GMC Unveils All-New, Next-Generation 2019 Sierra
GMC have introduced the completely redesigned 2019 Sierra Denali and SLT with the hopes of taking the truck to the next level with a bold new design and segment-leading technologies. We will get to those new technologies in a minute but first let’s talk about what has changed design-wise.
Starting with the exterior, the Sierra Denali debuts a new GMG design which boasts a larger, upright grille, a taller hood and a bolder C-shaped lighting signature design. The truck is larger than the previous version by just about every dimension with the wheels being pushed closer to the corners with larger diameter tires. The Denali will feature available 22-in. Ultra-Bright wheels while the SLT model will offer its own 22-in. dark aluminum wheels with chrome accents.
Inside of the new Sierra carries with it the sense of luxury that has come to be known from the GMC brand and offers all-new technologies such as a Trailering App and a segment-first Head-Up display. On the Sierra Denali, exclusive materials are being used, including premium leather-appointed seating and authentic open-pore wood trim which helps bring the truck to an even higher level of refinement. Interior storage space in a pickup is also usually very highly valued and the new Sierra does not disappoint with the rear seat backs opening to reveal rectangular storage spaces that are large enough to stow away things like laptops, tie down straps, or just about anything that will fit.
Engine offerings for the new Sierra will include new versions of the 6.2L and 5.3L V8 engines and an all-new 3.0L inline-six turbo diesel engine which is par for the course when you consider RAM’s EcoDiesel and Ford’s new Power Stroke in the F-150. The V8 engines will both feature stop/start technology and new Dynamic Fuel Management which allow it to operate on one to eight cylinders depending on the current demand. Not a lot is yet known about the new turbo-diesel offering other than, like the 6.2L V8, it will be paired to a 10-speed transmission.
The Sierra Denali will feature an exclusive Adaptive Ride Control suspension system which employs sophisticated sensors to monitor road conditions and chassis responses in real time which enables the dampers to adjust every 2 milliseconds.
Now, on to the aforementioned segment or industry-first features starting with the Industry-first MultiPro Tailgate. The innovative new tailgate is standard on both the SLT and Denali models and offers six unique functions and positions, offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation mode and easier access to items in the box. The tailgate also employs a step entry and egress mode that offers both step and seated functionality with a weight limit of 375 pounds. Sticking with the truck bed, later in the model year the 2019 Sierra Denali will offer an industry-first carbon-fibre box called the CarbonPro which was designed to increase the durability, efficiency and functionality of the truck. It replaces the standard steel inner panels with a lightweight carbon-fibre composite that offers incredible dent, scratch and corrosion resistance. The box weighs in a whole 62 pounds lighter than the steel version which works in partnership with aluminum door handles, hood and tailgate to shave up to 360 pounds from the current model.
The new ProGrade Trailering System comes standard on the Denali and SLT models and features a Trailer App that offers a pre-departure checklist, maintenance reminders, trailer light test, trailer electrical diagnostics and trailer tire pressure and temperature monitoring. In addition, the Sierra will also offer Hitch Guidance with Hitch View and Auto Electric Park Brake to help with perfect positioning when hitching.
In addition to the segment-first multi-colour head-up display, the new Sierra will also feature a new GMC infotainment system and a Rear Camera Mirror which is another segment first that offers an optimized camera view that can help the driver view around vision obstructions like cargo or passengers.
Finally, the 2019 Sierra will of course come with a full range of available advanced safety features including Side Blind Zone Alert, Pedestrian Detection and Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking. The truck is expected to go on sale this fall with additional details emerging as we get closer.
