Introduction

General Motors is the current leader in heavy-duty pickup trucks. GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado heavy-duty trucks are more powerful and more comfortable than any heavy-duty trucks in history. They ride more smoothly and feel more refined than the current heavy-duty trucks from Ford and Dodge. Completely re-engineered and redesigned for 2001, the GMC Sierra line is mechanically nearly identical to the Chevy Silverado line. However, there are some key differences. The Sierras are more stylish. Positioned as "professional grade" trucks, the GMCs offer more features, more technology, and more luxury then the Chevys. These trucks can move mountains. GM says its 3500 series boasts the most power, the heftiest gross vehicle weight rating and the highest gross combined vehicle weight rating available.

Walkaround

GMC's Sierra is more stylish than Chevy's Silverado and we think it's more attractive. The Sierra HD shares key design features with the regular-duty models, but there are distinctions: Sierra HD looks taller, and it is, by two inches. It also looks wider, and it is with a wider track. Its broad-shouldered fender flares and muscular bumper give it an appearance GMC calls Professional Grade. For 2002, there's a bolder Sierra tailgate badge. GMC's center port grille has a chromed appearance and directs large quantities of air under the hood. One-piece wraparound composite headlamps give the Sierra a handsome, aerodynamic appearance. Overall, the body work is smoother and more fluid than previously. Coming soon is a redesigned 2003 Sierra with much bolder styling.

Interior Features

The front seats are comfortable and supportive. SLE is well-equipped with convenience features and nice cloth. SLT comes swathed in leather and feels luxurious, like an upscale Yukon XL. The Crew Cab offers roomy rear seats, comfortable for two adults, capable of three. Folding down the rear seats reveals a large, flat cargo area. This area is a godsend, whether hauling a big dog or anything you don't want exposed to the elements or other people. The seats are split 60/40 for maximum utility. The new 2002 Sierra Professional models feature a full-length, custom-designed console, extending from the instrument panel to the back of the front seats. The center console has a front compartment, providing concealed storage for a personal digital assistant, cell phone, and two auxiliary power points to charge them. It also provides a storage trail for smaller items, such as maps, gloves or CDs. It has an oversized Big Gulp cupholder and a second temperature controlled cupholder than can keep beverages hot or cold when the ignition is on. The center console accommodates a seven-quart capacity thermal electric cooler provided, which can keep drinks and food cold or warm. The cooler runs directly off the battery and provides power continuously even with the engine off. the center console can be easily converted to handle hanging file folders. Two power outlets ion the rear of the console are useful for charging battery packs for power tools. There's also a rear under-seat storage container the offers 2 cubic feet of space for storing tools like rotary hammers and saws. A smaller container holds fasteners and other smaller items. The console and under-seat storage can be locked.