I had a 2020 Silverado 3500 regular cab dually with the 6.6 gas. I had it for more than a year. I never pulled in mountains, but I did pull a hill from a stop at the bottom with over 15k pounds without a problem. Fuel economy was as stated earlier.
I never felt that the 6 sp transmission impacted performance for me. I have also driven a 2021 3500 Crew with the Duramax. And yes, it did better.
Not sure what I will order after I tow my travel trailer next week to Iowa with my van. I expect that the comfort and trailering capabilities of the new trucks will convince me to place the order.