Is the new 2019 GMC Sierra simply a Chevy Silverado in different clothing? There is more to it than that. Here are the top five features that make the all-new 2019 Sierra 1500 unique from any other new truck, including the new Silverado.
Before we get to the unique features, let’s take a look at the bigger picture. The all-new Sierra 1500 will use the same power train choices as the 2019 Silverado. They are the next generation of the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines with start/stop and Dynamic Fuel Management that enables the truck to run on one to eight cylinders. This cylinder deactivation technology is also called Dynamic Skip Fire. There is still no word on power specifications or fuel economy.
The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel straight-six will also be available. GMC says the 6.2L V8 and the 3.0L diesel will be paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
GMC Sierra trucks will also have the Adaptive Ride Control suspension system that is unique to the Sierra.
Head-Up Display
The new Sierra will offer a large 3×7 inch multi-color head-up display (HUD) that projects key information about the truck onto the windshield in front of the drive: speed, navigation instructions, and more.
Rear Camera Mirror
The 2019 Sierra brings the rearview mirror camera to the pickup truck segment. The center-mounted mirror has two modes. First, it functions like any other rear view mirror, but a quick flip of a switch turns the mirror into a high resolution screen that shows a real-time view from the tailgate-mounted camera. This feature has been available of GM’s sedans and crossovers before, but it’s the first time it’s being applied to a truck. It’s a great addition to a truck because visibility is at a premium in the big truck with you are backing up or towing a trailer.
ProGrade Trailering System & App
How do you make the trailering experience easier and safer? GMC’s answer to this question is the new ProGrade Trailering System. How is it unique? First, the system offers many monitoring and checklist functions. This includes trailer tire pressure and temperature monitoring if your trailer is properly equipped and the additional connection is made between the truck and trailer. While hooking up to a trailer, there are hitch guidance, zoomed in hitch view, and automatic electric park brake assist. The optional side-view cameras on the truck can be paired with a trailer-mounted HD camera to improve visibility while backing a trailer. The system offers Trailer Theft Detection capability so that an owner can receive an alert via OnStar if the trailer has been detached without permission.
Many of the monitoring and checklist features are also available via the MyGMC app on compatible smartphones and devices.
CarbonPro Bed
The new Sierra 1500 Denali will offer a carbon fiber composite bed construction in addition to standard steel beds available on other Sierra trim levels. GMC says the new carbon fiber bed will offer best-in-class dent, scratch, and corrosion resistance. Only the inner panels of the bed are made out of carbon fiber material, but it saves 62 lbs when compared to a bed made out solely out of steel. Other trim levels of the new Sierra, including the SLT will continue to offer an all-steel bed, which offers 63 cu-ft of cargo volume for the “short box”.
The carbon fiber bed joins the aluminum hood, doors, and tailgate for a total 2019 Sierra weight savings of 360 lbs when compared to the previous generation of the truck.
MultiPro Tailgate
How does one improve on the good old truck tailgate? GMC is introducing a new design they call MultiPro. While the 2019 Chevy Silverado has a tailgate that has a power up and down feature, Sierra’s tailgate has an additional built-in step section that allows for six distinct functions, according to GMC. It can be used as a step, a seat (maximum capacity of 375 lbs), be used as a workstation, gain easier access to the cargo in the bed, be used to hold cargo from sliding, and more.
This new tailgate will come as standard equipment on Sierra 1500 SLT and Denali models.
The new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 will go on sale in the fall of 2018. Pricing and other details will be available closer to launch.
