GMC doesn’t make wimpy cars – it makes rugged, dependable trucks. And the GMC Sierra is no exception. The Sierra nameplate has been attached to GMC trucks going back as far as 1972. It’s a title that conjures of images of tough, American-made iron.
HISTORY OF THE GMC SIERRA
Sierra started out as a trim level for GMC trucks back in 1972. It wasn’t until 1999 that GMC started calling their full-size truck Sierra. Sierra trucks have been offered in countless configurations over the years; single cab, crew cab, four-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive – the list is endless. Just as many engine options have been offered under the hood, from the 6.2L diesel 8-cylinder to the modern 5.3L gasoline 8-cylinder.
Second Generation Sierra (2007-2014)
Since the Sierra was just a trim level up until 1999, the second generation of the truck begins in 2007. This generation Sierra was more high-tech than any previous version before it. Engine options included a 4.8L 6-cylinder, 5.3L 8-cylinder, a 6.0L 8-cylinder and a 6.2L 8-cylinder. A four-speed automatic was fitted to all models, except for the Denali, which got a 6-speed automatic. Buyers had the choice of either rear-wheel drive or two-wheel drive.
Standard features for the 2007 model year included air-conditioning (extended and crew cab versions), a trip computer, OnStar, and tilt steering wheel. Standard safety features included Antilock brakes and stability control (on crew cabs).
In 2013, the Sierra remained virtually unchanged in anticipation of the redesigned 2014 model.
Third Generation Sierra (2014-present)
For the 2014 model year, the Sierra was completely redesigned. It got a more modern exterior along with a refurbished interior. The three available configurations were regular cab, extended cab and crew cab. The engine lineup became more efficient due to new technologies such as direct injection and cylinder deactivation. The 6-speed automatic was the only availed transmission. Buyers have the choice of either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
Standard features for the 2014 model year included 17-inch steel wheels, chrome bumpers and grille, air-conditioning, cruise control, power windows and door locks, a tilt steering wheel and a four-speaker sound system with a 4-inch color display and USB and auxiliary inputs. As far as safety features go, all Sierras got antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, OnStar, front and rear seat side airbags and side curtain airbags.
If you need a truck that can tackle anything, the GMC Sierra is your rig. For over 44 years, it’s been towing trailers and hauling hay bales across America, and there’s a good chance it will be doing it for 44 more.
