Bottom line
From bounce houses to fire pits, every good party needs a focal point. The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 has got more than one. In fact, there are enough upgrades here to declare this version the best yet of the all-truck brand’s bread-and-butter pickups.
Topping its list of improvements is an interior with three inches of additional rear-seat legroom for partygoers, compared with the outgoing model. The attractive space can also be filled with nifty bells and whistles, including the available digital rearview mirror that uses a camera mounted above the bed to give the driver a clear view out the back even with a wall of passenger noggins in the way.
When it’s time to get down to business, the new Sierra’s available MultiPro six-position tailgate is clearly the truck’s most useful feature. With an extra horizontal hinge in the middle and a separate panel that flips down to create a wide bed step, it is a truly handy innovation.
Add a four-wheel-drive off-road-oriented AT4 package (including a two-inch suspension lift, special shocks, a locking rear differential, skid plates and more), and you have a truck that will deliver the party wherever you choose.
Strengths
- MultiPro tailgate/bed step
- Available multicolor head-up display
- New roomier back seat
Weaknesses
- No adaptive cruise control
- Optional 6.2-liter V8 is thirsty/overkill for most buyers.
Pricing
- Base price: $37,495
- As tested: $63,685
Safety
- NHTSA: Overall: 4 Stars; Front: 3 Stars; Side: 5 Stars (highest rating).
- IIHS: Small Overlap Front/Driver’s Side: Good (highest rating); Small Overlap Front /Passenger Side: Marginal (next to lowest rating)/Moderate Overlap Front: Good; Side: Good.
MPG
- 15/19 (6.2L V8; 4WD)
- 17/24 (5.3L V8; RWD)
- 20/23 (2.7L I4; RWD)
Interesting Technology
Available trailer cameras in outside mirrors minimize blind spots
