Introducing the Bold, Redesigned 2020 GMC Acadia

The 2020 GMC Acadia has undergone a refresh since its complete redesign that occurred in 2017, and has arrived for our Charlotte area buyers. From the striking new front end to the all new rear end, or the first ever Acadia AT4 model engineered for adventure, Liberty BuickGMC is excited give you the run-down on how you will see yourself in the new 2020 GMC Acadia coming to our showroom this fall.

The kids are at home or heading back from camp, but school is just a few days out from coming back into session. Some of us are wrapping up those sweet vacations and plans and going back to the grind of work and day-to-day life. Summer is in session, but fall is around the corner, and here in Charlotte-Matthews, we’re looking ahead to these changing times.

Ready for 2020 vision?

For many, August is a month of change and clarity, and arguably a worthy competitor of January 1^st. Some New Year’s Resolutions don’t pan out, but August is over halfway through the year and a great time to consider taking up new resolutions, goals, and ideas. August is also the time of year that we start getting exclusive looks at the line-up of 2020 models heading into our dealership this fall. Whether you are looking for greater reliability, peace of mind, power, or style, the 2020 GMC Acadia should be what you set your sights on heading into fall 2019.

The 2020 GMC Acadia delivers a surprisingly powerful performance, and a distinctive bold new look, despite its redesign merely three years ago in 2017. Looking into the 2020 Acadia, GMC has clearly valued great attention to detail when it comes to every inch of design of this mid-size SUV. With the 2020 GMC Acadia, you will be sure to receive a premium driving experience, whether you choose the Acadia or the first ever 2020 Acadia AT4.

At a glance, the 2020 Acadia will catch your eye for its:

• New bolder styling with a redesigned hood and grille
• New LED headlamps and taillamps with signature C-shape lighting
• Authentic materials throughout, including available real wood accents
• Available 20" aluminum wheels
• Available heated, power-adjustable, power-folding outside mirrors

In fact, the vice president of Global GMC, Duncan Aldred, described the 2020 Acadia as, “…stylish, functional and capable with more of the smart convenience and connectivity features that customers rely on every day. And with GMC’s signature refinement at its core, the new Acadia advances the brand’s commitment to offering premium vehicles for discerning crossover customers.”

Does the 2020 Acadia bring more than a facelift in the newest refresh?

Of course, the 2020 Acadia is not vain with just impressive outer appearances. GMC has ensured that what’s on the inside counts just as much, with:

• Available 3.6L V6 engine with 310 horsepower
• New available 2.0L Turbo engine
• New 9-speed automatic transmission
• New Stop/Start technology with deactivation switch

Under the hood, the 2020 Acadia continues with a 193 horsepower, 2.5-liter engine and the 310 horsepower, 3.6-liter engine, but also gains an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder engine with a new nine-speed automatic suspension on the Acadia SLT and Acadia Denali models. Producing a stunning 237 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, this engine is designed to provide the perfect blend of power and efficiency, along with premium refinement.  The engine is rated at a GMC-estimated 230 horsepower (172 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm).

The 2020 Acadia is optimizing the performance for varied driving demands through:

• High valve lift for maximum power
• Low valve lift for a greater balance of power and efficiency
• Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) that disables two of the cylinders in light load conditions to optimize efficiency

Reliability for the 2019-2020 school year (and years to come)

A modern vehicle can be as forward-thinking and connected as you are, which is why the 2020 Acadia keeps you up to date and on the go. The Acadia is engineered to help you drive with peace of mind, even at maximum capacity.

Whether carpooling to work, serving as the personal Uber to the children as they race from school, sports practice, music lessons, or visiting family locally around the Carolinas or taking long road trips, rest assured that the Acadia is always performing at its best.

This time of the year can be chaotic for families as they head back to school and get back into the swing of new schedules and priorities. The 2020 Acadia refresh has introduced even more cutting edge technology and design to make your driving safer and more efficient. Check these out:

• New available 6" diagonal color Head-Up Display
• New available Rear Camera Mirror
• New Electronic Precision Shift system
• Available Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Available Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
• Active Noise Cancellation
• Rear Seat Reminder

The Next Generation GMC Infotainment system incorporates an 8-inch color touch screen (with a new and improved user interface from the 2017 redesign), hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto and Apple Car Play, as well as, an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot which can provide connectivity for up to seven devices. Your passengers will love being able to catch up on social media, share their favorite new song, or search that urgent Google search-worthy question facing debate during the ride home.

Certain models can be equipped with embedded navigation that incorporates Cloud connectivity, meaning you’ll experience improved real-time traffic updates or migrate driver profiles, so no more fighting over changing radio station presets or other vehicle preferences between drivers.

On the Go, and Looking Better than Ever

With a powerful performance and a bold new look, the 2020 Acadia mid-size SUV offers functional versatility and intelligent technology for a premium driving experience.

The 2020 Acadia has ample and stylish cargo space that can accommodate all the equipment that comes with your busy life.

How will the 2020 Acadia make your life easier? The Acadia certainly delivers with the following:

• Three rows of seating with third-row 50/50 split bench
• Smart Slide second-row seating
• Fold-flat second- and third-row seats
• Seating options for 6 or 7 passengers
• New large pass-through under-console storage
• Available hands-free power programmable lift gate

 Looking for more of an off-the-pavement type of adventure? Look no further.

In 2020, GMC is introducing the first ever Acadia AT4. Not only does it bring impressive off-road performance to the already powerful and bold Acadia, but it also provides an adventurous design inspired by outdoor lifestyles on the exterior and interior. There’s also:

• Advanced twin-clutch AWD system
• Powerful 3.6L V6 engine
• 9-Speed automatic transmission
• Traction Select System
• Exclusive AT4 17" wheels with all-terrain tires

• Exclusive AT4 grille and black chrome exterior accents
• Black outside mirrors and gloss-black roof rails
• Exclusive interior with AT4 badging
• AT4 heavy-duty floor mats and cargo mat
• Available cargo management system

The AT4 model line incorporates an active, athletic spirit into its design, from its distinct and exclusive black chrome finished grille design, gloss black roof rails, black mirror, caps, and a black chrome tail lamp accent panel, to the 17-inch wheels finished in black chrome (also, exclusive only to the AT4) with all-terrain standard tires. The interior doesn’t disappoint with an extension of style into the cabin with dark chrome interior accents, and Jet Black or Kalahari leather-appointed seats.

The Acadia AT4 offers a five-passenger seating configuration, alongside a Cargo Management System that can provide additional storage flexibility within the cargo area.

Drive with confidence: Safety and Prevention Technologies

Every time you get behind the wheel of a 2020 GMC Acadia, you can drive with confidence knowing that you and your passengers are safe. The Driver Alert package, available on Acadia SLE and standard on Acadia SLT, AT4, and Denali, includes:

• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert: Provides the driver with an illuminated warning in the side view mirrors before and during a lane change maneuver if a moving vehicle is detected in or rapidly approaching the driver’s blind zones.
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: When in Reverse, Rear Cross Traffic Alert can provide alerts to help the driver avoid colliding with approaching detected left or right cross-traffic, such as when backing out of a crowded parking space or driveway with side obstructions.
• Rear Park Assist: This can help drivers avoid certain objects when backing up at low speeds. Rear Park Assist may not detect all children, pedestrians, bicyclists, animals or objects below the bumper. Drivers should remember to always check the area around the vehicle before backing up and make sure the Rear Vision Camera lens is kept clean of mud, dirt, and snow.

The Driver Alert Package II, which is available on Acadia SLT and AT4 models and standard on Acadia Denali, builds off the Driver Alert I package by adding:

• Automatic Emergency Braking: In some emergency low-speed front-end collision situations, this feature can help reduce crash severity or even help avoid it by either applying the brakes automatically if the driver has not already done so, or enhancing the driver’s braking.
• Forward Collision Alert: This system can warn drivers of a possible front-end collision situation with a vehicle they are following.
• Front Pedestrian Braking: In some emergency front-end collision situations, the available Front Pedestrian Braking feature can help reduce injury or avoid the collision with pedestrians by applying the brakes automatically or enhancing the driver’s braking.
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: Provides gentle steering wheel input and alerts to help prevent drivers from unintentionally drifting out of their intended lane.
• Intellibeam headlamps: High-beam headlamps can automatically be switched on when it is dark enough and when no other traffic is present, and then turned off when conditions warrant, such as when another vehicle is approaching.
• Front and Rear Park Assist: This can help drivers avoid certain objects in front or behind the vehicle’s path during low-speed parking.
• Safety Alert Seat: Intuitively communicates the direction of a possible collision threat by pulsing the corresponding sides of the driver’s seat.

 The 2020 GMC Acadia at Liberty Buick GMC

If you’re looking for a stylish, capable, and impeccably-refined midsize SUV, consider the new 2020 GMC Acadia. The prices of the 2020 Acadia remain unknown, but will likely have mild increases over the current 2019 models, which range from $33,995 to $48,695. Look for the 2020 Acadia to arrive on our lot this fall, 2019.  

Can’t wait until the 2020 model is here? We’ve got you covered

Currently, we have the 2019 Acadia, Acadia Denali, and Terrain Denali available. Choose your build, view our inventory, and request a quote today! Our team of Acadia enthusiasts is well-equipped to answer any questions that you may have about this capable SUV.

-Tayler Green

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Bridging the Gap: the 2020 Buick Encore GX

Since they first broke into the luxury automotive industry, Buick has made a name for themselves in terms of quality and user experience. Because of this, so many individuals want to add a Buick to their garage! Since it is a luxury vehicle, many feel that this dream is unattainable, or that Buick just does not offer the right vehicle for them, but with more and more Buick models being released, that dream of luxury could become a reality. With the recent introduction of the Buick Encore GX, many are starting to wonder if this could be the smooth-riding, power-inducing, and sweet ride they have been dreaming of.

Why Buick is adding to their lineup

By releasing the Encore GX, Buick has successfully captured drivers in small, compact and midsize sport utility vehicles (SUVs). This revolutionary vehicle bridges the gap between the Encore and Envision in Buick’s SUV lineup. Considered one of the best small (or compact) options for SUV lovers, the new Encore has features that change the way drivers view safety and specifications, for a price incomparable to other SUVs on the market.

With consumer demands becoming more intense in today’s marketplace, automakers are forced to diversify their vehicle lineups. They do this since there is so much existing competition in the market; rather than letting a consumer buy another vehicle, they step in to fill the consumers’ needs. By releasing the Encore GX and “filling” their lineup, Buick is taking another step in the same regard.

The new 2020 Buick Encore GX is meant to give consumers another choice when choosing a Buick vehicle. Once it is officially released into the lineup, it means Buick will be offering four premium SUVs across their consumer segments, making them a leader in the automotive industry.

About the Encore GX

First unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show, the Encore GX holds true to Buick’s language style, including a chrome body that follows the curvature of the side glass windows, blending into the rear hatch and oversized tail lights; not to mention what brings it all together at the face: the large chrome grill that proudly sports the Buick logo. With all of these stylistic features, the Encore GX undoubtedly lives up to Buick’s reputation for quality craftsmanship and luxury transportation.

Even though the vehicle has already been unveiled, Buick has been refraining from releasing pertinent information about the crossover SUV. Information that has yet to be released includes the model’s exterior and interior dimensions, as well as, price and powertrain information. Despite withholding so many details, the superstar car brand has shared that the Encore GX will come standard with the same safety features as other Buick models; these include automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning. The vehicle will also come equipped with a rear-camera mirror and surround-view monitor.

How it compares

The unveiling of this new Encore model has many Buick enthusiasts wondering what makes it so different than other Encore models already on the market.

In terms of how it looks on the outside, the new Encore GX carries some resemblance to the original, smaller Encore; however, it has been given a newer dose of Buick’s latest design language and has been said to look more like the Buick Regal or Enclave models.

On the inside, the design from the original Encore has been particularly influential in the Encore GX. Despite this heavy influence, some surfaces have been freshened up a bit to give a heightened feel of luxury.

High gear

While we already know of the standard safety amenities that will be included in the new Encore GX, Buick has not been quick to release other technical information about the vehicle. Buick has stated that real specifications about the vehicle and pricing information will not be made available until the Encore GX is released to automotive dealers in the United States, which is not supposed to happen until early 2020.

To all of our Buick fanatics out there: remember, patience is a virtue.

The perfect fit

Being first in class for both sophistication and comfort, this Buick model is perfect for drivers looking to accommodate their families, friends, or a full carpool. While the spirited, yet efficient, performance of the Encore GX will surely get your crew where they need to go, it does not stop there. This new vehicle is said to feature five more cubic feet of storage space than the original Encore models, making it a strong option for those in need of a larger cargo area for all of the essentials (and then some), and still want a compact SUV.

What are you waiting for? Contact your local Liberty Buick GMC dealer and to learn more about the release of the Buick Encore GX today!

-Morgan Evans

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INSIDERS BUYING GUIDE TO BUICK ENCORE AND BUICK ENVISION

INSIDERS BUYING GUIDE TO BUICK ENCORE AND BUICK ENVISION

This month we want to spotlight two great Buicks, the Envision and the Encore, and highlight some of their brilliant features, which you should consider. We will contrast the two to help you make an informed decision about which model of Buick’s line of crossover SUVs is best for you.

The Buick Envision

Doesn’t its name say it all? Envision is, of course, a pun to think about what you can envision for your family’s ease of transportation. It draws out ideas of what’s possible, what’s likely, when owning the New Buick Envision. Buick wants you to think of this as a can-do vehicle, an SUV with a positive attitude. It’s a supersized small luxury SUV, with bling and pizzazz.

The 2019 Buick Envision has been updated, in its design, and we think it’s something worth taking a look at. For all models and trim levels, this SUV has had its rear valance reworked along with its exhaust tip. It has a sleek look to it, now more than ever, and it really gives the Envision a refined sense of spirit. What sort of changes did Buick make, specifically? Let’s have a closer look:

First, there are two gasoline engine options for the Buick Envision, and the exhaust design depends on which engine you select. We are excited about the new look and style this renovated exhaust design carries.

Of the two engines offered, the first is the 2.5L I-4 LCV, naturally-aspirated, which is the base model engine for the Buick Envision. It features a single-outlet stainless steel exhaust, which is hidden from sight. Now tucked under the vehicle, the exhaust tip doesn’t show. That means a more sporty, stylish look. Also take note: the Envision has a metal-look valance now that replaced the black fascia treatment of previous models. The metal valance gives the Envision a more integrated look. Cleaner design, trendier feel—that’s what Buick has given us.

Its 2.5L inline four-cylinder engine gives you 197 horsepower with torque of 192 pound-feet. That’s a six-speed automatic transmission and is standard for the base, Preferred and Essence models. That’s enough horsepower to climb hills and pull a trailer along. It’s got the power and stamina you want for city driving or a cruise in the countryside.

The second option is the 2.0L 1-4 turbocharged LTG, the next level up. This model engine carries a dual exhaust treatment. With the 2019 model, the tips of the exhaust pipe are squared off, replacing the rounded tips seen on the 2017 and 2018 Envision models. If you opt for premium trim, then you get the metal-look lower valance as well, replacing the black version of it standard in previous models.

This option, the turbocharged 2.0L, is matched to the nine-speed automatic transmission (from GM) and comes with standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine delivers 252 horsepower with 295 pound-feet of torque—a powertrain worth its salt. This engine comes standard for both the Premium 1 and Premium 2 models of the 2019 Buick Envision.

Both engines have excellent gas mileage, averaging 29MPG highway and 22MPG city. And for a crossover SUV, we know those are good numbers. Moreover, it was ranked by US News and World Report as #14 in the Luxury Compact SUVs category, putting it next to the 2019 Infiniti QX50 and 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio (both sit at #12) and the 2019 Lincoln MKC (#15). That ranking carries a score of 7.9 out of 10, based on thirty-two specifications for evaluation. Translation: the 2019 Buick Envision keeps good company and can roll with the best of them, and it is far more affordable than other Luxury Compact SUVs—without sacrificing the bells and whistles you want in a compact SUV.

What do the experts say about it? US News and World Report gave it high marks for the following: spacious, supportive seats; good gas mileage; and user-friendly tech features. Though it fell down in some categories (less than nimble handling; its rivals have more up-scale interiors), US News found noteworthy some of its new features for the 2019 model. Those include: the nine-speed automatic transmission with turbo engine; new headlights and taillights; updates to existing tech features; and more torque for turbo engine. Those new features make certain that you need to give the 2019 Buick Envision a close, thorough look!

US News’ conclusions are pretty positive as well: “The Buick Envision is a pretty good SUV. It certainly delivers on some fronts…[and] it has a lower starting price than most of its class rivals…” The 2019 Buick Envision’s starting price is around $32,000 and with that pricing, it gets you into the luxury SUV class easily.

And what about Edmunds and its assessment of the 2019 Envision? They noted the quietness of the cabin at highway speeds, the comfortable seats and ride which the Envision sports, and they liked the four USB ports, as well as, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard features. They gave it a ranking of 7.2 out of 10 and named it their #9 Small SUV pick, beating out the Ford Escape in its top-ten rankings.

A few features we like on the 2019 Encore:

• It has intelligent all-wheel drive

• It offers a powerful wireless charging in a vertical charging pocket

• It comes with excellent safety features, like Surround Vision

• Its look has a higher level of refinement, from its exquisite grille to the sculpted rear profile

What we really love on the 2019 Envision is its trimmer, new look for the exhaust system. It says, “city slicker.” It says, “stylish and confident.” It says, “smooth and refined.” It cleans up the SUV’s exterior look and it features the profile of the overall design (rather than having the tail pipe sticking out and looking less classy).

And when you are rolling around Charlotte, driving up Providence Road or cruising over to NoDa for some unique cuisine, you want your vehicle to say something about you. You want it to convey a sense of style and refinement—that’s what the 2019 Buick Envision says about you, as you ride around Charlotte. So imagine rolling up to Southpark Mall for a shopping excursion in the 2019 Encore. See yourself riding in the sleek, modern design, as you pull into a parking spot and jump out for lunch and some browsing at Nordstrom. Come and test drive one today!

The Buick Encore

US News and World Report ranks the 2019 Buick Encore as—wait for it—#7 in Subcompact SUVs. That beats out the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Ford EcoSport, and the 2019 Toyota C-HR. That ranking of #7 was arrived at by examining over 46 pieces of research and data, and evaluating the Subcompact SUV across many rigorous standards.

When evaluating the 2019 Buick Encore, US News found it scored highly in the following categories: nice interior with lots of standard features; user-friendly infotainment system; nimble handling; and outstanding predicted reliability rating. Though it scored less well in the categories of its base engine’s powertrain or its pricing compared to its rivals, it did score for its reshuffled trim, which is new for 2019.

With drivetrains that can be either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and engine configurations sporting 138-153 horsepower, it’s definitely worth your consideration. And, with 24-26MPG in the city, and 29-31MPG on the highway, its fuel efficiency is definitely a selling point. In fact, US News calls its fuel efficiency estimates “above-average.” And one of US News’ concluding thoughts about the Buick 2019 Encore? “The Encore is one of the best subcompact SUVs you can buy.”

And Edmunds gave it good marks for the Encore’s hushed cabin at highway speeds, the generous standard tech and safety features it has, and its maneuverable size. They ranked it #10 for their X-Small SUV category, ranking among the leading ten subcompact SUVs on the market today.

And we think it deserves a closer look at some of its specs and features, so let’s see what Buick is up to with its 2019 Encore subcompact SUV. With ratings like 8.1/10 from US News and World Report or a 4.6/5 from Kelley Blue Book, its features deserve your attention.

Buick’s tagline for this subcompact SUV is a fitting one: “Sized to fit the way your life moves.” We agree, because if you want to get into the SUV vehicle category but don’t want an enormous vehicle to cope with, then this 2019 Buick Encore is just the right size. You get the look and feel, along with the nimble driving, of an SUV without the typical bulk of an SUV.

The base model for the Encore starts at $23,200 MSRP and its standard features include: LED-accented taillamps, a 1.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Engine, an enhanced 4.2” Driver Information Center, and also the ease of the keyless open and start system. The Essence, its top model, starts at $29,300 and these features are standard: leather-appointed seats, rear cross traffic alert, heated driver and front-passenger seats, and heated leather-wrapped steering wheel (what a great feature for winter!).

Conclusion

For those new to the SUV game, the Encore is definitely a great start and will give you a fresh take on driving. It’s nimble, affordable, and gives you a taste of luxury. It’s a good pick and we recommend a test drive to see what it’s all about.

But if you’re of the more fashionable taste and want into the luxury SUV game, then the 2019 Buick Envision is hands-down the best choice. You get some sleek new features, with its redefined fascia trim, you get an excellent powertrain, some great luxury features on the interior, and most of the bells and whistles without the higher price tag of its rivals.

We believe the 2019 Buick Envision has staying power. Though a new entry into the SUV market, having been introduced in 2016, “it marked a milestone for the American auto industry” says Car and Driver, in a recent review. They note that it “currently stands as [Buick’s] third-best selling model.” And one thing that summed up their review was the following: “Best of all, the added refinements come with a price reduction. Depending on the trim, buyers can save between $1400 and $2400 over previous models.” So you get a better, cleaner trim with more modern shaping, and it costs less than outdated styling on earlier models. That’s a win-win for you, the car buyer! And Car and Driver also made a bold claim about the 2019 Encore: “In fact, it just might be the vehicle that best embodies the Buick brand, completely without pretension or too many compromises.”

In Buick’s words, “Versatility has found its style”—the tagline Buick has rolled out with its newly updated Encore for 2019. And we agree. The 2019 Encore has style and it gives you a lot more, both under the hood and in the cabin, at a lower price point. You get luxury and affordability. That is a winning combo.

Pop over to Liberty Buick GMC located in Matthews, NC - Serving Charlotte NC - to test drive either the Encore or the sleek new Envision. We have experts ready to help.

Liberty Buick GMC Contributor,

Sam Nicolosi

Defy Convention with the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD

Are you in the market for a new heavy-duty truck? GMC has you covered from top to bottom with the new Sierra 2500HD. At first glance, the 2020 Sierra 2500HD—which is in its first year of a new body structure—is as impressive as they come. And once you get into the details of its capabilities and features, it doesn’t disappoint. In short, it’s powerful yet refined—sophisticated yet practical. This article will discuss the 2020 Sierra 2500HD’s remarkable towing performance, its beautiful and functional exterior and interior features, and the various trim levels and their pricing.

THE TOWING

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the new Sierra 2500 HD is its towing capabilities. Let’s dive into the details:

 

Trailering Capabilities

The Sierra 2500HD can tow up to 30,000 pounds, which is quite a jump from the 2019 models of 23,300 lbs. It’s clear that GMC focused on attracting customers who are looking to pull a trailer. This is the first year that the automobile manufacturer has assigned the Sierra HD models its own chief engineer and development program; in times past, their development was seen simply as an extension of the Sierra 1500. Jaclyn McQuaid, the chief engineer, noted that trailering was the focal point in the Sierra HD’s design process, pointing out that the 2020 models have “a beefier driveline and suspension, a stiffer frame, larger axles and propshafts, and an enhanced cooling system.” In other words, it’s built to be a towing juggernaut. 

The Powertrain 

Of course, no features will allow for impressive towing capacity like a truck’s powertrain, and the Sierra HD has it going on in that department. The available 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8 produces 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. While these are the same numbers as previous models, this engine has been designed for higher efficiency in the 2020 Sierra 2500HD. For instance, there is a bigger radiator and fan for extra cooling capacity, as well as, enhanced air induction. One of the most impressive aspects of the powertrain is the new Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, which is being offered for the first time in this line up of HD pickups. With closer gear spacing than ever before, the engine is able to consistently run at the perfect level, no matter the towing load or terrain. 

This is also the first year that GMC is offering a 6.6-liter engine that runs on gasoline in their HD trucks. The 6.6-Liter gasoline direct-injected V8 engine is exclusive to GMC, and it delivers 401 hp and 464 ft-lb of torque. This is an 11% and 22% increase in hp and torque, respectively, from the 6.0-liter gasoline engine of previous models. Customers who opt for the 6.6-liter gasoline V8 will get the 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission. 

Finally, the powertrain improvements for the 2020 Sierra 2500HD include bigger and stronger rear axles, which helps to provide maximum torque to the ground, as well as, better gross axle weight ratings (GAWR). The front axles are also bigger and stronger in general, and an 11.5-inch ring gear comes standard on all 2500HD models. 

Transparent Trailer View

Along with more power to pull a trailer, the new Sierra HD features one of the most exciting new technologies in the industry today: transparent trailer view. GMC calls it the ProGrade Trailering System, and it essentially renders the trailer invisible behind the truck. This has obvious advantages for trailer haulers from experts to novices. 

By using various combinations of 15 cameras, the trailering system is designed to simplify every aspect of trailering. Seeing through the trailer allows for easier and safer maneuvering in traffic, backing up and parking. The system even offers a close-up of the hitch, making coupling a breeze. Furthermore, the ProGrade Trailering System includes:

• Lights for the hitch area
• Automatic parking brake assistance
• Integrated trailer brake controller
• A mobile app with a departure checklist, tire pressure monitoring, theft notifications and many other features

Hauling Capabilities

GMC also worked to improve the 2020 Sierra HD’s hauling capabilities and to make loading and unloading cargo as practical as possible for customers. For one, it now leads its class in cargo- bed volume and offers 12 corner tie-downs, and you have the option of adding a 120-volt power outlet in the bed. The cargo bed railings are an inch lower than the 2019 Sierra HD models, which lends to an easier liftover. 

Additionally, the truck has steps on the sides of the bed and on the corners of the rear bumper—roughly the size of a work boot—so that customers can have better access to objects inside the bed. Moreover, higher trim levels of the Sierra HD showcase the new MultiPro six-function tailgate that was introduced by GMC on the 1500 models this year; however, the version of the tailgate found on the 2500 is designed specifically for the HD models.  

THE EXTERIOR

Now that you know the gist of the towing capabilities, let’s take a look at the exterior characteristics:

 

Body Construction 

2020 marks the beginning of a new era of body style for GMC pickups; overall, it’s larger and more aggressive than ever before. The contrast between the Sierra 1500 and 2500HD is more apparent than in previous years, as the latter now stands 2 inches taller and stretches 10 inches longer than its 2019 version. 

Additionally, the hood line is elevated, and the grill is an entirely different thing altogether. While GMC has received some criticism for the redesigned grill on the Sierra (as with the Chevrolet Silverado), there’s no question that it makes a statement: a bold, unapologetic statement with lots of chrome and character. The grill is massive, and it’s capped by a hood scoop that adds to the overall appeal of the truck. The hood scoop is also designed to assist the new cooling system that comes with the Duramax turbo-diesel engine. 

Another component that adds to the Sierra HD’s aggressive look is the LED lighting, which is everywhere. This includes headlights, taillights, roof marker lights and fog lights (available through an upgrade). Moreover, the roof has four yellow running lights, and each wheel-well flare has an orange side marker at the top.  

Colors

There are eight primary colors to choose from for the Sierra HD models:

• Summit White
• White Frost Tricoat
• Quicksilver Metallic
• Onyx Black
• Carbon Black Metallic
• Pacific Blue Metallic
• Dark Sky Metallic
• Red Quartz Tricoat

THE INTERIOR 

There’s more to the 2020 Sierra HD than it’s attractive and functional exterior; it’s also built to impress on the inside:

Roominess

Driver and passenger comfort is a big part of the Sierra HD’s appeal. GMC has stepped up their game in creating more room in the cabin. In fact, the 2500 crew cab models are now top of the class for front head and legroom. Also, there are three more inches of legroom in the rear seat than there were in previous models. If you’re one of the 90% of GMC customers who choose a crew cab body style, this extra room could prove critical in your riding experience—particularly on longer trips. 

Seats and Trim

The cabin in the Sierra HD models is built on the same construction as the Silverado. However, that’s where the similarities end. As with many other specs, GMC puts their unique touch on their cabin features, and the new Sierra HD is no exception. For starters, the seating profile is higher than in recent years, which provides increased visibility on the road and, perhaps, a greater sense of safety. While the base model is satisfyingly upscale, the most elaborate interior comes in the Denali edition, which sports large pebbled grain leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, and no truck will have identical-looking seats. Also, the trim on the Sierra HD Denali comes in authentic open-pore wood with dark aluminum decor. 

Technology 

You’ve read about the ProGrade Trailering System, which is intelligently integrated into the Sierra 2500HD’s computers. But that’s not all the impressive technology the truck offers. There are 15 cameras in total, which come in handy even when you’re not hauling a trailer. For instance, you can see an overview of the truck, inspect the cargo in the bed, and see along the wheels as you parallel park. 

Additionally, a coinciding mobile app called MyGMC offers several functions that assist with pulling a trailer and keeping the trailer in good condition (e.g., controlling temperature, monitoring tire pressure, checking trailer lights, controlling the integrated brake system, etc.). Furthermore, you can opt for a 15-inch head-up screen that displays important functions such as an odometer, an inclinometer, trailer info, and navigation instructions, among others. And let’s not forget about the optional Rear Camera Mirror and HD Surround Vision camera system. 

THE TRIMS AND PRICING

The 2020 Sierra 2500HD comes in five trim levels: The base model, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Prices for these trims, along with a plethora of configurations, differ as much as $30,000. 

 

Base Model, SLE, and SLT 

The base model Sierra 2500HD starts at $37,195 MSRP, which is the least expensive option we’ve seen for a GMC Heavy Duty truck in years. The Sierra 2500HD comes as a regular cab/long bed model, and it is basically GMC’s version of the Silverado Work Truck. The price goes up to $41,595 if you opt for a crew cab with a standard bed, and you can add a long bed for $200. 

The SLE is one step above, meaning it has a few niceties not included in the base model. Starting at $41,595 (regular cab/long bed), you can get a crew cab with a standard bed for $45,395. Again, adding a long bed to the crew cab model is just $200. The SLT is the Sierra 2500HD’s middle trim level, and it reflects both in price and features. It comes stocked with a double cab and standard bed for $52,195, and you can upgrade to a crew cab/standard bed for $53,995. 

AT4

This trim is all new to the GMC lineup of trucks. The AT4 was designed with off-roaders in mind. It comes with unique exterior and interior features (e.g., exclusive paint colors, dark chrome grille, and trim, jet black upholstery, etc.), as well as some practical upgrades that make it worthy of its all-terrain title. For instance, the AT4 is stocked with an off-road suspension, locking rear differential and skid plates. It also comes with an off-road mode you can select for the traction control system. Furthermore, it boasts a hill start assist and hill descent control. The AT4 comes only in the crew cab model, which starts at $59,295; it’s $200 to add a long bed. 

Denali

The Denali is the Sierra’s luxury trim and has been since 2001. Along with some of the interior perks mentioned previously, the Denali comes with an enlarged chrome grill and 20-inch chrome wheels, among other features. Limited to crew cab form, it starts at $65,295, with the option of adding the $200 long bed. 

If you’re looking for muscle and appeal in a truck, don’t settle for anything less than the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD. It has towing and hauling capabilities to compete with any pickup in its class, and its innovative trailering technology is second to none. And let’s not forget its bold, attractive and functional exterior and interior. Be sure to come out to Liberty for a test drive, and find the trim level that works best for you! 

-Alex Watson