2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2019 GMC Sierra 1500

Driving the redesigned 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 through various terrains, it was a clear head-turner with its chrome-adorned exterior. Bigger inside and outside compared to its predecessor, the Sierra aimed to exude a more dominant presence. Opinions varied on whether this masculine display effectively communicated strength or revealed a touch of fragility. The Denali trim, while intended to be the epitome of style and luxury, was often seen as excessively flashy. The oversized grille, silver front skid plate, and bulky running light surrounds made a bold statement, albeit an arguably garish one.

Interior-wise, the Sierra carried forth an unpolished aesthetic despite notable material improvements, such as premium leather, open-pore wood trim, and real aluminum accents. Seams and varying surface topography contributed to a cluttered appearance although functionality remained high. Buttons and knobs were easy to operate, even with work gloves on. Notably, the 2019 Sierra offered a versatile selection including Base, SLE, SLT, and Denali trims, along with new options like the Elevation and off-roading AT4.

Conversely, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty's updates were more subtle yet notable to loyal Ford enthusiasts. Less bling and more practical elements defined its new design. The front bumper featured more black-painted areas while a revised grille and sleeker headlights delivered a refined yet robust look. Available in various trims—XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited—the F-250's appearance adapted significantly based on the selected trim.

Inside, the F-250 aimed more for a no-nonsense, practical interior. It featured logical control layouts and ample storage spaces but often felt cold and utilitarian, contrasting with the comparatively comfortable and luxurious Sierra Denali. The XL trim had basic yet necessary amenities, while moving through the trims added features like leather upholstery, advanced navigation systems, and luxurious accents. Furthermore, the King Ranch and Platinum trims provided specific stylistic and comfort enhancements designed to cater to different preferences.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, equipped with the top-tier 6.2-liter V8 engine, boasted 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine, coupled with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Autotrac 4WD, delivered swift acceleration and smooth performance. While towing and hauling capacities were strong at 12,200 pounds and 2,240 pounds respectively, these numbers fell short compared to direct competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. Fuel efficiency was managed through Dynamic Fuel Management, although real-world tests indicated an overall fuel economy of 16.3 mpg.

Riders sat high above the ground, making for a commanding driving position but challenging distance judgement due to the massive hood. Despite initial brake pedal calibration issues, the Adaptive Ride Control suspension offered a smooth ride, slightly hampered by the optional 22-inch wheels. Long-life brake pads ensured reliable stopping power once familiarized with the system.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered a range of engines, including a standard 6.2-liter gasoline V8 producing 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, a new 7.3-liter gas V8 with 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, and a potent 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 churning out 475 horsepower and a staggering 1,050 lb-ft of torque. The gas engines used a new 10-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel stuck with a six-speed automatic. With proper equipment, the F-250 could tow up to 30,000 pounds, showing its capacity for heavy-duty tasks.

Though the truck's suspension was designed to handle significant loads, it resulted in a very bumpy ride when unloaded. The FX4 off-road package and the new Tremor package elevated its off-road performance with enhanced shocks and underbody protection, although these packages primarily catered to those seeking serious off-road adventures.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali with the Ultimate Package featured power side steps for easier access, leading to a cabin with oversized, supportive, and comfortable seating. Heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel were part of the Denali’s luxury suite. Interior space was ample, with the newly redesigned model providing three extra inches of backseat legroom in crew cab models. Combined with rear air vents and USB ports, rear passengers enjoyed enhanced comfort.

Cargo-wise, the Sierra’s new bed was deeper and wider, offering expanded volume without sacrificing strength, boasting a 50% stronger steel floor. The innovative MultiPro Tailgate added functionality with six configurations, making loading and unloading more efficient. Enhancements, like the larger rear Corner Step bumper cutouts and 12 cargo tie-downs, provided practical usability alongside the optional factory spray-in bedliner and CarbonPro cargo box liner.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty came in Regular Cab, SuperCab, and Crew Cab configurations with options for 6-foot-9-inch or 8-foot beds. The cabin was vast, with ample deep storage solutions and a massive center console for large items. SuperCrew and Crew Cab models featured rear seats that folded up to reveal a load floor, ideal for securing valuable equipment safely inside the cab.

In terms of payload and towing, the F-250 significantly outperformed the Sierra. With the diesel engine, it could handle up to 30,000 pounds of towing, compared to the Sierra’s 12,200-pound limit. However, the Sierra had a slight edge with a higher payload capacity of 2,240 pounds versus the F-250’s heavy-duty focus.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 sported advanced technology across its trim levels. The updated infotainment systems were more responsive and visually appealing, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and GMC Connected Services. The Denali trim added an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bose premium sound system, and a head-up display (HUD), a first in light-duty trucks, offering clear speed and navigation info. Key safety and convenience technologies included a Rear Camera Mirror and a comprehensive camera system enhancing towing and maneuvering capabilities.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty’s base XL came with basic yet modern tech features like an AM/FM/MP3 radio, Bluetooth, and a USB-C port. The XLT ramped this up with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, offering a seven-speaker setup, SiriusXM radio, and additional USB-C ports. Across all trims, FordPass Connect provided a WiFi hotspot and remote vehicle controls via smartphone. Higher trims added premium comforts such as massaging seats, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 was available with extensive safety features depending on the trim and packages. The Driver Alert Package 1 added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The Driver Alert Package 2 included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. Notably missing were adaptive cruise control and full-speed-range automatic braking. The Truck’s Teen Driver and Rear Seat Reminder systems provided additional safety for families.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered standard safety features like front and side airbags, trailer sway control, hill start assist, and AdvanceTrac with roll stability control. Optional features encompassed forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additional safety options included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. Neither truck had been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but the array of available features was extensive in both models.