Coming off a complete redesign for the 2019 model year, the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 adds a diesel engine and first-of-its-kind trailering technology. These are both exciting additions to an already impressive list of features. The 2019 model year saw an overhaul of the truck’s design, making it longer and lighter than the previous generation. The redesign also brought more interior space as well as new upscale options. There were new features introduced that make it easier to tow a trailer or carry payload. And, you’ll notice, if you find yourself at a GMC dealer, the Sierra has now made it even easier to tow, and now there’s a diesel option, too. If you’re looking for an upscale truck that is also up for just about any job, the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 should be at the top of your list.
With the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500, there really is something for everyone. You have a choice of powertrains that can tow up to 12,200 lbs or return up to 30 MPG on the highway. Even with the excellent fuel efficiency, if you choose the diesel engine, you can still tow up to 9,100 lbs. That’s an incredible combination of efficiency and power, and the 10-speed automatic transmission is so smooth that you can use this powertrain for daily driving duties as well. But if you’re looking for more power, there are many options to choose from. In fact, you have your choice of six engines, including two different versions of GM’s 5.3-liter V8. So no matter what you might need, there is sure to be a choice that makes sense for your lifestyle.
Which Engine Should You Choose?
With so many options, let’s take a closer look at what each engine offers and see which one might make the most sense for you. The base engine is a 4.3-liter V6 with 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. You can expect to return 16/21 MPG with this engine. Moving up brings a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-4 with 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque. This engine also offers excellent fuel efficiency at 20/23 MPG. The next engine is the diesel option, and this 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-6 produces 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It also boasts impressive fuel efficiency at 23/30 MPG. This Duramax diesel is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, as mentioned earlier, so you can expect it to double as a daily driver just as easily as it can tow your boat to the lake or set out on the open road for a family vacation.
The 5.3-liter V8 produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque while offering two types of cylinder-management systems to improve fuel economy, Active Fuel Economy, and Dynamic Fuel Management. With these two options, buyers can choose between many different powertrains, so you are sure to find the right transmission pairing to fine-tune the balance between efficiency and power with these systems. And if you need even more power, there’s a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine is an excellent option if you tow frequently and heavy, as it is a real workhorse. You’ll find more than enough power for just about any job.
Towing Tech
Another reason to strongly consider a GMC Sierra 1500 is because of its ProGrade Trailering System. While many other features make it stand out from the competition, such as its high resale value, innovative technology, and luxury amenities, this system truly sets it apart from its competitors. You have to see it to believe it, which shows just how impressive the technology is. The illusion from this magical tech comes from the Sierra’s HD series, so you know it is designed for people who tow heavy and tow often. The system features 15 camera angles, which include a transparent trailer view. By merging all of the different camera angles, you are afforded a view straight through the trailer. The trailer still shows as an invisible outline, but you can see directly through to what’s behind you.
A Tailgate Reimagined
The Multipro Tailgate is another example of GMC’s innovative spirit. With this new configuration, you can choose from six different uses for the tailgate, depending on the job. If you want to make it easier to load, there’s a foldable inner gate for easy access. There’s also a setting that helps prevent items from sliding out of the box when you need more space for a tall ladder, for example. If you get tired of jumping up on the gate or climbing up on the tires to get into the bed, there’s a handy full-width step for easy entry and exit. And even if you are carrying a couple of bags of concrete, it can still handle the weight as it is rated to hold up to 375 pounds. Other settings include an inner gate work surface and an inner gate load stop. There’s a setting that allows for the perfect tailgating seat, too, so whether you are working or relaxing, this is a system that has your best interest in mind.
AT4
The AT4 is a great trim level if you are looking for off-road capability as well as the comfort and luxury you would expect from a luxury sedan. Starting with the rugged good looks to match its off-road prowess, you will be impressed by how appropriately outfitted this truck is for hitting the trails. Featuring beefy skid plates, you will have the peace of mind to take on the worst (or best) of conditions. And with upgraded suspension, hill-descent control, and knobby off-road tires, you will be able to venture far off the road. A two-inch lift and Rancho off-road shocks show just how serious it is. Plus, the AT4 features many convenience and luxury amenities. This is a blend of comfort and capability you will not find anywhere else. This trim also features the 6.2-liter V8 so that you will have plenty of power and torque at your disposal. The AT4 trim is also offered as a Carbon Pro Edition, which means that it features a super-tough carbon-fiber pickup bed, exclusive to GMC.
Stretch-Out Space
While it’s roomy in the front seats, it’s even more spacious for the rear passengers. The rear seats can fit three people, and now with the extra room, they can really stretch out in the back. With the recent redesign, an additional 3 inches of space was gained, and so now not only do they have more headroom, long legs can fit much better than in other trucks. The rear outboard seats can also be heated so that everyone will be comfortable in the GMC Sierra. Another benefit of the extra space is the opportunity for storage space. There is the option for a big storage compartment in the center console, and there are also smart side-hinged storage areas in the front of the rear passenger seats. You’ll also appreciate how quiet the interior cab is, making for one of the most pleasant driving experiences in its class.
It seems the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 could even be said to be approaching the dawn of the first perfect truck ever made, as it has the ideal combination of comfort and capability. And, really, what else could you ask from a truck?
