For the fourth generation of the Sierra, GMC worked hard to further distinguish it from the Silverado. Due for launch in this fall, the Sierra retains its premium status with a massive chrome grille with large LED headlights. There are five trim levels expected to go on sale, with the SLT and Denali trims at the top. Last year, GMC sold 217,943 units of the Sierra, compared to its platform mate which sold 585,864 units in the form of the Silverado. Ford however, still leads the full-size truck segment with 896,764 F-series trucks sold in 2017. Will this new generation be enough to change the standings, we will know next year, but for now here are some interesting things about the truck.
Engines
For now, three engines are expected to be available at launch. The Sierra will receive updated versions of the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V-8 engines with start-stop technology and Dynamic Fuel Management; also known as cylinder deactivation. All new for this generation, a 3.0 liter I-6 diesel engine also be available. The 6.2 liter and the diesel engine will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission co-developed with Ford and the 5.3 liter V-8 is expected to be available with an 8-speed automatic.
Tailgate and Bed
The new optional MultiPro tailgate has 6 different positions users can set it to. Combinations of steps, load stops, half-tailgates, and work surfaces create the different positions. Additionally, the tailgate drops at the push of a button from the key fob and features a grab handle for easy access.
The optional bed offered is made of a carbon fiber composite material mostly only found in exotic vehicles that resists dents and scratches better than any competitors. The bed is claimed to be 62 pounds lighter than before as well.
Convenience Features
Like almost every new vehicle these days, the GMC Sierra will offer driver aids such as Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Warning, and Front Pedestrian Braking. Infotainment duties are taken care of by an 8-inch center screen that supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto and can function as a birds eye view monitor for tight areas and parking. Optionally, one can also opt for a 3x7 inch Heads-Up-Display for driver information.
Luxuries
The high-end Denali trim level will offer hand-stitched natural pebble leather with real open-pore wood or dark-finish aluminum. Also, for someone asking why this is in a pickup-truck, the Denali and SLT luxury versions make up 87% of GMC's crew cab sales.
The GMC Sierra is expected to go on sale this fall, starting with the SLT and Denali trims.
Pictures: gmc.com, gmauthority.com