2020 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 carried over from its 2019 redesign, maintaining the appealing straight lines and crisp angles reminiscent of the classic GMT 400 trucks. Its six trims—Base, SLE, Elevation, SLT, Denali, and AT4—offered varying levels of features and styling. The Base model included basics like a V6 engine, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Successive trims added more luxury and utility, with the SLT and Denali incorporating chrome accents, larger wheels, and advanced tech features. The AT4 trim, which was driven for our review, showcased off-road enhancements and a rugged yet upscale interior.

In comparison, the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty, particularly in its Limited trim, exuded luxury with plush leather seats and a high-end audio system. The truck's exterior gleamed with chrome accents and polished wheels, embodying a blend of purpose and elegance. The interior space was vast and thoughtful, with subtle yet premium touches like real wood and aluminum trim. Despite its size, the F-350's cabin was user-friendly, emphasizing comfort and storage.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 offered a range of five engines. Starting with the 4.3-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and extending to the powerful 6.2-liter V8 generating 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, there were engines to suit every need. Our AT4 model featured the 6.2-liter V8, which delivered impressive acceleration and towing capabilities up to 12,100 pounds. The truck's off-road prowess was enhanced by all-terrain tires, upgraded suspension, and hill-descent control. However, this came at the cost of a rougher on-road ride, especially with the AT4's specific setup.

For the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty, efficiency wasn't a primary focus due to the absence of EPA ratings for heavy-duty trucks. Despite this, the 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 performed admirably, averaging 16.5 mpg over a week of testing. This engine boasted a remarkable 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, ensuring vigorous acceleration and towing strength. The F-350's off-road performance was notable with the Tremor package, adding features like a front suspension lift and 35-inch off-road tires. In daily driving, the F-350's adaptive steering and robust brakes required some driver acclimation but were effective overall.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500's configuration included single, double, and crew cab options with varying bed lengths. Our crew cab test model featured a carbon-fiber bed to save weight and improve fuel economy. The innovative MultiPro tailgate offered multiple functionalities, including a step and bed extender. The truck's interior was packed with storage options, and the rear seats folded to provide additional space for valuable items.

The 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty also offered ample cargo capabilities, but accessing the high bed necessitated additional steps. The BoxLink system facilitated cargo securing, aided by the optional spray-in bedliner. The crew cab's interior space was generous, with power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats and plenty of storage options. Rear-seat comfort was impressive, providing ample legroom and added conveniences like heated outboard seats.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500's infotainment was straightforward, featuring clear graphics and tactile controls. The AT4 trim added features like a head-up display, wireless charging, and multiple USB ports. The Sierra’s technology balance favored functionality over the flashiness of larger screens seen in some competitors.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty's tech was centered around the Sync 3 infotainment system on an 8-inch screen. Although Sync 3 offered features like smartphone integration, navigation, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, it lagged behind in screen size compared to future models expected to feature Ford's Sync 4 system with a 12-inch display. The F-350’s screen size impacted the effectiveness of its advanced towing and camera systems, which benefit from larger displays for better visibility.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 included standard features like a reversing camera and full airbag coverage. Available safety enhancements on our AT4 model included a surround-view camera, parking sensors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The innovative rear camera mirror provided a digital image to improve rear visibility.

In the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty, safety was emphasized through its robust structure and considerable weight. Available driver-assistance features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the size and weight necessitated greater responsibility from drivers to ensure safety for other road users.