2019 GMC Sierra 1500: Premium Truck Capability With Mixed Refinement
The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 represents a significant evolution for GM's premium pickup, sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Silverado but aiming for a more upscale market. After testing both the SLT and Denali trims in Newfoundland, we examine whether the Sierra justifies its premium positioning.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Key Improvements Over Previous Generation
- New fully boxed frame with mixed lightweight materials
- Six available powertrain combinations
- Industry-first CarbonPro carbon fiber bed
- Innovative MultiPro six-position tailgate
- Sharper steering and improved body control
Powertrain Performance
5.3L V8 (SLT)
355 HP / 383 lb-ft
8-speed automatic
EPA: 15/20/17 mpg (4WD)
6.2L V8 (Denali)
420 HP / 460 lb-ft
10-speed automatic
EPA: 14/18/16 mpg (4WD)
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Our testing revealed:
- The 5.3L V8 provides ample power for daily driving and light towing
- 6.2L V8 shines when loaded but offers minimal empty-truck advantage
- 10-speed transmission delivers seamless shifts
- Adaptive Ride Control (Denali) firms up handling but sacrifices comfort
Driving Strengths
- Excellent steering feel in Sport mode
- Confident braking performance
- Improved body control over bumps
- Surprisingly capable 5.3L engine
Driving Weaknesses
- Denali's stiffer ride vs SLT
- Noticeable road noise on coarse surfaces
- Minimal real-world benefit from 6.2L in unladen driving
- Adaptive suspension lacks MagneRide sophistication
Towing and Payload Capabilities
GMC took a practical approach to towing development:
- Max towing: 12,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Max payload: 2,470 lbs
- Optimized for typical 5,000-lb towing rather than max ratings
- Excellent trailer setup tools including camera system
Our 5,000-lb trailer test proved effortless with the 6.2L engine, though the 5.3L should handle moderate loads competently.
Interior: The Premium Letdown
Denali vs SLT Interior Comparison
Despite its $67,595 price tag, the Denali disappoints:
- Minimal upgrade over SLT's materials and design
- "Professional grade" leather feels durable but not luxurious
- Lacks the premium ambiance of Ram Limited or Ford Platinum
- Missing height-adjustable shoulder belts (previous-gen feature)
- Digital cluster and head-up display the main differentiators
Exclusive Sierra Features
MultiPro Tailgate
Six-position configurable tailgate with:
- Inner step
- Standing workstation
- Cargo stop
Standard on SLT, AT4, Denali
CarbonPro Bed
Carbon fiber inner bed walls:
- 28% lighter than steel
- Dent-resistant
- Corrosion-proof
$3,000 option on higher trims
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Trim Level Value Analysis
| Trim | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| SLT | $48,300 | Value-focused buyers needing premium features |
| AT4 | $53,800 | Off-road enthusiasts wanting luxury |
| Denali | $59,300 | Status-conscious buyers (despite shortcomings) |
