2020 RAM 1500 vs 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
$29,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2020 RAM 1500
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
$29,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$29,600

MSRP

$28,200

Average price

$37,506

Average price

$31,935

Listings

2162

Listings

3936

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard

2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews Summary

It’s no surprise that trucks have improved and evolved over the years. After all, think about an average sedan from the early 1980s compared with a modern 2020 vehicle. Yet because pickup trucks are largely confined to a common shape, many shoppers are still surprised to see how nice they have become. This is especially true if your memory of trucks includes a vinyl bench seat.

Modern trucks heavily incorporate utility-minded innovations. Cargo-management tools, side steps, and bed steps make for a more useful vehicle. Under the hood, turbocharging has made V6 and even 4-cylinder engines usable, delivering the power of the larger engines they aim to supplant. And finally, cabins have become nicer and more comfortable than previously imagined for a pickup.

This evolution speaks to how trucks get used as family vehicles that can also do work. There are the work trucks, but there are also trucks like the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500, which has many of the creature comforts of SUVs and crossovers. It says “I want a truck, but I could probably be used as a minivan.”

But somewhere in the middle sits Sierra's AT4 trim. It’s comfortable, sure, but it’s also capable. Does that make it a good fit for both the worksite and the daily commute?

2020 RAM 1500 Reviews Summary

A full redesign in 2019 left a significant bit of tech on the table for the increasingly popular Ram 1500: the EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine. Ram was once the only option for a half-ton diesel pickup, but emissions certification problems resulted in Ram pulling the diesel engine a few years ago. The engineers at Ram have been hard at work updating it ever since. Although the EcoDiesel wasn’t ready for 2019, it’s now available to any 2020 Ram 1500 trim, so it seems it was well worth the wait. With 80% new parts, the EcoDiesel's improvements to power, efficiency, and delivery all mean that Ram is fighting hard to change minds about America’s least-loved engine type.

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Engine

3.6L 305 hp V6

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

3

Horsepower

Horsepower

305 hp @ 6400 rpm

MPG City

16

MPG City

17

MPG Highway

21

MPG Highway

25
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
$29,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 RAM 1500
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
$29,600MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 RAM 1500
$28,200MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$29,600
$28,200
Average price
$37,506
$31,935
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.6
4.7
Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

7.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Summary

It’s no surprise that trucks have improved and evolved over the years. After all, think about an average sedan from the early 1980s compared with a modern 2020 vehicle. Yet because pickup trucks are largely confined to a common shape, many shoppers are still surprised to see how nice they have become. This is especially true if your memory of trucks includes a vinyl bench seat.

Modern trucks heavily incorporate utility-minded innovations. Cargo-management tools, side steps, and bed steps make for a more useful vehicle. Under the hood, turbocharging has made V6 and even 4-cylinder engines usable, delivering the power of the larger engines they aim to supplant. And finally, cabins have become nicer and more comfortable than previously imagined for a pickup.

This evolution speaks to how trucks get used as family vehicles that can also do work. There are the work trucks, but there are also trucks like the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500, which has many of the creature comforts of SUVs and crossovers. It says “I want a truck, but I could probably be used as a minivan.”

But somewhere in the middle sits Sierra's AT4 trim. It’s comfortable, sure, but it’s also capable. Does that make it a good fit for both the worksite and the daily commute?

A full redesign in 2019 left a significant bit of tech on the table for the increasingly popular Ram 1500: the EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine. Ram was once the only option for a half-ton diesel pickup, but emissions certification problems resulted in Ram pulling the diesel engine a few years ago. The engineers at Ram have been hard at work updating it ever since. Although the EcoDiesel wasn’t ready for 2019, it’s now available to any 2020 Ram 1500 trim, so it seems it was well worth the wait. With 80% new parts, the EcoDiesel's improvements to power, efficiency, and delivery all mean that Ram is fighting hard to change minds about America’s least-loved engine type.
Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle
3.6L 305 hp V6
Drive Train
4X2
4X2
Seating Capacity
3
3
Horsepower
305 hp @ 6400 rpm
MPG City
16
17
MPG Highway
21
25
Look and feel
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
8/10
2020 RAM 1500
8/10
The evolution of pickup trucks is exemplified by models like the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500, which blends utility innovations and comfort akin to SUVs and crossovers, positioning itself as a family vehicle with work capabilities. The Sierra's AT4 trim strikes a balance between daily commute comfort and worksite readiness. Conversely, the 2020 RAM 1500, with its reintroduced EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine, targets efficiency and power, reflecting RAM's dedication to overcoming the challenges associated with diesel engines and offering versatility across all trims.
Performance
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
9/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10
Performance ratings from CarGurus experts place the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 at a 9 out of 10, surpassing the 2020 RAM 1500's 7 out of 10. The Sierra offers a range of five engines, including a 4.3-liter V6, a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, and a 6.2-liter V8, providing a blend of power and efficiency with a towing capacity of up to 12,100 pounds. The RAM 1500 counters with a base 3.6-liter V6 equipped with a mild-hybrid system for improved fuel economy and a 5.7-liter V8 for robust towing capabilities, but its EcoDiesel engine, despite leading in torque, sometimes disappoints in drivability and fuel efficiency.
Form and function
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
10/10
2020 RAM 1500
8/10
The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 excels in form and function, earning a perfect score of 10 out of 10, while the 2020 RAM 1500 is rated at 8 out of 10. The Sierra distinguishes itself with innovative features like the MultiPro tailgate and a carbon-fiber bed that not only reduces weight for better fuel efficiency but also adds to the truck's durability. The availability of configurations from a single cab with a long bed to a full 4-door crew cab offers versatility to meet various user needs. Notably, the Sierra's new carbon-fiber bed and the MultiPro tailgate, which introduces a six-way functionality, including a bed-extender and easy steps into the truck bed, highlight GMC's focus on combining utility with innovation. The RAM 1500, known for its substantial interior space and comfort, especially in the rear with enough room for adults and reclining seats in higher trims, also impresses with its utility features. It boasts over 5.3 cubic feet of interior storage, setting a high bar for in-cabin organization and convenience. This massive storage capacity nearly doubles that of its closest competitor, demonstrating RAM's commitment to functional design. However, achieving the RAM 1500's maximum towing capacity requires precise specification, which may limit the truck's overall functionality for some buyers.
Technology
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
9/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10
Technology ratings favor the Sierra with a 9 out of 10, compared to the RAM's 7 out of 10. GMC's Sierra boasts an intuitive infotainment system with clear graphics and tactile controls, enhanced by features like HUD and wireless charging in higher trims. RAM 1500's technology highlight is its 12-inch touchscreen and the Uconnect system, alongside the innovative eTorque mild hybrid system, offering a modern and connected driving experience.
Safety
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
8/10
2020 RAM 1500
9/10
Safety assessments give the RAM 1500 an edge with a 9 out of 10 rating, surpassing the Sierra 1500's 8 out of 10. The Sierra offers a comprehensive suite of safety features including a unique rear camera mirror. Meanwhile, the RAM 1500 has achieved recognition as a Top Safety Pick Plus by the IIHS for models equipped with active safety features and LED lights, a testament to its commitment to safety.
Cost Effectiveness
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
6/10
2020 RAM 1500
7/10

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2020 RAM 1500 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the GMC Sierra 1500 is the recommended choice for its blend of performance, technology, and utility, despite the RAM 1500's strong showing in safety and cost effectiveness.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2020 RAM 1500 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the GMC Sierra 1500 is the recommended choice for its blend of performance, technology, and utility, despite the RAM 1500's strong showing in safety and cost effectiveness.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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