The 2019 Ram 2500 HD Just Got Some Serious Competition In the Form of the 2020 GMC Sierra HD

GMC has revealed the new 2020 Sierra HD, following hot on the heels of the 2019 Ram 2500 HD that dropped at the Detroit Auto Show last week. Big torque, a big stance, and endless capability are the norms here, but how do these two shape up?

The 2020 GMC Sierra HD Is Loaded For The Long Haul

As we all know, trucks like the 2020 GMC Sierra HD are built to do work, and as such, this latest diesel-driven workhorse is billed as the most capable heavy-duty truck to ever carry a GMC badge.

Backing that claim is a host of innovative digital technology that allows the 2020 GMC Sierra HD to tow and haul even better than the numbers would let on.

For example, GMC is offering the ProGrade Trailering system, which comes with an astounding 15 different camera views, as well as a “transparent trailer view” that allows the driver to see behind whatever he or she is hauling.

There’s also an optional smart trailer feature that will fully sync with compatible trailers, allowing you to test the lights, run an electrical diagnostic, view the trailer’s tire pressure and tire temperature, issue maintenance reminders, and run through a departure checklist.

Additional details include a Rear Camera Mirror, plus an automatic park brake to keep the truck stationary when hitching, a hill hold feature, an integrated trailer brake, trailer sway control, and automatic grade braking with diesel exhaust braking.

To help run it all, GMC is offering an optional 15-inch heads-up display.

Outside of the digital bits, there’s also added analog functionality with a six-function tailgate, and a lower lift-in height compared to the previous model.

Under the hood, the 2020 GMC Sierra HD runs a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo diesel powerplant, which whips out 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. Helping it achieve those numbers is an improved intake design and a large hood scoop.

Routing the power towards the pavement is a new Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, which is a first for the HD pickup segment, and should prove to enhance the Sierra’s overall efficiency.

As for specs, GMC claims the Sierra HD can tow “well in excess” of 30,000 pounds. We’re still waiting on exact figures, but we expect them to be competitive with similar products from Ram.

Those who enjoy the rough stuff can get improved off-roading chops with the Sierra AT4 Heavy Duty edition, which comes equipped with new shocks, skid plates, and an Eaton locking rear differential, plus a dedicated off-roading mode. There are 18-inch wheel as standard on this bad boy, complete with all-terrain rubber, while 20-inch wheels are optional equipment.

In terms of exterior goodies, the 2020 GMC Sierra HD comes with new LED headlights up front, as well as a bigger grille. Step into the cabin, and you’ll find more space for cargo and passengers, with the the best-in-class front headroom and legroom to boot (the current model offers 45.3 inches for front legroom). The longer wheelbase undoubtedly helps with this. Leather upholstery, open-pore wood panels, and aluminum trim keep it feeling fancy.

The 2020 GMC Sierra HD goes on sale later in 2019, with pricing announced at a later date. For reference, the current GMC Sierra 2500 HD starts at $38,200.

Ram Wants A Word…

Obviously, we expect a good amount of additional information on the GMC before it goes on sale later this year, but for now, we can check out the competition from Ram.

Take a peek behind the grille, and you’ll find an updated 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel making an impressive 1,000 pound-feet of torque, besting the Sierra HD’s 910 pound-feet. Ram, however, still uses a six-speed automatic for the transmission duties.

Complementing the tremendous torque, the Ram comes with an updated body and chassis, the former of which cuts 143 pounds from the curb weight compared to the previous model.

Properly equipped, the Ram 3500 can pull an impressive 35,100 pounds and deliver a payload of 6,570 pounds.

The Ram HD also gets an optional rear air suspension, which helps greatly with loading and unloading. Inside the cabin is a 5.0-inch infotainment screen as standard, while an 8.4-inch unit and 12.0-inch unit are optional.

For those looking for more, Ram is offering this model in six unique trim levels.

How Do They Line Up?

First impressions give the technology advantage to the GMC, although the Ram might HD might have the extra goodness under the hood, at least in terms of raw numbers.

We’ll undoubtedly do a full comparison at a later date.

For now, what do you think of the new 2020 GMC Sierra HD? Let us know in the comments section below.