GMC sells about 20,000 Sierra full-size pickups every month, which is about a third as many Silverados as Chevrolet moves. But put the two brands together and they outsell the Ford F-150, the perennial best-selling vehicle in
Both the Silverado and Sierra are brand new from the tires up for 2007 and, while neither is likely to unseat the F-150 for single model sales, the collective advantage of the two GM products over the Ford may well grow, thanks to the redesign.
GMCs have always been GM’s “better” truck offering, compared to the Chevy, but it’s often hard to see where the differences are. Mechanically, there is no discernible difference in the new models, but the Sierra’s exterior styling is definitely its own.
I especially like the pronounced fenders and the wider stance of the redesigned model. The power bulges on the hood endow the Sierra with a muscular look up front and lead back to a windshield with a pronounced rake.
Style is very much a matter of personal tastes, of course, but I find the Silverado/Sierra look the most immediately handsome and inviting, compared to the all-business lines of the F-150, the Mack caricature Ram 1500, the studied aggressiveness of Nissan’s Titan and the all-new Tundra’s purposeful conservatism.
Inside my Sierra 1500 Extra Cab SLE1 tester was a passenger cabin that afforded excellent room for five adults and a host of convenience and comfort features. There are actually two distinct instrument panels, with the work-oriented edition featuring larger controls that make it easier for a gloved hand to manipulate.
My tester was equipped with the second, Yukon SUV-inspired interior approach that puts more emphasis on providing occupants with every conceivable feature needed to make the Sierra seem car-like.
Power was provided by the familiar 5.3 liter Vortec V-8 that produces 315 horsepower with active fuel management and flex fuel capability. The four-speed automatic transmission is the only available shifter. Expect a six-speed to appear soon on the GMC equipment list.
One of the two things that most impressed me about the Sierra was the way it handles bumps and potholes in everyday driving. Despite the presence of an off-road suspension package option, my tester provided an unexpectedly pleasant ride quality. I could easily drive this thing every day and always look forward to the experience.
The other most impressive aspect of the Sierra was the bottom-line on the sticker, which came to $35,835. The total includes GM’s excellent Stabilitrak, leather seat trim, adjustable power pedals, a super sound system and remote vehicle starting, just to name a few. This is a high-value proposition that truck buyers ought not miss.
General Motors
Full-size pickups
GMC Sierra
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