The 2020 GMC Sierra HD has a one-inch-lower bed lift-in height compared to its predecessor model, providing easier loading and fifth-wheel and goose-neck trailer hitching. New are cargo bed side steps on all box styles, located in front of the rear wheel openings that complement integrated CornerSteps in the rear bumper to improve access to the cargo area.  -  Photo by Mike Antich.

The 2020 GMC Sierra HD has a one-inch-lower bed lift-in height compared to its predecessor model, providing easier loading and fifth-wheel and goose-neck trailer hitching. New are cargo bed side steps on all box styles, located in front of the rear wheel openings that complement integrated CornerSteps in the rear bumper to improve access to the cargo area.

Photo by Mike Antich.

General Motors introduced the all-new 2020 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty (HD) pickup, which goes on sale later this year in 2500HD and 3500HD dual rear wheel and single rear wheel configurations. It has a new architecture with larger proportions, making it taller and longer with more room for cargo and occupants.  

The 2020 Sierra HD is powered by the Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel engine, which offers high torque, high power, low noise, and exceptional durability. For the 2020 Sierra HD, the Duramax generates 445 horsepower and 910 lb.-ft. of torque. 

Also introduced in the new Sierra HD is an all-new 10-speed Allison automatic transmission — the first-ever offered in the heavy-duty pickup segment. The 10-speed transmission has closer gear spacing that allows the engine to operate in an optimal range at all times with varying load and terrain conditions.

Compared to the prior model, the new 2020 Sierra Heavy Duty has:

  • A longer wheelbase, a taller, more dominant hood line and taller overall height.
  • A larger grille and complementing functional hood scoop to feed an advanced cooling system for the Duramax turbo-diesel. 
  • Class-leading heavy-duty cargo bed volume and 12 corner tie-downs with a new, available 120-volt power outlet.
  • One-inch-lower bed lift-in height compared to the 2019 Sierra Heavy Duty, providing easier loading and fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailer hitching.
  • New, segment-exclusive cargo bed side steps on all box styles, located in front of the rear wheel openings, that complement integrated CornerSteps in the rear bumper to improve access to the cargo area.
  • MultiPro, a six-function tailgate that allows easier loading, unloading, and bed access, is available on all trim levels.

Enhanced Trailering and Towing

The bigger frame, stronger propulsion, and smarter technologies are expected to deliver dramatically greater towing capacity than previous models, well in excess of 30,000 pounds. 

The Sierra HD has enhanced trailering capabilities that include an enhanced ProGrade Trailering system featuring available 15 camera views, including a segment-first transparent trailer view to virtually see through a trailer in tow. This helps optimize the driver’s view around the truck and compatible trailers to provide added confidence when towing. The revolutionary transparent trailer feature uses the tailgate-mounted camera and an available accessory camera mounted on the rear of the trailer. The resulting display helps the driver to virtually see through the trailer, a benefit when navigating parking lots, merging into traffic or making tight turns.

The ProGrade Trailering System includes an in-vehicle Trailering App with Trailer Light Test, Trailer Electrical Diagnostics, Trailer Tire Pressure and Temperature Monitoring, Pre-Maintenance Reminders, and Departure Checklist.

Related Photos: 2020 GMC Sierra HD Unveiling

Originally posted on Automotive Fleet

About the author
Mike Antich

Mike Antich

Former Editor and Associate Publisher

Mike Antich covered fleet management and remarketing for more than 20 years and was inducted into the Fleet Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Global Fleet of Hal in 2022. He also won the Industry Icon Award, presented jointly by the IARA and NAAA industry associations.

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