2018 GMC Sierra Denali
2018 GMC Sierra Denali
2018 GMC Sierra Denali
2018 GMC Sierra Denali
IT’S A BEST BUY BECAUSE:

Like the nearly identical Chevrolet Silverado, the Sierra is a capable, refined truck offering an impressive array of features.

BUT…

Ride comfort and interior ergonomics, while good, are a step behind those of the Ram 1500.

WORTH NOTING:

Full-time 4WD (rather than less-convenient part-time) is offered on most models. The available 6.2-liter V8 offers outstanding power.

WHAT IS IT?

GMC’s Sierra is a near clone of the Chevrolet Silverado, though it’s differentiated with unique styling, a slightly different equipment mix, and a slightly more upscale ambiance. Regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab body styles are offered, as are V6 and V8 engines and full-time 4WD.

WHAT’S NEW?

The Sierra itself sees no significant changes for 2018, though the mild-hybrid eAssist model is now available nationwide; it was previously offered only in California.

FUEL ECONOMY

In Consumer Guide testing, a GMC Sierra Denali crew cab equipped with the 6.2-liter V8 averaged 18.2 mpg in 65-percent highway driving. In a Chevrolet Silverado 2WD crew cab equipped with the 5.3-liter V8, we averaged 18.6 mpg in 60-percent highway driving. When equipped with the 6-speed transmission, the 5.3’s EPA rating is 16 city/23 highway with rear-wheel drive and 16/22 with 4-wheel drive. Choosing the 5.3’s available 8-speed transmission bumps the EPA numbers to 16/22 with 2WD and 15/20 with 4WD. The eAssist mild-hybrid 5.3 V8 is rated at 18 city/24 highway with 2WD and 16/21 with 4WD. The base 4.3-liter V6 is rated at 18/24 with RWD and 17/22 with 4WD. The 6.2-liter V8 is rated at 15/21 with RWD and 15/20 with 4WD. All engines can be run on regular-grade fuel, though GMC recommends premium for the 6.2 for best performance.

VALUE IN CLASS

The GMC Sierra stacks up well against class rivals, and—like its Chevrolet Silverado sibling—offers strong, refined engines, good on-road behavior, plenty of handy in-cabin storage, and an impressively quiet driving environment. Plus, the top-line Denali models add a healthy dose of luxury to the mix. Sierra lags the Ram 1500 in ride quality, but it’s a strong competitor in this class.

BASE PRICE RANGE $28,905 – $56,255
BODY STYLES Regular, Extended, And Crew Cab
AVAILABLE ENGINES 285-HP, 4.3-Liter V6; 355-HP, 5.3-Liter V8; 420-HP 6.2 Liter V8
DRIVE WHEELS Rear Or 4-Wheel Drive
BUILT IN USA
EPA FUEL-ECONOMY RANGE 15-24 MPG

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