2014 GMC Sierra: Finally Something New

The overhaul of GM’s full-size pickup trucks was a long time coming. In this incredibly important and competitive segment, a brand simply can’t afford to let its rivals get ahead. And yet, in recent years, GM seemed to have fallen a little behind, especially as Dodge snagged more and more of the market share with its RAM.

It’s true that developing pickups requires colossal and constant investments—just ask Toyota; the company has had a tough time keeping pace. As for GM, it was severely affected by the recent economic crisis and consequently had to scale back its ambitions, which explains in large part why it has not been able to follow the pack.

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The long-awaited overhaul

All that being said, GM is back in the game with an updated 2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra duo featuring improved style and new drivetrains. GM is big on fuel economy, as this is a major selling point in the pickup category. Three new EcoTec3 engines are on offer, and each is equipped with direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing. These technologies, combined with the use of lighter materials, make the GMC and Chevrolet less fuel hungry than the previous generation models. This is the main advantage the GM has over the competition.

The base engine is a V6 that produces 285 horsepower and 305 lbs.-ft. of torque, making it far superior to the old 195-horsepower V6. There’s no question that the base engine is now infinitely more interesting than before. Like the other mills, this engine is paired with an automatic six-speed transmission. Obviously, it’s more suited to light work as it can only tow 7,200 lbs. (3,265 kg). It may be the most fuel efficient of all three engines, but it’s not the most powerful. The mid-range engine, which is bound to be the most popular, is a 5.3-litre V8 that generates 355 horsepower. This is the kitten that purred under the hood of our test vehicle, a Sierra 1500 SLT. When paired with the MAX tow package, this engine can tow 11,500 lbs. (5,216 kg). This puts the Sierra on par with its fiercest rivals, including the F-150. The top-of-the-line engine is a 6.2-litre V8 that unleashes an incredible 420 horses and 450 lbs.-ft. of torque.

The Sierra is available in three cab sizes and box lengths, just like the Silverado. For the first time ever, the crew cab can be paired with a 6-foot 6-inch box (1,981 mm), which means that the GM vehicles come with the same combinations as the other players in the category. In this regard, no one can accuse the automaker of being behind the times anymore.

A more attractive Sierra

Since the new generation rolled in, we’ve had more frequent contact with the Chevrolet Sierra. And after spending some time aboard, we had to admit that it is more alluring, especially the front end. Overall, the vehicle looks a lot heftier, but that was achieved by pushing its nose back.

The hood is now made entirely out of aluminum and is crafted into the same style as the HD models, with two raised sections. Meanwhile, LED daytime running lights give it a more modern look. Oddly, the Sierra is nicer than the Chevrolet. They also improved the vehicle’s functionalities, including an integrated running board in the rear bumper and an EZ Lift tailgate that makes use of a torsion bar and damper to open slowly and effortlessly.

Noticeable changes have also been made to the vehicle’s interior, which was without a doubt the more dated aspect of the pickup. They’ve gone with a distinctly bold theme, and all the gauges and controls are now oversized. Big time! The dashboard includes just six gauges, all of which are easy and intuitive to use. In the middle, there’s a 4.2-inch screen (3.5-inch on the WT) that displays the vehicle’s data and systems. The centre portion also houses a touch screen for GM’s MyLink system, which allows you to manage many of the vehicle’s systems. A welcome touch of modernity! And finally, the vehicle earns extra points for having numerous storage compartments, a 12-Volt outlet and a USB port.

On the road

On the road, we noticed terrific soundproofing, The improvements were definitely worthwhile. The vehicle is silent, which is pretty impressive considering it’s a pickup. Plus, GM has always done a good job producing models with flexible handling and comfort. Even long-distance drives are pleasant, as the suspension is comfortable but provides enough support when it comes time to load up the vehicle. The 5.3-litre V8 offers enough power for the job, and it offers a rich sound during accelerations. The cylinder deactivation system is very effective; you can even slide into four-cylinder mode when the truck is really loaded down.

While the competition forces you to choose between two- or four-wheel drive, the Sierra comes with an Auto mode that is a little like all-wheel drive in that it automatically distributes torque as needed. This functionality maximizes the vehicle’s handling while improving its fuel efficiency – very interesting indeed!

GM has taken a big step in the right direction by updating its pickups, but the manufacturer will have to work hard if it wants to keep up in this race.