2020 GMC Sierra vs. 2021 GMC Sierra

GMC has been manufacturing the Sierra since 1962 and at United Chevrolet Buick GMC, we are proud to be a part of the continued legacy. The 2021 model represents the third year in Sierra’s fourth generation and comes with quite a few upgrades, additions, and deletions from the 2020 model. Let’s take a closer look at what’s changed to help you decide which model year works best for you.

2021 GMC Sierra Trims

Image via Flickr by truckhardware

The 2021 GMC Sierra brings back all the trim levels from 2020: the Sierra, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Two minor changes took place. GMC removed the two-wheel-drive standard bed crew cab model from the lineup, and the SLT and AT4 trims no longer offer a double cab option. The AT4 and Denali trim now have a CarbonPro Edition with an industry-first carbon fiber composite used in a pickup bed. The CarbonPro Edition trims offer unique wheels that are up to 22 inches and Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires to go with exclusive exterior appearance packages.

Exterior Changes

GMC has added four new exterior paint colors: Ebony Twilight Metallic, Cayenne Red Tintcoat, Hunter Metallic, and Brownstone Metallic. To make room for the new colors, GMC removed the Deep Mahogany Metallic, Red Quartz Tintcoat, Smokey Quartz Metallic, and Carbon Black Metallic. The remaining colors include Onyx Black, Cardinal Red, Quicksilver Metallic, Satin Steel Metallic, Pacific Blue Metallic, Dark Sky Metallic, and Summit White.

The AT4 now features a high clearance step that power deploys when the doors open. The 2020 Sierra utilized a manual tailgate with lift assist, but every 2021 Sierra now comes with the MultiPro six-function tailgate. This new tailgate opens like the traditional tailgate. A load stop opens up from the primary gate to help keep cargo from sliding out. A portion of the inner gate can fold down from this position to give you better reach into the truck bed.

The load stop on the inner gate converts to a large step, allowing easy access into the bed. The step can hold up to 375 pounds. With the tailgate closed, the inner gate changes into a load stop to keep second-tier cargo from sliding out. Finally, the inner gate transforms into an elevated work surface. If you work your truck like most truck owners, this MultiPro Tailgate makes life so much easier than the 2020 version.

Another upgrade on the 2021 Sierra comes in the available MultiPro Audio System by Kicker. Integrated into the Sierra’s bed, this 100-watt exterior audio system features Bluetooth technology and a power source that doesn’t require the truck to run. If you love tailgating or just want some music while you work, this audio system has you covered. It comes standard on the CarbonPro Editions and is available on every trim.

Technology

You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability on every 2021 trim, so now you can sync your smart devices with your infotainment system. You can make calls, access navigation, stream your favorite music, and do even more hands-free with simple, intuitive voice commands. SiriusXM satellite radio now comes standard on the SLE and Elevation 2021 models.

Both model years come with a head-up display that projects critical driving data to the windshield above the steering wheel. The available 2021 head-up display measures 15 inches diagonally and delivers speed, tachometer, audio information, navigation instructions, fuel and safety alerts, phone information, and an off-road inclinometer.

ProGrade Trailering System

The 2021 models still use a 7- or 8-inch touch screen to operate all the infotainment features, including the upgraded in-vehicle trailering app. This trailering app allows you to customize up to five trailer profiles to monitor lighting, camera views, tire pressure, hitch type, and more. The system provides maintenance reminders, departure checklists, and mileage and fuel economy reporting. The ProGrade Trailering System comes standard on the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims, and you can add it to the SLE and Elevation models.

2021 GMC Sierra Interior

The 2021 AT4 features standard premium floor liners with removable carpet inserts that make cleanup easy. The 2020 AT4 and SLE trims offer a sunroof, but the 2021 models do not. In 2020 models, the 40/20/40 split-bench with covered armrest storage was only available on the 2.7-liter turbocharged engine trucks, but now comes standard on all the base models. You can upgrade the 2021 Elevation models to bucket seats. The 2020 models only offered bucket seats with the Elevation Convenience Package.

Mechanical

GMC continues to offer the same five engines in 2021. The 2.7-liter turbocharged engine and the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel Duramax engine have increased tow ratings over the 2020 model year. The power and torque ratings remain the same.

Option Packages

The SLE Value Package was an available upgrade on 2020 models but comes standard in 2021. The SLE Value package bundles the auto-locking rear differential system with the SLE Convenience Package and Trailering Package. The SLE Convenience Package features dual climate control, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, second-row charge-only USB ports, a rear window defogger, keyless entry and start, remote start capability, LED cargo lighting, and a heated steering wheel. The Trailering Package comes with a trailer hitch, 7-pin and 4-pin connectors, and a hitch guidance system.

The Elevation Value Package has also moved to the standard feature list for 2021, bundling similar packages like the SLE Value Package. Elevation crew cab models add a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a rear-seat storage package that offers a fold-up armrest, under-seat storage, and a 60/40 folding bench seat.

Now you can add the Off-Road and Protection Package to the SLE, Elevation, and SLT models that include a spray-on bed liner and all-weather floor liners. You get an off-road suspension system, hill descent control, skid plates, and a heavy-duty air filter with the Off-Road Package.

GMC now offers the Safety Confidence Package on the base Sierra models. This package features driver-assist technology like forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and front pedestrian braking.

Check Out the 2021 GMC Sierra at United Autos

When you compare the 2020 model year to the 2021 model year, you can see some significant changes and upgrades. At United Chevrolet Buick GMC, we understand what truck owners want. That’s why we have an expansive selection of 2021 and 2020 GMC Sierra trucks to choose from, covering all trim levels. We invite you to browse our inventory online or visit our dealership. One of our knowledgeable salespeople will show you the best features on both Sierra model years and let you take your favorites for a test drive. When you’ve decided on a vehicle, our Finance Department can help you get the best deal.