2020 Diesel Pickup Truck Showdown: GMC Sierra Duramax vs Ram EcoDiesel
Featured Comparison: In this comprehensive review, we pit the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax against the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, analyze the remarkable Chevrolet Colorado ZR2's dual-purpose capabilities, and test whether the GMC Sierra 2500 AT4 truly rivals the legendary Ram Power Wagon.
The Great Diesel Debate: Sierra 1500 Duramax vs Ram 1500 EcoDiesel
The 2020 model year brought significant updates to both the GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax and Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, making this the most competitive diesel half-ton pickup truck market in history. After extensive testing in various conditions including highway cruising, mountain towing, and light off-roading, we've identified key differences that will help buyers make an informed decision.
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Engine Performance and Efficiency
Both trucks deliver impressive diesel performance but with distinct characteristics:
- GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax: 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 producing 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque
- Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 making 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque
While the Ram holds a slight torque advantage, the Sierra's power band feels more accessible during everyday driving. EPA fuel economy estimates favor the Ram slightly at 22/32/26 mpg (city/highway/combined) versus the Sierra's 20/23/21 mpg.
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Towing and Payload Capacity
| Specification | GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax | Ram 1500 EcoDiesel |
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs | 12,560 lbs |
| Max Payload | 1,940 lbs | 1,840 lbs |
| Trailer Sway Control | Standard | Optional |
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Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: Mastering Both Worlds
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 continues to impress as one of the few midsize pickups that delivers exceptional off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort. Our engineering deep dive reveals the secrets behind its dual-purpose success:
Suspension Innovation
Chevrolet's Multimatic DSSV dampers are the ZR2's magic ingredient. These position-sensitive shocks automatically adjust damping force based on:
- Terrain conditions
- Suspension travel
- Vehicle speed
The result is 8.9 inches of ground clearance for rock crawling that transforms into a compliant highway ride when back on pavement.
Heavy-Duty Off-Road Challenge: Sierra 2500 AT4 vs Ram Power Wagon
GMC's Sierra 2500 AT4 enters the three-quarter-ton off-road arena as a purported Ram 2500 Power Wagon competitor. Our real-world testing reveals where it succeeds and where it falls short:
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Key Off-Road Features Compared
- Sierra 2500 AT4: 2-inch factory lift, Rancho shocks, electronic locking rear differential, skid plates
- Ram Power Wagon: 3-inch lift, disconnecting sway bar, front/rear lockers, 12,000-lb Warn winch
While the AT4 performs admirably on moderate trails, the Power Wagon's dedicated off-road hardware gives it clear advantages in extreme conditions. The AT4 shines as a more balanced choice for buyers who need serious towing capability (14,500 lbs max) with occasional off-road excursions.
Buyer's Guide: Which Diesel Pickup is Right For You?
Based on our testing, here's our recommendation matrix:
Best For Towing: Ram 1500 EcoDiesel
With class-leading towing capacity and innovative features like the available 360-degree camera system for trailer alignment, the Ram excels as a tow vehicle.
Best Daily Driver: GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax
The Sierra's refined cabin, superior noise isolation, and intuitive infotainment make it the better choice for regular commuting.
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Best Off-Road Performance: Ram 2500 Power Wagon
Despite GMC's claims, the Power Wagon remains the undisputed king of factory-off-road heavy-duty trucks.
Most Versatile: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
For buyers who need genuine off-road capability in a manageable size with comfortable daily driving manners, the ZR2 stands alone.
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The Future of Diesel Pickups
As emissions standards tighten and electric vehicle technology advances, these 2020 models may represent the peak of diesel-powered light trucks. Their combination of efficiency, capability, and refinement has never been better, making this an excellent time to consider a diesel pickup if your needs align with their strengths.
