2019 GMC Sierra Reaches Even Higher

In case you haven’t been paying attention, pickup trucks are no longer purely utilitarian vehicles used for hauling, towing, working, and plowing. They’re now doubling as luxury cars, carrying a great deal of status and comfort along with a hefty price tag as is evidenced by the 2017 GMC Sierra Denali HD we drove last year.

When Chevrolet introduced the 2019 Silverado back in December, we knew a new Sierra would not be far behind. What we didn’t know was how different it would be from its GM sibling, not just in exterior styling and and even more luxurious interior, but three key functional areas that elevate GMC to a higher level of utility.

The first is the new MultiPro tailgate. A marvel of engineering that would make Rube Goldberg proud, this two piece tailgate folds in more ways than a side show contortionist. With the main tailgate up, a smaller, 50-inch wide section of the tailgate folds open creating a high table or platform for stacking a second tier of items in the bed. A panel flips up and back from the small gate to prevent any items from shifting to the rear. With the main tailgate down, the small gate can lower, creating a cutout that makes it easier to load the box. You can also flip down the panel so it becomes a step rated to 350 pounds, making it easier to step up into the box. This video from GMC does a nice job of demonstrating how it works.

The 2019 Sierra will also debut another industry first, an available carbon fiber composite box. This optional item is promised to be virtually indestructible and, of course, rustproof. It will nearly 100 pounds lighter than a traditional steel bed and won’t need a drop in or spray on bedliner to prevent nicks and scratches. While GMC hasn’t announced what the extra cost will be for the carbon fiber box, we’re pretty sure it won’t be cheap given carbon fiber packages on other cars like the Corvette can add $3,000 to the cost of the vehicle.

Finally, trailering with the Sierra will be easier thanks to what they call the ProGrade Trailering System with Trailering App. This system includes cameras with guides to make backing up to the trailer easier and more precise. Once you’ve hooked up the trailer, you can test the tail, turn and brake lights using the app on your phone, so you don’t need someone else in the truck to activate the lights. In addition, there are several monitoring functions that include maintenance, tire pressure and tire temperature to keep you safe as you tow your trailer down the road.

The new Sierra will also have three engine options, updated 5.3L and 6.2L V8 gas engines and an all-new 3.0L inline 6-cylinder diesel engine. No power ratings were given yet, but as soon as we drive the new Sierra later this year, we’ll give you all the details and our impressions of its ride and capabilities. The 2019 Sierra Denali and SLT will hit showrooms this fall.