2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review

GMC Sierra 2500HD AT4 Crew Cab Pickup Exterior

GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali Crew Cab Pickup Shown

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2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review

byChristian Wardlaw^{Correspondent
Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at Edmunds and was the first editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.}

Pros

Improved towing and hauling capabilities
Bigger cabs equipped with the latest tech
Numerous trailer-towing technologies to make hauling loads easier
Useful MultiPro tailgate, bed steps and box lighting

Cons

Many cabin pieces are obviously sourced from the less expensive Silverado
Price rises quickly with options

What's new

Completely redesigned for 2020
Significant improvement in maximum towing capacity
New trailer-towing technologies
New model kicks off the fourth Sierra 3500HD generation

Overview

For years, GMC has struggled to keep up with Ford and Ram in the heavy-duty pickup truck towing and hauling competition. Now, with the redesigned 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD, the company fields a legitimate heavy hauler with up to 35,500 pounds of trailering capacity. That's up from a comparatively low 23,100 pounds with the previous-generation Sierra 3500HD.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

Not EPA tested

$250/mo

Avg. Large Truck

Calculate my fuel costs

You'll need the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 engine to handle loads that heavy. It makes the same amount of power as it did last year, but it's married to a new Allison 10-speed automatic transmission that GMC says will help keep the Duramax within its optimal operating range. Furthermore, the Sierra 3500HD's more substantial frame plus improved cooling capacity, thanks to a larger grille and reworked air induction system, contribute to the truck's increased capability.

New technology also improves the GMC's trailering capacity. The 2020 Sierra 3500HD offers an updated ProGrade Trailering system with 15 camera views, including one that allows the driver to virtually see through a trailer for greater visibility and maneuverability. Loading the bed is easier thanks to standard corner-step bumpers and side bed steps, and the available MultiPro tailgate is the equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, supplying six configurations to assist with loading, hauling and working.

Our main issue with the Sierra 3500HD has to do with the interior. Ford and Ram have taken luxury to another level in their heavy-duty trucks, and it'd be nice to see GMC put more design effort into the Sierra's ride comfort and interior quality. But given the truck's many other strengths, it's easy to recommend if you're looking for a heavy-duty truck that's well equipped and highly capable.

Which Sierra 3500HD does Edmunds recommend?

For maximum variety, we recommend the SLE trim level. It's offered with all three cab styles, both single and dual rear-wheel axles, and both the gasoline and diesel V8 engines. The SLE trim also serves as a gateway to important comfort, convenience, safety and trailering upgrades.

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD models

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD buyers have numerous choices to make when selecting a truck. First, you must decide between regular, double (extended) and crew-cab styles and then determine if you require two- or four-wheel drive. Next up: the rear-axle configuration and single or dual wheels. Then you have a choice of the new standard gasoline V8 (401 horsepower, 464 lb-ft) or the 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 engine (445 hp, 910 lb-ft). Once that's settled, you've got five trim levels available to you, ranging from the standard Sierra to the plush Sierra Denali.

As you might expect, the standard specification is light on creature comforts. This is the work truck, but it does include chrome bumpers, LED headlights, a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.

Choose the SLE trim, and the Sierra 3500HD includes an integrated trailer brake controller, cruise control, power windows and remote keyless entry among other features. The SLE is also ready for OnStar and GMC connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot.

If you want SLT, AT4 or Denali trim, you'll need to get a crew-cab version of the Sierra 3500HD. With SLT specification, the truck includes the popular MultiPro tailgate design, as well as digital variable steering assist, upgraded trailering technologies, LED cargo bed lighting and 120-volt power outlets. Comfort improvements include leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a heated tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Sierra 3500HD SLT also has remote engine starting.

Based on SLT trim, the Sierra 3500HD AT4 is ready for serious off-roading thanks to standard 4WD, an off-road suspension, skid plates, a locking rear differential and all-terrain tires. This version of the truck gets a unique look, along with hill start assist, hill descent control and an Off-Road driving mode. The standard head-up display includes an inclinometer, while the high-definition surround-view camera system helps to negotiate tight trails.

Luxury is the focus of the Sierra 3500HD Denali. The Denali features fancier trim, a Bose premium sound system, navigation, wireless smartphone charging, a wide 8-inch driver information center, and front and rear parking sensors. It also comes with a full suite of Driver Alert advanced driving assistance systems.

Also Consider

Build Your 2024 Sierra HD

At a Glance:

6 Colors
2 Trims
6 Packages
$42,000starting MSRP

Build & PriceGMC.com

*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3/5Average

#14 out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the GMC Sierra 3500HD from 2008-2022.}

$1,061/yr

vs. $752/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

0.83x/yr

vs. 0.98x/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

24.7%

vs. 19.9%
for Average Fullsize Truck

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD.

5 (78%)

4 (0%)

3 (11%)

2 (11%)

1 (0%)

4.4

9 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

WHAT A TRUCK

Bill S., 04/06/2020

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A)

I purchased this Denali two weeks ago. I absolutely love this truck. The ride is so smooth and power band is incredible. What a huge difference between my 2008 GMC 2500HD Duramax, its like night and day... I love all the high tech features with the 2020's from the cameras to the front and rear LED lighting. Oh yea forgot about that first of its kind tailgate. Now that's a very …

Heavy Duty tuxedo surpassed expecations

Corey, 08/30/2020

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.6L 8cyl 6A)

In my 3rd year of owning the new 2020 GMC 3500 HD Denali after replacing my 2012 F250. Choose the GMC because I did not care for the new Ford styling. I still can not believe this is a HD 3500. While commuting around town, I think I am in my wife's German SUV because the ride and amenities are excellent. Visibility and Camera system are great and the interior seats comfortable and …

Incredible

Ron, 03/13/2020

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.6L 8cyl 6A)

After waiting for several months and production delays I was finally able to get my hands on a 2020 3500 Denali DRW and I have to say that this truck was well worth the wait. It drives smoother than any truck I've ever owned and the safety features are incredible. I have absolutely no complaints and with it being a Denali there really isn't any more stuff I will need to add. (other than …

Trailer issues

Mario, 09/13/2021

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.6L 8cyl 6A)

Extremely disappointed with my 2020 Denali 3500hd. I own 6 trailers and only 1 works with the "new" trailer integration system. I get trailer not connected display, brake lockup on connecting, flickering lights. Trailers work perfect on other rigs. GM dealership basically said to pound sand and update my trailers to work with their system.

See all 9 reviews of the GMC Sierra 3500HD

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2020 Sierra 3500HD Highlights

Type:

Crew Cab

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$41,200
Engine Type	Gas
Seating	6 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	20,000 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Sierra 3500HD models:

Teen Driver: Standard programmable technology that provides parents of young drivers a driving report card after they use the vehicle.
Automatic Emergency Braking: Automatically brakes the vehicle to avoid a collision or to reduce speed before an unavoidable impact.
Rear Seat Reminder: Detects when a rear door is opened and closed during or just before a trip and helps remind you not to forget about rear occupants.

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2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Ohio.}

Which Sierra 3500HD does Edmunds recommend?

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD.

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

WHAT A TRUCK

Heavy Duty tuxedo surpassed expecations

Incredible

Trailer issues

2020 Sierra 3500HD Highlights

Safety

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2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Ohio.

Which Sierra 3500HD does Edmunds recommend?

2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

WHAT A TRUCK

Heavy Duty tuxedo surpassed expecations

Incredible

Trailer issues

2020 Sierra 3500HD Highlights

Safety

People who viewed this also viewed

Related Used 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD info

Vehicle reviews of used models

Shop similar models

Shop used vehicles in your area

Popular new car reviews and ratings

Research other models of Gmc

Research similar vehicles

Other models

Join Edmunds

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.6L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Ohio.}