and all-terrain tires, reinforcing its tough image.

Inside, the Tacoma sported a straightforward, functional interior. Its upright dash was composed of rectangular planes surrounding a modest touchscreen supported by large toggle switches, buttons, and knobs. While the TRD Pro’s leather seats felt subpar, Toyota's focus on durability was evident through the use of basic, resilient materials like plastic and rubber, prioritizing longevity over luxury.

While the 2020 Toyota Tacoma embraced its rugged, utilitarian heritage, the GMC Sierra 1500 impressed with its timeless and stoic design. Completely redesigned in 2019, the 2020 model retained much of its predecessor's characteristics. The straight lines and sharp angles of the Sierra echoed the classic “GMT 400” trucks, reminiscent of an era when Bob Seger's “Like a Rock” symbolized rugged dependability.

The 2020 Sierra's interior shared a similar layout with the older 2018 model but with a flatter dashboard, evoking a jukebox-like appearance. While the design remained familiar, the placement and functionality of the controls remained a priority for GMC.

The Sierra offered six trims: Base, SLE, Elevation, SLT, Denali, and the off-road-focused AT4. Each trim accentuated specific features, from the Base model’s essential equipment to the Denali's luxurious touches and massive 22-inch wheels. The Elevation model stood out with body-color elements and 20-inch wheels, while the AT4 trim incorporated off-road tires and red tow hooks, emphasizing a rugged appeal without excessive chrome.

The interior of the AT4 featured black leather seats with brown accents, maintaining an upscale yet rugged aesthetic. In contrast, the Denali trim represented the pinnacle of luxury with myriad chrome accents, a head-up display, and advanced technology like wireless device charging.

Ultimately, choosing between the two depended on one's preference for the Tacoma's rugged simplicity or the Sierra's timeless sophistication.

Regarding performance, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma offered limited options initially. The base 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine produced a mere 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, insufficient for a vehicle of its size. This engine was only available on the SR and SR5 models, where the superior 3.5-liter V6 engine was optional. This V6, standard on all other trims, generated a respectable 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the V6 could come with either rear-wheel drive or optional 4-wheel drive, while the TRD Pro exclusively boasted 4WD.

An optional 6-speed manual transmission for the TRD Off-Road and Pro trims included the unique Clutch Start Cancel feature, advantageous for off-road driving situations. However, the manual transmission precluded advanced automated systems like Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) and Crawl Control, which aided off-road traction and speed control but were restricted to low-range settings.

On regular roads, the Tacoma’s performance felt antiquated. Its steering was sluggish, and the V6 engine underperformed, requiring frequent activation of the "ECT PWR" button for better acceleration. Fuel economy was disappointing, with the V6 averaging just 18 mpg city, 22 highway, and 20 combined. However, the Tacoma's ride quality was smooth, and its off-road capabilities were commendable, thanks to substantial ground clearance and superior approach/departure angles. Additionally, the Tacoma’s V6 models could tow up to 6,800 pounds and carry a 1,440-pound payload.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 provided a diverse range of engine options. The base 4.3-liter V6 had a history dating back to the 1980s and was known for producing 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more modern alternatives, the 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine offered 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, a Duramax turbodiesel 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine was available, delivering 277 hp and a substantial 460 lb-ft of torque.

Two V8 engines, a 5.3-liter and a 6.2-liter, were also offered. The 5.3-liter engine produced 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, making it a popular choice. Our test AT4 model featured the 6.2-liter V8, which delivered an impressive 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, ensuring vigorous acceleration and robust performance at any speed. This engine, coupled with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, made the Sierra an adept performer on the road.

The Sierra’s 4WD system included a low range and was a breeze to engage with the push-button controls, offering settings for 4-high, 4-low, 2WD, and an automatic mode for variable conditions. Fuel economy was a trade-off, with the AT4 achieving 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 17 combined, while the most efficient turbodiesel model with rear-wheel drive reached 23/30/26.

For heavy-duty tasks, the Sierra excelled, boasting a towing capacity of up to 12,100 pounds and extensive off-road capabilities with features like all-terrain tires and Rancho off-road shocks. However, the performance-oriented elements of the AT4 trim, unfortunately, resulted in a stiffer on-road ride.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma’s appeal lay in its more compact dimensions compared to full-size trucks like those from the Big Three. Its smaller size facilitated easier navigation and parking in urban settings and made it better suited for tight trails. While larger than traditional small trucks from the 1990s, the Tacoma still fit comfortably in standard garages and had a manageable turning circle.

The Tacoma bed, while relatively shallow, featured a flexible rail system with four movable cleats for cargo security, plus optional amenities like a power outlet and LED lighting. The Tacoma came with either a 5- or 6-foot bed length, except for the TRD Pro and Limited trims which only offered the short bed. Inside, the Double Cab’s rear seats were adequate for brief journeys but quickly became cramped on longer trips. The lack of rear air vents and the limited utility of the hidden storage bins under the rear seats were notable shortcomings.

In contrast, the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 offered extensive versatility. Available as a single-cab with a long bed, a double-cab with a standard bed, or a full crew-cab with either a short or standard bed, the Sierra catered to various needs. Our test model showcased GMC’s innovative carbon-fiber bed and the MultiPro tailgate, enhancing fuel efficiency and usability. The MultiPro tailgate operated in six different ways, including serving as a convenient step into the truck bed or a bed extender, complementing the sturdy corner bed steps.

Inside, the Sierra boasted an impressive array of storage solutions, with numerous cupholders, cubbies, and compartments. The rear seats folded upwards, offering significant cabin storage for securing valuable items. Though not as compact as the Tacoma, the Sierra's comprehensive design and functionality catered to a broad audience.

In terms of payload and towing capacity, the Sierra surpassed the Tacoma, with the Sierra having a significantly higher towing capacity of up to 12,100 pounds compared to the Tacoma’s 6,800 pounds.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma provided a straightforward, user-friendly infotainment experience. Standard equipment included a 7-inch touchscreen radio, while higher trims featured an 8-inch version with navigation and cloud-based traffic. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa became standard for 2020, along with a new USB-C port. Optional features included wireless charging and onboard Wi-Fi.

Despite lacking some cutting-edge tech, the Tacoma still offered practical technology, such as 360-degree cameras with off-road views and a driver assist suite that included adaptive cruise control. The system was functional and easy to use, despite not being the most advanced on the market.

Similarly, the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 prioritized straightforward controls. Its infotainment system featured clear graphics, large icons, and a sensible menu layout, augmented by tactile controls for climate and radio functions. The system included multiple USB ports and wireless charging capabilities. Our AT4 trim also had a head-up display (HUD), illuminating important information directly on the windshield for easy viewing.

While not as flashy as the massive touchscreens found in competitors' models, the Sierra’s infotainment system's clarity and ease of use were highly praised.

Toyota equipped the 2020 Tacoma with an impressive array of standard safety features, including forward-emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and optional blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The Tacoma performed well in safety tests, earning 4 out of 5 stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick with generally good ratings in crash tests.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500’s safety features were equally comprehensive. Standard equipment included a reversing camera, traction control, and an extensive airbag array. Our AT4 trim model came equipped with advanced safety features like a surround-view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. An innovative feature, the rear camera mirror, projected a clear rear view onto the mirror, aiding visibility in obstructed conditions.