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The 2019 GMC Sierra: more presence than ever

budds-2019-gmc-sierraDon’t let its size put you off. Yes, the new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 full-sized pickup is bigger and taller but you don’t need to be a football player to drive it. A host of features and gadgets ensure even the smallest adult can handle it with ease.

Easier access to the box

Having the most space in its class (1,784 liters for the short box,) is all very well, but only if you can reach in and lift stuff out. The steps in the rear bumper help, but what really makes a difference is the new MultiPro gate. Unlike every other tailgate, this has a second horizontal hinge and a panel on the liner side. These let the gate perform five additional functions:

  • Fold into a step that simplifies access.
  • Fold down when the gate is lowered so you can stand closer the to bed.
  • Retain/secure payloads with the primary load stop.
  • Support cargo with the inner load stop.
  • Fold up into a work surface. (Ideal for job sites.)

If you’re struggling to visualize these options our sales professionals will be happy to show them to you.

Great visibility

If you’re familiar with the last Sierra you’ll notice that in the 2019 you sit a little higher. If you’re not familiar, or maybe have never sat in a pickup truck, you’ll find the high seat position provides excellent visibility down the road and all around.

A suite of cameras further improves your ability to see what’s close by, cleverly combining their pictures into “Surround Vision”: a birds-eye view of the truck. There’s also a digital interior mirror that improves your view of what’s behind. This uses camera images to show what’s behind. Once you’re comfortable with it you’ll never want to go back to a conventional mirror.

While not actually helping you see better, the Heads Up Display unit is another visibility aid. By projecting crucial information like your speed onto the windshield it saves you from taking your eyes off the road.

Safety tech

Cameras and sensors also help avoid accidents. On the new Sierra you can get technologies like:

  • Side Blind Zone Alert
  • Pedestrian Detection
  • Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking

Appearance

budds-2019-gmc-sierra-twoMuscular, handsome, tall, and of course big. All good words for describing the new Sierra. This truck is no wallflower; it’s going to get noticed. There’s distinctive “C” shaped LED lighting at both ends and a massive grille. Wheel arches are slightly squared-off, (a look GMC has used for a while,) and a horizontal fold runs between them from front to rear. Overall, it’s workman-like without being aggressive.

Trims, styles, and powertrains

Details are still emerging, but we do know that the Sierra will be available in six trims: Sierra, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, and Denali. As before, there will also be three cab styles and three box lengths. Regular cab trucks will have an 8′ (2.43m) box, double cabs get a 6’6” (2m) box (and more rear legroom,) and crew cab models are available with either a 5’8” (1.7m) or a 6’6” box.

People who know their GMC trucks will notice that the Elevation and AT4 trims are new. Let’s take a closer look at those.

The Sierra Elevation comes in double cab format and with a choice of 2WD or 4WD. The standard engine is a 2.7L turbo good for 231kW (310hp) and 472Nm (348lb-ft.) A 5.3 L V8 is available as an option and there’s a Duramax diesel coming soon. Traction Select offers a range of modes for dealing with various types of terrain and an X31 off-road package enhances the truck’s capabilities on tracks and trails.

If you want to get into some serious off-roading though, look at the AT4 trim. Starting with a 50mm suspension lift and 18” all-terrain tires, this has 4WD as standard plus a two-speed transfer case, a locking rear differential, and skid plates. The 5.3L V8 is standard though buyers can opt for a 6.2L or the diesel.

Big but manageable

As the biggest dogs or horses are often the most friendly, so it goes with the 2019 Sierra 1500. It’s extremely easy to drive, and also one of the quietest and most comfortable trucks you can buy.

Yes, it needs a big parking space, but all the advanced tech makes it very easy to slot in there and once parked you’ll have no trouble retrieving your gear from the back. But don’t take our word for it—come on in to Budds’ and see for yourself.