2023 Jeep Gladiator vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, boasted a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While its exterior design was considered one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks, the interior had its shortcomings. The material quality, especially in top trims, didn't match up to competitors like Ram and Ford. The cabin, though not cramped, wasn't as spacious as the Ram 1500 and Ford Super Duty. The Sierra 2500HD was available in five trim levels, each offering a distinct look and feel, with the AT4 trim focusing on off-road enthusiasts. The AT4 featured black chrome accents, C-shaped LED lighting, and a rugged interior with Jet Black and Kalahari upholstery, making it a handsome luxury off-roader.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator saw minimal changes, with a new High Velocity Yellow paint colour and added standard equipment for the Willys model. The Canadian lineup included six trims, with the Mojave trim designed for high-speed desert driving. The Mojave featured Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and high-clearance fender flares. Inside, the Gladiator resembled a Wrangler, with easy-to-clean plastic and rubber materials. The interior had orange air vent surrounds and contrast stitching, adding a sense of quality. Despite its basic nature, the Gladiator offered unique features like removable tops and doors, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a 6.6-litre V8 engine, offering 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. It had a maximum payload capacity of 1,637 kilograms and a towing capacity of 8,391 kilograms. While not the most powerful in its class, the Sierra's Duramax diesel engine and Allison 10-speed automatic transmission provided abundant power. The AT4 trim excelled in off-roading, with features like an automatic-locking rear differential, a two-speed transfer case, and all-terrain tires. The Sierra handled off-road courses with ease, though it experienced some steering column vibration on rough terrain.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator offered two engine choices: a 3.6-litre V6 with 285 horsepower and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower. The Mojave trim, equipped with the gas V6 and Command-Trac 4WD, averaged 13.6 L/100 km in combined driving. The Gladiator excelled in off-road performance, with Fox shocks providing a smooth ride over rough terrain. However, it was loud inside, with engine and wind noise being constant companions. The Mojave's suspension made it enjoyable to drive in urban settings, but its steering precision was lacking on highways and narrow roads.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations and two pickup bed lengths, accommodating up to six passengers. The interior provided ample space, with abundant headroom, legroom, and storage options. The AT4 package added extra lift, making entry a bit challenging, but side steps and assist handles aided access. The Sierra featured a wide centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments. The MultiPro tailgate offered six functions for improved cargo access, and power outlets were conveniently located in the cabin and bed.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator's crew cab had narrow rear doors, making entry and exit challenging. The manually adjustable driver's seat required regular readjustment, and heated seats and steering wheel were optional. The rear seats offered good legroom and air conditioning vents, but taller passengers might find the plastic seatback panels uncomfortable. The Gladiator's cargo box was shallow, but features like a spray-in bedliner, tonneau cover, and Trail Rail Management System enhanced utility. A portable Bluetooth speaker and best-in-class payload capacity added to its appeal.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems, with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on SLT and above, with navigation available on higher trims. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, though the voice-recognition system had some quirks. The Sierra's 15 camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, made towing and rear visibility easier.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 4, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. An 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot was available. The Gladiator's voice recognition system was less reliable, but additional tech included passive keyless entry and a dual-zone climate control system with an air filter.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, helping parents monitor their teen's driving habits. Due to its high GVWR, the Sierra wasn't rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator had limited standard safety features, with optional packages adding blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Gladiator earned a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA and a four-star frontal-impact protection rating. IIHS rated its headlights as Marginal.